A clear, practical guide for first-time users to securely log in, connect a Ledger hardware wallet, and start managing crypto with Ledger Live.
Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile application for managing cryptocurrency holdings stored on Ledger hardware wallets. This guide walks you through the login process, device connection, initial setup, basic actions (send, receive, add account), and essential security practices. Whether you are new to hardware wallets or returning to refresh your setup, these steps will help you get started confidently.
Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website to avoid fake apps. Choose the appropriate version for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux) or install the mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Run the installer, follow on-screen prompts and open Ledger Live. On first launch you’ll be asked whether you already own a Ledger device and whether you want to create a new device or restore an existing one. Select the appropriate option for your situation.
Use the USB cable provided with your Ledger device. For Ledger Nano S or Nano S Plus, connect and unlock; for Ledger Nano X you can use USB or Bluetooth (mobile). The device screen will confirm the connection and show “Welcome” or a similar message when connected correctly.
Important distinction: Ledger Live itself does not store private keys. Logging in to Ledger Live is a local application action (you can set an app password), while the actual cryptographic signing and private key protection happen on your Ledger hardware device. To perform transactions you must physically confirm them on-device.
If creating a new device: choose a secure PIN, then write down the 24-word recovery phrase exactly in order on the card provided. If restoring: select the restore option and input your recovery phrase when instructed. NEVER share your recovery phrase with anyone or enter it on a website or app other than the device itself.
Inside Ledger Live, open the Manager tab to install cryptocurrency-specific apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) on your device. After installing, go to Accounts → Add account, choose the currency and follow the prompts to add your first account. Ledger Live fetches account balances from the network but the private keys remain on your device.
To receive funds, click Receive in Ledger Live, choose the account, and request an address. Always verify the address shown in Ledger Live against the address displayed on your Ledger device screen — they must match. This step prevents desktop malware from substituting an attacker address.
To send funds, create a transaction in Ledger Live and then confirm it on your Ledger device. Confirming the amount and recipient on-device ensures that malicious software on your computer cannot silently change transaction details.
Ledger Live lets you set an app password (local to the app) and configure auto-lock. Use a strong password and enable auto-lock to protect access to the application if your computer is shared or stolen.
Ledger regularly updates Ledger Live and the firmware for devices. Always apply official updates through Ledger Live or firmware update tools provided by Ledger. Do not download firmware files from unknown sources.
Close any running instances and relaunch. If problems persist, reinstall Ledger Live after downloading from the official site. Check OS compatibility and permissions; on macOS you may need to allow the app in Security & Privacy settings.
Try a different USB cable or port. Ensure the device screen shows a welcome or unlocked state. Restart your computer and device. For mobile Bluetooth issues, toggle Bluetooth and pair through the Ledger Live mobile app.
Ledger Live reads balances from the network using public node providers. If an account appears empty, check for pending transactions or add the correct account derivation path. Reach out to Ledger Support only after verifying you control the correct recovery phrase and addresses.