Ledger Live Wallet® – Getting Started™

Your Guide to Setting Up Secure Crypto Management with Ledger Live

Welcome to Ledger Live

Ledger Live Wallet® is the official application that allows you to securely manage your cryptocurrencies using your Ledger® hardware wallet. Whether you’re new to crypto or migrating from another wallet, Ledger Live makes it easy to send, receive, stake, and grow your digital assets — all while keeping your private keys offline and secure.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started — from setting up your Ledger device to safely managing and growing your crypto portfolio using Ledger Live.

What is Ledger Live?

Ledger Live is a powerful desktop and mobile app that connects directly to your Ledger hardware wallet. It allows you to:

Unlike browser-based wallets or software wallets, Ledger Live is designed to work only with your Ledger hardware device — adding a layer of physical security to every action you take.

Step 1: Download Ledger Live

To get started, visit the official Ledger website: ledger.com/start.

  1. Select your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
  2. Download and install the latest version of Ledger Live.
  3. Once installed, launch the app.
⚠️ Never download Ledger Live from unofficial sources. Avoid scams and fake apps that can steal your assets.

Step 2: Set Up Your Ledger Device

Connect your Ledger hardware wallet using the USB cable provided. If this is your first time using the device, you’ll be prompted to:

This recovery phrase is the single most important piece of information. It is your backup if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged.

🔒 Never store your recovery phrase online. Do not take photos or upload it to cloud services. Write it down and store it in a secure, offline place.

Step 3: Run the Genuine Check

Once your device is set up, Ledger Live will prompt you to perform a "Genuine Check". This ensures your device is a legitimate Ledger product and hasn’t been tampered with.

Simply follow the on-screen instructions and confirm the action on your Ledger device.

Step 4: Install Apps

Every cryptocurrency requires a corresponding app on your Ledger device. For example, to use Bitcoin, you must install the Bitcoin app via Ledger Live’s “Manager” section.

You can install multiple apps depending on your device’s storage capacity. Don’t worry — uninstalling apps doesn’t remove your funds; you can reinstall them anytime.

Step 5: Add Crypto Accounts

In Ledger Live, go to the “Accounts” tab and click “Add account.” You’ll be guided to open the relevant app on your device, and Ledger Live will scan for existing balances or addresses.

Each crypto account represents a separate blockchain (e.g. Ethereum, Solana). You can create multiple accounts for the same coin for better organization.

Step 6: Receive Crypto

To receive crypto into your Ledger wallet:

Always verify receiving addresses on your device to avoid malware substitution attacks.

Step 7: Send Crypto

Sending crypto from Ledger Live is secure and straightforward:

  1. Click “Send” from your selected account
  2. Enter the recipient address and amount
  3. Select the transaction fee based on speed (slow/medium/fast)
  4. Verify and confirm the transaction on your device

Only after confirming on your hardware wallet will the transaction be signed and sent.

Step 8: Stake Your Crypto

Ledger Live supports staking for several coins, allowing you to earn passive income. Supported coins include:

Staking from Ledger Live keeps your funds in your control while contributing to blockchain security and earning you rewards.

Step 9: Swap & Buy Crypto

Through Ledger Live, you can buy or swap crypto using integrated third-party providers like MoonPay, Changelly, and Wyre. These services allow you to: