Before you begin
You will need a Ledger hardware device (such as Ledger Nano), a desktop computer (Windows, macOS, or Linux), and an internet connection. Keep your recovery phrase (seed phrase) safe and offline — Ledger® Live never asks for it.
- Supported platforms: Windows 10+, macOS 10.14+, Linux (varies by distro)
- USB or USB-C cable compatible with your Ledger device
- Your device unlocked with PIN for initial setup
Install Ledger® Live Desktop
Download the official Ledger® Live installer from the Ledger website. Always verify the download page and checksum if you require maximum assurance.
- Visit the official Ledger site and go to the Downloads section.
- Choose the correct installer for your operating system and download it.
- Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Open Ledger® Live after installation completes.
On first launch, Ledger® Live may perform a short update and ask you to accept terms and privacy settings.
Set up or connect your Ledger device
Connect your Ledger device to your computer with the cable. If this is a new device, set it up using the device UI: choose a PIN and write down the recovery phrase on the provided recovery sheet — keep it offline and secure.
- Open Ledger® Live and choose Get started.
- Select I already have a device or Set up a new device depending on your situation.
- Follow prompts on both Ledger® Live and your device. The device displays addresses and transaction information for verification; always verify values on the device screen.
Never enter your recovery phrase into Ledger® Live or any app. If any website or app asks for your seed phrase, treat it as a phishing attempt.
Add accounts
After your device is connected and unlocked, add blockchain accounts to Ledger® Live to view balances and manage assets.
- Go to Accounts > Add account.
- Select the cryptocurrency (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) and follow the instructions to open the corresponding app on your Ledger device.
- Ledger® Live will discover existing addresses and synchronize balances; repeat to add multiple accounts or chains.
Adding an account only imports public addresses derived from your device — no private keys leave the device.
Send and receive: first transaction
To receive funds, create a receive address in Ledger® Live and verify it on your device. To send funds, construct the transaction in the app and confirm it on the hardware device.
- Receive: In Accounts, choose the account > Receive. Open the corresponding app on your Ledger device and verify the address shown on the device matches the address displayed in Ledger® Live before sharing it.
- Send: Choose the account > Send. Enter the recipient address, amount, and network fee. Press Continue and review the transaction summary. Confirm the transaction on your Ledger device — the device displays the destination and amount for final approval.
Confirming on-device ensures a compromised host cannot silently alter transaction details.
Apps, staking, and swaps
Ledger® Live's App Manager installs blockchain-specific apps to your device. Staking, swaps, and NFT management are available for supported chains through built‑in flows or partner integrations.
- App Manager: Install or remove apps for the chains you use (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
- Staking: Stake supported assets directly from Ledger® Live — operations require device confirmation.
- Swaps & on‑ramps: Use integrated partners for token swaps or fiat purchases; check fees and partner KYC requirements.
Troubleshooting & safety tips
- Always verify addresses on your Ledger device screen before sending.
- Keep your recovery phrase offline and in a secure location — consider a fireproof safe.
- If Ledger® Live cannot detect your device, try a different cable or USB port and ensure the device is unlocked and the correct app is open.
- Enable automatic updates for Ledger® Live and verify update prompts on device when updating firmware.
If you suspect compromise, move funds to a new wallet after recovering on a new device and never re-use a seed phrase that may have been exposed.