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Official Site® - Ledger.com/Start | Getting started®
Ledger Live is the companion app that connects your Ledger device to the blockchain ecosystem while keeping your private keys offline on the secure element. With a unified dashboard, you can install coin apps, add accounts, send and receive assets, track your portfolio, stake supported coins, and interact with Web3 services through vetted integrations—all with on-device verification.
1) Download & Verify
From the official page, download the desktop or mobile app (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android). After downloading, verify the installer signature or checksum when available, and ensure your browser shows a secure connection to ledger.com
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- Install the app and open it.
- Select Get started and choose your device model.
- Follow the on-screen steps to begin setup.
2) Initialize the Device
Connect your Ledger via USB (or Bluetooth for devices that support it). Create a strong PIN and confirm it on the device screen. Your Ledger will generate a secret recovery phrase. Write each word in order on the recovery sheets.
- Never take photos or store the phrase online.
- Confirm words on-device when prompted.
- Store backups in separate, secure locations.
3) Install Coin Apps & Add Accounts
In Ledger Live, go to My Ledger to install coin apps on your device. Then open Accounts > Add account to synchronize addresses. Your private keys never leave the secure chip; all sensitive approvals occur on your device screen.
- Support for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of assets.
- Label and organize accounts for clarity.
- Enable analytics and notifications if desired.
4) Receive, Send, and Verify
To receive, open the target account in Ledger Live and click Receive. Always verify the address shown in the app matches the one on your device screen before sharing. To send, click Send, paste the recipient’s address, review fees, and confirm on-device. If anything looks unfamiliar or mismatched, reject the transaction.
Harden Your Security
- Firmware & App Updates: Keep your device firmware and Ledger Live up to date via My Ledger.
- App Password Lock: Set an app password, and consider enabling additional OS protections.
- Phishing Defense: Only trust messages inside Ledger Live and on-device prompts. Support will never request your 24 words.
- Network Hygiene: Use trusted networks and consider a dedicated computer profile for crypto operations.
- Backups: Store recovery sheets safely; consider a steel backup for durability against water or fire.
Explore More: Staking, NFTs & Web3
Expand beyond basic transfers. Stake supported assets to help secure networks and potentially earn rewards while keeping custody of your keys. View and manage NFTs with on-device confirmation for critical actions. Access curated Web3 apps through Ledger Live’s Discover section or connect your Ledger to compatible wallets to interact with DeFi. As always, review permissions carefully and confirm every action on your device screen.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storing the recovery phrase digitally (photos, cloud notes, email).
- Approving transactions you don’t fully understand or didn’t initiate.
- Installing apps or updates from unofficial sources.
- Ignoring firmware or Ledger Live updates and security notifications.
Troubleshooting & Support
If the device isn’t detected, try a different cable or USB port, close conflicting apps, and ensure you’ve unlocked the device with the correct PIN. For sync or display issues, update to the latest Ledger Live version and restart your computer or phone. When in doubt, consult the official Help Center.