A concise guide to downloading Ledger Live, setting up your Ledger device, and best security practices.
Ledger Live is Ledger’s official desktop and mobile app for managing hardware wallets and monitoring your crypto portfolio. It provides a secure interface to install apps, add accounts for supported assets, buy/swap through partners, stake supported tokens, and update device firmware. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Pairing a Ledger hardware wallet (the physical device) with Ledger Live keeps private keys offline on the device while providing an easy-to-use software interface for transactions and portfolio tracking. This separation of keys (device) and UI (Ledger Live) is core to the security model. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Always download Ledger Live only from Ledger’s official site. Ledger provides installers for macOS, Windows and Linux. Follow the download instructions on the Ledger Live download page. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Download only from the official site; fake Ledger apps and installers have been used in malware campaigns. Ledger and security researchers warn users to verify sources and never share seed phrases. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
When you set up a new Ledger hardware device you will either restore from an existing recovery phrase or create a new wallet on the device. Choose “Set up as new device” if you don’t have an existing seed. Ledger’s step-by-step start guide shows how to initialize the device safely. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
The device generates a 24-word recovery phrase (sometimes 12/24 depending on model/options). Write it down on the supplied recovery card or a secure backup device — never store it digitally or share it. Your recovery phrase restores access if the device is lost. Ledger documents and shop pages stress secure backups and offer physical backup solutions. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
In Ledger Live you can add accounts for supported blockchains (Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands more). Ledger Live fetches balances and allows transaction construction which is then signed on your physical device. Check the supported assets page for specifics. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Use Ledger Live's Manager to install the specific blockchain apps your device needs (e.g., Bitcoin app, Ethereum app). Apps on the device enable account management for that currency. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Regularly update Ledger Live and device firmware via the official update flow in Ledger Live → My Ledger. Updates often include security improvements and new asset support. Always follow official instructions when updating. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
To send crypto, you create the transaction in Ledger Live and confirm and sign it securely on the Ledger device. Receiving is done by sharing the account address shown in Ledger Live (and verified on the device when possible). Confirm addresses on the device screen before sending. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
Ledger Live integrates partner services for buying and swapping crypto, and has built-in staking options for supported assets. Availability depends on region and partner providers. Check Ledger Live’s on-ramp partners and staking pages for details. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
Ledger’s official support site contains step-by-step articles: setting up Ledger Live, restoring from a recovery phrase, updating firmware, and dealing with common issues. Use the official support knowledge base and follow guidance there. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
If you encounter firmware errors, device failures, or suspected compromise, follow support instructions and contact official Ledger support channels. Avoid third-party agents offering secret fixes. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}