This single‑page guide walks you through installing Ledger Live, initializing your Ledger device, logging in safely, and protecting your recovery phrase. It’s written in an official‑style tone, but it’s educational and independent—always follow prompts shown on your device screen and only use the official apps and URLs.
Get the desktop app from the official source for the most consistent setup and update experience. Avoid third‑party mirrors and search‑ad traps.
When your Ledger device arrives, examine the box and contents for signs of tampering. Only purchase from the official store or approved resellers. If anything looks off—damaged packaging, missing documentation—stop and contact support. Supply‑chain integrity is the foundation of device trust.
Choose a computer you control, with an up‑to‑date operating system and a modern browser. Avoid public Wi‑Fi during setup. Consider creating a separate local user account dedicated to wallet activity; fewer background apps means fewer surprises.
Have the provided recovery sheets or a metal backup ready. Plan where you’ll store your recovery phrase—preferably two geographically separate, secure locations. Never photograph or digitize the phrase; what never touches a camera or keyboard cannot leak online.
Your 12/18/24‑word phrase is your wallet. Anyone with it can move your funds. Store it offline in at least one secure place; many users choose two separate locations for resilience against fire, flood, or theft.
When sending or receiving, compare the address on your computer with the one shown on the device. If they differ, cancel immediately and investigate.
Updates deliver security fixes and compatibility improvements. Apply them via Ledger Live, read prompts carefully, and avoid rushed clicks.
Use separate accounts for spending, savings, and testing. Consider additional privacy strategies such as using fresh addresses and avoiding public address reuse when possible.
No employee or website should ask for your recovery phrase, PIN, or to “synchronize” your wallet by entering the phrase into a form. Those are scams. Close the page and return via your own bookmark.
Don’t leave the device unlocked and unattended. Enable auto‑lock. If traveling, keep the device separate from any written backups.
Public blockchains are transparent. Reusing addresses links activity together. Generate new receiving addresses when possible and avoid posting addresses publicly.
Ledger Live may collect diagnostics you can opt out of. Review settings for analytics and error reporting. On your OS, limit app screen recording and accessibility permissions to what’s necessary.
Restart the app and your computer. Check firewall or antivirus prompts. If syncing stalls, toggle the specific network or clear the cache from within Ledger Live settings, then resync.
Keep calm. Don’t unplug unless instructed. Reopen Ledger Live; the device often resumes or offers recovery steps. Ensure stable power and USB connection during updates.
After too many failed attempts, the device wipes for safety. Restore using your recovery phrase on the device. This is why offline backups are critical.
Your funds live on the blockchain, controlled by the recovery phrase. Acquire a new Ledger, initialize recovery on the device, and your accounts will reappear in Ledger Live once you add them again.
If the address on your computer doesn’t match the device, cancel the transaction. Update Ledger Live, scan for malware, and verify again.
Some users add a passphrase to derive hidden accounts. This boosts privacy and security but introduces risk: forgetting the passphrase means permanent loss. Only use if you can manage it safely.
Consider one device for daily spending and another for long‑term storage. Keep separate backups and label devices clearly to avoid operational mistakes.
Create a personal checklist for sends: confirm recipient, network, fee, and address on the device; perform a small test when sending to a new counterparty; wait for confirmations before considering funds final.
It’s the recommended companion app for managing updates, accounts, and transactions. Some third‑party wallets can connect to your Ledger, but always review risks and only use trusted software.
Yes. Your private keys stay on the device. Install Ledger Live on each trusted computer and verify addresses on the device every time.
Immediately move funds to a new wallet with a fresh phrase generated on a secure device. Assume exposure equals full compromise.
Desktop typically offers a more controlled environment and full feature set. Mobile is convenient for viewing and small actions; treat it carefully on untrusted networks.