1. Download Ledger Live App
Start by navigating to the official Ledger website to download the Ledger Live app. Choose the desktop version that matches your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux) or the mobile app for iOS and Android.
Important: Always download Ledger Live only from the official website (ledger.com/ledger-live) to avoid fake or malicious software.
2. Installation Process
Once the download is complete, run the installer file and follow the on-screen instructions:
- On Windows, follow the setup wizard and allow administrator permissions if prompted.
- On macOS, drag the Ledger Live app to your Applications folder.
- On Linux, install via your package manager or terminal as per instructions.
After installation, launch the Ledger Live app. You’ll be greeted with a welcome screen to begin your setup.
3. Initial Setup and Configuration
On launching Ledger Live for the first time, choose one of the following options depending on your situation:
- Set up as a new device: For users who have a brand-new Ledger hardware wallet.
- Restore from recovery phrase: If you already have a Ledger wallet or recovery phrase and want to sync your data.
- Use Ledger Live without hardware wallet: For portfolio tracking only, without transaction capability.
Follow the guided prompts to configure your device, including setting a secure PIN directly on your Ledger hardware wallet and safely writing down your 24-word recovery phrase on the provided recovery sheet. Never save your recovery phrase digitally or share it.
4. Sync Ledger Live with Your Hardware Wallet
Connect your Ledger device using a USB cable or Bluetooth (depending on the device model). Ledger Live will perform a genuine check to verify your hardware wallet’s authenticity.
Next, install the cryptocurrency apps on your Ledger device through Ledger Live. Each app supports managing a specific coin or token (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
Add accounts within Ledger Live for the cryptocurrencies you hold or wish to manage. Ledger Live syncs these accounts securely to give you real-time balance updates and portfolio insights.
5. Essential Security Practices
- Always verify the URL when downloading Ledger Live and never click on suspicious links or emails.
- Keep your Ledger hardware wallet's firmware up to date with Ledger Live updates.
- Never share your recovery phrase or PIN with anyone.
- Use a strong, unique PIN on your hardware wallet that is not easy to guess.
- For enhanced protection, enable a passphrase (extra 25th word) to create hidden wallets.
- Regularly backup your recovery phrase and store it securely offline.
- Confirm all transaction details physically on your Ledger device before approval.
6. Managing Your Portfolio
Ledger Live allows you to buy, sell, trade, swap, and stake supported cryptocurrencies seamlessly. Utilize portfolio tracking tools, price alerts, and transaction history to stay fully informed and control your investments.
Explore connecting Ledger Live with decentralized finance (DeFi) apps and NFT marketplaces securely—all while your private keys stay offline.
Whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, Ledger Live’s user-friendly interface ensures a smooth experience managing your digital assets.