How to Set Up & Use Ledger Live

If you’ve recently purchased a Ledger hardware wallet, congratulations! You’re now one step closer to taking full control of your digital assets. Ledger Live is the official app designed to manage your wallet, track your portfolio, and make secure transactions — all in one intuitive dashboard.

1. What is Ledger Live?

Ledger Live is a secure desktop and mobile application developed by Ledger. It acts as the user interface for your hardware wallet, allowing you to manage over 5,500 cryptocurrencies safely. The app brings together everything: wallet setup, portfolio tracking, buying, selling, swapping, and staking — all while keeping your private keys offline.

2. Getting Started: What You'll Need

• Your Ledger Nano S Plus or Nano X
• A laptop or smartphone
• Internet connection
• USB cable or Bluetooth (Nano X only)
• A calm space to write down your recovery phrase securely

3. Downloading and Installing Ledger Live

Start by downloading Ledger Live from the official Ledger website. It’s available for Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android. After installation, launch the app and choose "Get Started."

4. Set Up Your Device

When prompted, select “Set up a new device.” You’ll be guided through generating your 24-word recovery phrase on your Ledger device. Write this phrase down on the recovery sheet provided in the box. Never share this with anyone. It is the only way to recover your assets if the device is lost or damaged.

5. Configure Ledger Live

Once your device is initialized, you’ll create a password for Ledger Live. This adds an extra layer of security. Next, enable “Genuine Check” to verify that your Ledger is authentic. Once validated, you’re ready to manage your crypto.

6. Install Apps & Add Accounts

Each cryptocurrency requires a dedicated app on your Ledger. For example, to manage Ethereum, you need to install the Ethereum app. Go to the “Manager” tab in Ledger Live and install the apps you need.

After installing apps, go to “Accounts” and add the coins you want to manage. This links your device and Ledger Live so you can monitor balances and send/receive funds.

7. Make Your First Transaction

To receive crypto, click “Receive,” choose the correct account, and confirm the address on your device screen. To send, click “Send,” enter the recipient address and amount, then approve on your device. Always double-check every transaction directly on the Ledger screen before confirming.

8. Use Additional Features

• Portfolio: Track the value of your holdings in real-time.
• Swap: Exchange crypto assets directly from Ledger Live.
• Stake: Earn passive rewards by staking coins like ETH, DOT, or SOL.
• Buy/Sell: Buy crypto through integrated partners within the app.

9. Stay Secure Always

Ledger devices are built with advanced security in mind, but you must follow best practices:

• Never share your 24-word recovery phrase.
• Always update your Ledger Live and firmware.
• Use strong passwords and 2FA wherever possible.
• Buy Ledger devices only from official sources.

10. Final Thoughts

Using Ledger Live with a Ledger device offers unmatched peace of mind in the crypto world. Whether you're holding long-term, trading, or staking — you control your funds. This setup ensures that your private keys never leave your device, keeping your assets safe from hackers.