Step 1 — Download & Install
Where to get Ledger Live
Always download Ledger Live from Ledger's official pages to avoid malicious copies. See the official download & install guide in the links section.
Quick install
- Visit the official Ledger Live page and choose your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux) or install the mobile app.
- Run the installer and follow on‑screen prompts.
- Open Ledger Live and choose Get started to begin the setup wizard.
Step 2 — Initialize your Ledger device
Using a new device
If you have a brand new Ledger (Nano S Plus, Nano X, etc.), follow the on‑device prompts to create a PIN and generate a recovery phrase. Record your recovery phrase on the supplied card and store it offline and secure.
Recovering an existing wallet
If you already have a recovery phrase from another device, choose Recover during device setup and enter your phrase carefully.
Step 3 — Pair & Login to Ledger Live
Connect your device
- Connect the Ledger device via USB (or Bluetooth for Nano X) to the computer or mobile device.
- Open Ledger Live and go through the onboarding steps. Ledger Live will request you confirm actions on the device.
- Ledger Live supports an app-based login flow — you don't enter your seed into Ledger Live; instead operations are approved on the device for security.
Logging in
Ledger Live uses a local profile; set a password if prompted to protect the app UI (this is different from your device PIN). The hardware device remains the trust anchor — every transaction must be approved on the Ledger device.
Security best practices
Protect your recovery phrase
- Never store your recovery phrase digitally or share it with anyone.
- Use the original recovery card or a steel backup product for long‑term storage.
- Beware of phishing sites — always confirm the URL begins with
https://and matches Ledger's official domain.
Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated
Regular updates fix security issues and add features. Use Ledger Live to check for firmware updates and only install updates when connected to your real Ledger device. Follow the official instructions if an update fails.
Troubleshooting & Tips
Common issues
- Device not detected: try a different USB cable or port, ensure Ledger Live has the necessary permissions.
- App not available: install the required crypto app on your device using Ledger Live's Manager.
- Firmware update error: follow Ledger's recovery steps in support articles before retrying.
When to contact support
If you're unsure or suspect compromise, consult Ledger's official support before sharing any sensitive details. Ledger support can guide you through recovery steps safely.
FAQ (short)
Does Ledger Live hold my keys?
No — private keys remain on your Ledger device. Ledger Live is a management interface; signing always occurs on the hardware device.
Can I use Ledger Live on multiple computers?
Yes. You can install Ledger Live on multiple machines and pair the same Ledger device; just ensure each environment is secure.