Why Ledger Live and getting started matters
Ledger Live is the desktop and mobile companion app for Ledger hardware wallets. Getting started with Ledger Live is the essential first step to securely manage crypto, check balances, send and receive tokens, and install supported apps for different blockchains. This guide gives a clear, practical getting started path for Ledger Live users — whether you're brand new to crypto or upgrading security with a hardware wallet.
Before you begin: important preparation
Preparation makes the Ledger Live setup smoother and safer. Use an up-to-date computer or phone, a reliable USB cable (or Ledger's cable), and record your recovery phrase on the supplied card — never store your recovery phrase digitally. If you already have a Ledger device, ensure it’s genuine and sealed. These basic precautions are core to a safe Ledger Live experience.
Step-by-step: Ledger Live — getting started
Download Ledger Live from the official source or ensure you’re on a trusted mirror. Install the Ledger Live app on your desktop or mobile device. Launch the app and choose “Get Started” to begin the guided process. Ledger Live will walk you through firmware checks and device pairing.
Choose “Set up as new device” on your Ledger hardware wallet and write down the recovery phrase when prompted. This recovery phrase is the only way to restore your accounts in Ledger Live if your device is lost or damaged. Safely store that phrase offline and never share it.
Using the USB cable or Bluetooth (model dependent), pair the hardware wallet with Ledger Live. Approve any connection prompts on the device. Ledger Live will ask you to create a PIN on the device — choose a PIN that’s memorable for you but not guessable.
Ledger Live has a Manager section. Use it to install specific blockchain apps (for example, Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana) to your device. Installing apps does not expose your private keys — apps provide a safe environment on-device to sign transactions.
In Ledger Live, add accounts for the blockchains you use. Ledger Live will index addresses and show balances safely. You can receive funds to your Ledger Live addresses and confirm on-device. Ledger Live makes managing multiple crypto assets straightforward and reliable.
Quick security tips (must-read)
Always verify the recipient address on your Ledger device screen before confirming a send. Use only the official Ledger Live download links, and never enter your recovery phrase into a website or app. If you see unexpected popups or social engineering attempts, stop and double-check. Treat your recovery phrase like the only key to your crypto.
Advanced: backups, updates and best practices
Keep backups of your recovery phrase in secure, separated locations. Update Ledger Live and device firmware regularly; Ledger Live will show available updates and guide you through device firmware updates safely. For regular transactions, Ledger Live makes daily crypto management simple while keeping private keys on the hardware device.
Summary — fast checklist for Ledger Live getting started
- Download Ledger Live from an official source and install the app.
- Initialize your Ledger device and write down the recovery phrase offline.
- Pair the device with Ledger Live and set a secure PIN.
- Install blockchain apps via Ledger Live's Manager.
- Add accounts in Ledger Live and verify balances on-device.
- Follow security best practices: verify addresses on-device; never share your recovery phrase.
This page is an independent guide to Ledger Live getting started — written for clear, valuable onboarding. It repeats important keywords like "Ledger Live", "getting started", "hardware wallet", and "Ledger" across headings and steps to highlight the most critical elements of a safe setup without sacrificing readability. Use this guide to feel confident managing crypto with Ledger Live and a Ledger hardware wallet.