Ledger Live App — Getting started

Concise, practical, and security-focused — this Ledger Live App getting started guide walks you through initializing your Ledger device, configuring the Ledger Live App, managing accounts, and adopting strong operational security.

Overview: What is the Ledger Live App?

The Ledger Live App is the desktop and mobile interface for managing your Ledger hardware wallet. Use the Ledger Live App to install apps on your device, add cryptocurrency accounts, monitor your portfolio, and sign transactions securely using your Ledger hardware.

Keywords: Ledger Live App, Ledger Wallet, hardware wallet, self-custody, firmware, recovery phrase.

Preparation & safety (before setup)

  1. Use a trusted, personal computer or mobile device and a secure internet connection. Avoid public Wi‑Fi during setup.
  2. Order Ledger hardware only from official sources. Do not use second‑hand devices for initial storage of funds.
  3. Have a durable notebook and pen ready to record your recovery phrase.

Step 1 — Install the Ledger Live App

  1. Download the Ledger Live App from the official Ledger website and install it on your desktop or mobile device.
  2. Open the Ledger Live App and follow the on‑screen onboarding prompts. Choose Get Started to begin.

Always verify the official domain and check file signatures if provided. Ledger Live App updates frequently — keep it updated.

Step 2 — Initialize your Ledger device

  1. Connect the Ledger device and power it on. Select Create new device if this is the first setup.
  2. Choose a PIN (4–8 digits minimum, but prefer longer). The PIN protects local physical access to your Ledger device — choose one you can remember but is not easily guessable.
  3. The device will generate a recovery phrase (24 words recommended). Write the recovery phrase exactly as shown, in order, on the provided recovery sheet or a robust backup medium.

Never store the recovery phrase on a phone, computer, cloud, or take a photo. A passphrase (optional extra word) can be added for advanced users as a hidden wallet layer — treat it like part of the private key.

Step 3 — Connect Ledger Live App & install apps

  1. In the Ledger Live App, open the Manager and connect your device when prompted.
  2. Install the individual cryptocurrency apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) you need on your Ledger device via the Ledger Live App Manager.

Install only the apps you’ll use. Each app consumes device memory — remove unused apps safely via the Manager. Removing an app does NOT delete your funds; funds are derived from your recovery phrase.

Step 4 — Add accounts & manage assets

  1. In Ledger Live App, go to Accounts → Add account and select the asset you want to add. The Ledger Live App will derive addresses from your device; confirm on-device when requested.
  2. To receive funds, choose Receive, select the account, and verify the address on your Ledger device before sharing it.
  3. Use the Ledger Live App to monitor portfolio performance, stake supported assets, swap via partners, or use built-in buy/sell options where available.

Security best practices for the Ledger Live App

  • Keep your device firmware and the Ledger Live App updated to the latest versions for security patches.
  • Use a unique, strong PIN and consider an additional passphrase for extra security.
  • Back up the recovery phrase physically in multiple secure locations. Test restoration process on a spare device if you can.
  • Never share your recovery phrase with anyone — Ledger support will never ask for it.

Troubleshooting

  1. If Ledger Live App cannot detect your device, ensure the cable is data-capable, allow the connection on-device, and try a different USB port or trusted computer.
  2. If you forget your PIN, restore using your recovery phrase on a new Ledger device or compatible wallet.

Final notes & keywords

Keywords/staffing: Ledger Live App, Ledger Wallet, hardware wallet, self-custody, PIN, recovery phrase, firmware update, account manager, staking, swap, buy crypto, portfolio.