1. Overview
Ledger Live is the official companion app for Ledger hardware wallets. It allows you to manage multiple accounts, perform transactions securely, update firmware, and monitor your crypto portfolio. The key security principle is that your private keys always remain on the Ledger device, never on your computer.
2. Download & Install
Download Ledger Live only from the official Ledger website. Verify checksums where provided to ensure file integrity. Choose your operating system: Windows, macOS, Linux, or mobile (iOS/Android). Install the app following standard OS prompts.
Note: Verifying the installer prevents malware or tampered applications from compromising your assets.
3. Connect Your Ledger Device
Use the original USB cable and connect directly to your computer. Ledger Live will detect the device automatically. Unlock the device using the PIN on the physical hardware. Never enter your recovery phrase on the computer.
Warning: Any prompt asking for your recovery phrase on the computer is a scam. Always input the seed only on your device during restore.
4. Ledger Live Login Flow
Ledger Live uses a local profile and optional app password for application-level security. Your device PIN remains the main safeguard. For daily operations, connect your device, unlock it, and open Ledger Live. The recovery phrase is never typed during normal login.
5. Account Setup & Management
Ledger devices support apps for multiple cryptocurrencies. Use Ledger Live to install coin apps and add accounts. Sync your account to view balances and transaction history. For less common tokens, verify third-party sources before use.
6. Sending & Receiving Crypto
Receiving: Generate addresses from Ledger Live, confirm them on-device before sharing.
Sending: Compose transactions in Ledger Live. Verify recipient, amount, and fees on the device before approval. On-device verification ensures safety against malware.
Critical: Never approve a transaction if on-device details differ from Ledger Live.
7. PIN & Passphrase
Choose a strong device PIN. Passphrases are optional and create hidden wallets. Losing the passphrase results in permanent loss of that wallet.
8. Recovery Phrase & Backup
Write down your 12/24-word recovery phrase and store offline. Consider metal backups for durability. Never store digitally.
Important: Anyone with your recovery phrase can access your funds.
9. Test Transactions
Always send a small test amount when using a new address or service to validate the workflow.
10. Troubleshooting
- Device not detected: try a different cable/port, restart Ledger Live, or restart your system.
- Forgot PIN: reset device and restore using recovery phrase.
- Suspicious prompts: disconnect and consult official Ledger support.
11. Security Best Practices
- Always verify addresses on-device.
- Keep Ledger Live and firmware updated from official sources.
- Use small test transactions for new interactions.
- Store recovery seed offline in secure locations.
- Consider multisig or air-gapped workflows for advanced security.
12. Daily Usage Tips
- Connect and unlock the device before performing transactions.
- Confirm transaction details on-device every time.
- Use strong app password and PIN.
- Regularly review backups and device integrity.
13. Advanced Workflows
Advanced users can explore multisignature wallets, passphrase-protected hidden wallets, and air-gapped signing to increase security for high-value assets.