Getting ready — prerequisites (H2)
What you need before you begin (H3)
- Ledger hardware device (e.g., Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, Stax).
- Computer or mobile device with internet access.
- USB cable or Bluetooth (for supported devices).
- Pen & paper for the recovery phrase (never digital storage).
Important safety reminder (H3)
Never share your recovery phrase (seed). Ledger support will never ask for your seed. Download Ledger Live only from the official Ledger site or recognized app stores.
Download & Install Ledger Live (H2)
Step 1 — Download (H3)
Open your browser and visit the official Ledger Live download page. Choose the correct operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, or iOS) and download the installer.
Step 2 — Install (H3)
Run the installer and follow on-screen instructions. On macOS, drag the app into Applications. On Linux use the provided AppImage or package. For mobile, use the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Tip (H4)
Verify the digital signatures if you want an additional layer of assurance (Ledger publishes signatures for installers).
Initial Launch & Login (H2)
Open Ledger Live (H3)
On first launch, Ledger Live shows a welcome screen with Get started. Choose whether you are setting up a new device or restoring an existing device using your recovery phrase.
Connect and unlock your Ledger device (H3)
Connect the Ledger device to your computer or mobile, unlock with your PIN, and follow interactive setup steps in Ledger Live. If you set up as a new device, Ledger Live will guide you to generate a recovery phrase and confirm it on the device.
Security (H4)
Do not enter your recovery phrase into any app or website. If any prompt asks for your seed phrase, treat it as a scam and disconnect immediately.
Adding Accounts & Managing Assets (H2)
Add an account (H3)
From the Ledger Live dashboard: App > Manager (or Accounts) → Install the crypto app for the chain on your Ledger device, then choose Add account and follow prompts to sync balances.
Send & receive (H3)
To receive: generate a receive address in Ledger Live and verify it on your device screen. To send: create a transaction in Ledger Live, then confirm details on the Ledger device to sign the transaction offline.
Apps & Firmware (H4)
Keep Ledger Live and your device firmware up to date. Use Ledger Live's Manager to install/uninstall apps and to update firmware when Ledger releases trusted updates.
Security Best Practices (H2)
Essential rules (H3)
- Only download Ledger Live from ledger.com or official app stores.
- Never disclose your recovery phrase or enter it online.
- Use a strong PIN and store the recovery phrase offline (paper/metal backup).
- Be cautious of fake websites, phishing emails, and unofficial installers.
Recognizing scams (H3)
Fake apps and modified installers can attempt to trick you into revealing the seed — if anything asks for your recovery phrase, it's a scam.
Troubleshooting & Support (H2)
Common issues (H3)
- Device not recognized — check cable and drivers.
- App not opening — reinstall Ledger Live from official download.
- Sync errors — ensure Ledger Live is updated and the device is unlocked.
Need help? (H3)
Use Ledger's official support & knowledge base for step-by-step troubleshooting and device-specific guides.
Resources — Official Links (H2)
Below are authoritative Ledger resources for downloads, support, docs, and learning.