Ledger® Live: Download and Getting Started Guide

Ledger® Live is the official application for managing cryptocurrencies with your Ledger hardware wallet. Whether you're using the Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X, this software acts as your control center, allowing you to send, receive, buy, sell, and stake digital assets with high levels of security. Getting started with Ledger® Live is a straightforward process designed to ensure that even users new to crypto can navigate it with confidence.

This guide walks through everything you need to know to download Ledger® Live, install it correctly, set up your Ledger device, and begin managing your crypto assets securely.

What Is Ledger® Live?

Ledger® Live is a desktop and mobile application that connects with your Ledger hardware wallet to enable secure management of your crypto portfolio. The platform supports a wide variety of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and many ERC-20 tokens. In addition to basic transaction functions, it also supports staking, NFT viewing, DeFi integration, and more.

The key advantage of using Ledger® Live in conjunction with your hardware wallet is that your private keys never leave your Ledger device, offering maximum protection from hacking attempts or malware.

System Requirements

Before downloading, make sure your system meets the minimum requirements:

Desktop: Windows 10+, macOS 10.14+, or Linux (Ubuntu-based distributions)
Mobile: iOS 13+ or Android 8.1+
Hardware: A Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, or Ledger Stax
Internet connection: Required for software installation and app updates

Ensure your computer or mobile device is secure, free of malware, and not jailbroken or rooted, as this may compromise the safety of your assets.

Step 1: Downloading Ledger® Live

To begin, visit the official Ledger website and download the appropriate version of Ledger® Live for your device. Be cautious and always verify that you're using the official source to avoid phishing attempts. Ledger does not distribute its software through unofficial third-party app stores or download links.

Once downloaded, install the application by following the on-screen instructions specific to your operating system. On desktop, you may need to grant permissions or confirm system security prompts.

Step 2: Launching the Application

Open Ledger® Live once installation is complete. The welcome screen will ask whether you are setting up a new device or restoring from a recovery phrase. Choose the option that applies to you:

Set up as a new device: Select this if your hardware wallet is brand new and has never been initialized.
Restore from recovery phrase: Choose this if you are recovering an existing wallet using your 24-word recovery phrase.
Already set up: This is for users who already completed device setup and want to connect Ledger® Live for portfolio management.

Step 3: Device Initialization

If you are setting up a new device, the application will guide you through initializing your Ledger hardware wallet. The device will generate a unique 24-word recovery phrase. Write this phrase down on paper and store it in a safe location. Never share it with anyone and never store it digitally.

You will also be prompted to set a PIN code on your device, which helps prevent unauthorized access. Choose a secure PIN and remember it, as repeated incorrect entries will reset the device.

Step 4: Firmware Updates and Security Checks

After initialization, the Ledger® Live app may prompt you to install firmware updates. Keeping your device’s firmware current ensures access to the latest features and security patches.

Ledger® Live also includes a feature called “genuine check” that verifies your device is legitimate and has not been tampered with. Complete this check before proceeding further.

Step 5: Installing Crypto Apps on Your Device

Ledger® hardware wallets use a modular system where each supported cryptocurrency is managed through its own app. From Ledger® Live, navigate to the Manager tab, where you can browse and install apps such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Solana directly onto your device.

Be aware that storage space on the Ledger Nano S Plus and Nano X is limited. You can uninstall and reinstall apps without losing access to your assets, as they are stored on the blockchain, not in the app itself.

Step 6: Adding Accounts

With the apps installed, you can now add crypto accounts within Ledger® Live. Go to the “Accounts” tab and select “Add Account.” Choose the cryptocurrency, then follow the instructions to open the corresponding app on your Ledger device and confirm the setup.

Once added, each account displays your balance, transaction history, and options to send or receive funds.

Step 7: Transacting Securely

Ledger® Live makes it easy to send and receive crypto. To receive assets, navigate to the appropriate account, click “Receive,” and verify the displayed address on your hardware device screen before sharing it.

To send crypto, click “Send,” enter the recipient address, the amount, and confirm all details. Your Ledger device will prompt you to verify and authorize the transaction, ensuring the process cannot be hijacked by malware.

Step 8: Portfolio and Extra Features

The Portfolio tab provides a snapshot of your overall holdings, performance charts, and recent activity. Additional features include:

Staking: Supported for coins like Tezos, Ethereum, and Polkadot
Buying/Selling: Ledger® Live partners with third-party providers for direct crypto purchases and sales
Swapping: Certain assets can be exchanged within the app, depending on market availability
NFT Management: View and manage NFTs on supported blockchains

Best Practices for Security

Using Ledger® Live with your hardware wallet is one of the most secure ways to manage crypto, but users must still follow good security practices:

Never share your recovery phrase or enter it online
Keep your Ledger device in a secure physical location
Regularly update your software and firmware
Avoid downloading from unverified sources or clicking unknown links

Conclusion

Ledger® Live is designed to offer a secure, intuitive interface for both new and experienced crypto users. From the moment you download it to your first transaction, the app is structured to protect your assets while offering flexibility and control. By following the recommended steps and maintaining strong security habits, you can confidently manage your cryptocurrency portfolio with industry-leading peace of mind.