Ledger® Live | Getting Started | Ledger® Wallet Guide

In the world of cryptocurrency, security is everything. Ledger® Live, the official app from Ledger®, is your all-in-one solution for securely managing your crypto assets. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced user, this guide walks you through getting started with Ledger® Live and maximizing the potential of your Ledger® hardware wallet.

🔐 What Is Ledger® Live?

Ledger® Live is the official companion app for Ledger hardware wallets (Ledger Nano S Plus® and Ledger Nano X®). It’s available for desktop and mobile, offering a single interface to:

  • Buy, sell, and swap cryptocurrencies

  • Track your portfolio in real-time

  • Send and receive digital assets

  • Stake coins and earn rewards

  • Manage NFTs and explore Web3 apps

All while keeping your private keys offline and secure on your Ledger® device.

🛠 Step 1: Downloading Ledger® Live

To avoid fake apps or phishing attempts, always download Ledger® Live from the official website:
🔗 https://www.ledger.com/start

For Desktop:

  • Compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux

  • Install the app and launch it after download

For Mobile:

  • Available on iOS and Android through App Store or Google Play

  • Use Bluetooth to connect with Ledger Nano X®, or USB for Nano S Plus®

🔌 Step 2: Setting Up Your Ledger® Device

If you’re using your Ledger wallet for the first time:

  1. Connect the device to your computer or phone.

  2. Choose “Set up as a new device.”

  3. Create a secure PIN code.

  4. Write down the 24-word recovery phrase shown on-screen.

  5. Confirm some words to verify accuracy.

💡 Important: Your recovery phrase is your only backup. Never store it digitally or share it with anyone.

Already have a wallet? Use “Restore from recovery phrase” to recover your accounts.

🔗 Step 3: Connect Your Ledger® Device to Ledger® Live

Once Ledger® Live is open:

  1. Click "Get Started" and choose your device model.

  2. Connect your hardware wallet using the USB cable or Bluetooth (Nano X).

  3. Follow the instructions to allow Ledger® Live to recognize your wallet.

  4. If needed, update the firmware and install recommended apps.

💼 Step 4: Add Cryptocurrency Accounts

Each cryptocurrency requires a separate account inside Ledger® Live:

  1. Go to Accounts → Add Account

  2. Choose your asset (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum)

  3. Ledger® Live will install the required blockchain app on your Ledger device

  4. Confirm the installation and authorize it on your device

You can now track your balance, send, receive, and manage the selected crypto.

💸 Step 5: Receive and Send Crypto

To receive crypto:

  • Click Receive

  • Select the account

  • Verify the address on your Ledger® device

  • Share the verified address (QR code or copy/paste)

To send crypto:

  • Click Send

  • Enter the recipient’s wallet address and amount

  • Choose a network fee

  • Confirm the transaction on your Ledger® device

Each transaction must be verified physically, keeping your keys safe.

🔄 Step 6: Buy, Swap & Stake Crypto

Buying Crypto:

  • Use Ledger Live’s Buy tab

  • Choose a payment provider (e.g., MoonPay, Coinify)

  • Enter your payment method (credit card, bank transfer)

  • Purchased crypto is sent directly to your Ledger® wallet

Swapping Tokens:

  • Select the Swap tab

  • Choose the assets you want to exchange

  • Confirm the transaction on your device

  • Tokens are swapped instantly through integrated partners

Staking Assets:

  • Navigate to the Earn section

  • Stake coins like ETH, DOT, ADA

  • Earn passive rewards while maintaining full ownership

🌐 Step 7: Web3 Access & NFTs

Ledger® Live also supports NFT management and Web3 apps:

  • View and send Ethereum and Polygon-based NFTs

  • Use Ledger Connect to access DeFi platforms, games, and marketplaces

  • Every interaction is secured with your Ledger® device

🛡 Ledger® Security Tips

Security is Ledger’s top priority. Follow these essential rules:

  • Only download apps from ledger.com

  • Never share your 24-word recovery phrase

  • Confirm all actions on your device screen

  • Regularly update Ledger Live and your device firmware

  • Enable passphrase protection for advanced users

Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase or private keys.

📈 Monitor Your Portfolio

Ledger® Live provides a clear and intuitive dashboard where you can:

  • View your crypto portfolio

  • Track asset performance

  • Filter by tokens, date, or blockchain

  • Export transaction history for tax or accounting purposes

It’s a simple, secure way to keep track of your holdings in real time.

✅ Final Thoughts

Ledger® Live is the perfect combination of security and usability. Paired with a Ledger hardware wallet, it offers unmatched control over your digital assets.

From setting up your wallet and managing multiple cryptocurrencies to buying, staking, and exploring DeFi—all in one app—Ledger® Live makes crypto secure and user-friendly.

Start your journey today at ledger.com/start.
Your keys. Your crypto. Your future.