Ledger Live | Getting Started — Ledger

As the world of cryptocurrency expands, so does the need for tools that combine strong security with simplicity. For individuals investing in digital assets, self-custody—meaning full control over your own crypto—is a priority. That’s where Ledger Live enters the picture. Paired with Ledger’s hardware wallets, Ledger Live allows users to securely manage their crypto portfolio from one intuitive platform. Whether you’re just starting out or transitioning from another wallet, this guide will help you understand how to get started with Ledger Live, step by step.

What Is Ledger Live?

Ledger Live is the official application developed by Ledger to help users manage their cryptocurrencies through a secure hardware wallet. Available for desktop and mobile, it acts as a bridge between your offline Ledger device and the online blockchain ecosystem.

Here’s what you can do with Ledger Live:

  • Send and receive over 5,000 coins and tokens
  • Check your crypto portfolio in real-time
  • Install apps for different blockchains
  • Stake coins like Ethereum, Polkadot, and Tezos
  • Manage NFTs on Ethereum and Polygon
  • Swap crypto via integrated third-party services
  • Interact securely with Web3 apps

The beauty of Ledger Live is that it allows all these features while your private keys stay safe inside your Ledger device, never exposed online.

Before You Start: What You’ll Need

To begin using Ledger Live, make sure you have the following:

  • A Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S Plus or Nano X)
  • A computer or smartphone
  • The latest version of the Ledger Live app (available on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android)

Most importantly, be ready to take responsibility for your crypto security. That includes safely storing your 24-word recovery phrase and staying aware of common scams.

Step 1: Set Up Your Ledger Device

Your Ledger device must be initialized before it can be used with Ledger Live.

  1. Power on your Ledger device and choose “Set up as new device.”
  2. Create a secure PIN code that you’ll use to unlock the device.
  3. Write down the 24-word recovery phrase generated by the device. This phrase is the only way to recover your assets if your device is lost or damaged.
  4. Confirm your recovery phrase by re-entering selected words, as prompted by the device.

Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase. Store it offline in a secure location—never take a photo or store it in digital form.

Step 2: Install Ledger Live

After setting up your Ledger device, install the Ledger Live app on your computer or smartphone.

  1. Open the app and select “Get Started.”
  2. Choose your device model (Nano S Plus or Nano X).
  3. Select “Initialize as new device” or “Restore device from recovery phrase,” based on your setup.
  4. Follow the prompts to confirm your device setup and run a genuine check to verify that your Ledger is authentic.

Step 3: Add Crypto Accounts

With Ledger Live connected to your device, you can now begin managing cryptocurrencies.

  1. Navigate to the “Accounts” section in the app.
  2. Click “Add account” and choose the crypto asset you want to manage (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana).
  3. Ledger Live will prompt you to open the corresponding app on your device.
  4. After verification, the account will be added to your dashboard.

Each account lets you view balances, transaction history, and more.

Step 4: Receive and Send Crypto

To receive funds:

  • Click on the crypto account you added.
  • Select “Receive” and confirm the address shown in Ledger Live on your hardware wallet.
  • Use that address to receive funds from an exchange, wallet, or another sender.

To send funds:

  • Click “Send”, enter the recipient’s address, amount, and fees.
  • Confirm all details on your device before the transaction is signed and sent.

Ledger Live ensures that no transaction can be completed without physical confirmation on your hardware wallet.

Step 5: Explore Additional Features

Once you’re comfortable with sending and receiving, Ledger Live has a lot more to offer:

Staking

Stake supported assets like ETH, DOT, and XTZ to earn passive income directly from the Ledger Live interface. You retain full ownership of your crypto while it earns rewards.

NFT Management

View and manage your Ethereum and Polygon-based NFTs with complete safety. Just like crypto transactions, NFT transfers must be approved on your Ledger device.

Swapping Crypto

Exchange one crypto asset for another via integrated swap services within Ledger Live. This feature works while keeping your private keys offline.

Portfolio Tracking

Monitor your entire portfolio in real-time. Ledger Live provides analytics, price charts, and asset allocation data so you always know where you stand.

Security Tips for Ledger Live Users

Even though Ledger Live is built for security, users must follow best practices to stay protected:

  • Never share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone.
  • Always verify receiving addresses on your Ledger device screen.
  • Use a strong password for the Ledger Live app and enable biometric login where available.
  • Update your device firmware and Ledger Live app regularly.
  • Be cautious of phishing attempts, especially those pretending to be Ledger support.

Remember: Ledger will never contact you asking for your recovery phrase or private details.

When to Contact Ledger Support

If you encounter issues while setting up or using Ledger Live, the official support resources can assist you. Ledger provides help with:

  • Device pairing issues
  • App installation errors
  • Troubleshooting failed transactions
  • Recovery phrase education
  • Security concerns

Reliable support ensures that your experience with Ledger Live remains smooth, safe, and successful.

Final Thoughts: Your Crypto, Your Control