1. Install Ledger Live

Download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website. Use the installer for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux) or install the mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Always verify you are on the official site — double-check the URL and prefer bookmarked or typed links rather than search results.

2. Prepare & connect your Ledger device

Unbox your Ledger hardware device (Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Ledger Nano X) and follow the included quick start guide. When powering the device for the first time, you will:

• Choose a PIN — a simple numeric PIN protects access to the device.
• Write down the recovery phrase (seed phrase) on the provided card — this is the only backup for your crypto. Do not take photos or store it in the cloud.

After the device is initialized, launch Ledger Live and choose Get started. Connect your device via USB (or Bluetooth for Nano X), let Ledger Live detect it, and follow prompts to pair and confirm the device's public key on the hardware screen.

3. Add accounts & install apps

Within Ledger Live, go to Manager to install blockchain apps on your device (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). Apps occupy secure storage on the device. Then use Accounts → Add account to create accounts for each asset you own. Ledger Live fetches and synchronizes your account balances and transaction history securely — the private keys never leave your device.

4. Sending and receiving crypto

To receive funds, open the account in Ledger Live and click Receive. Ledger Live will show a receiving address — always confirm that the address shown in the app matches the address you see on your Ledger device's screen before sharing it.

To send funds, click Send, enter the destination address and amount, and choose a network fee. Ledger Live will prompt you to confirm and sign the transaction on your hardware device. Only after you physically approve the transaction on the device will it be broadcast to the network.

5. Fees, tokens & staking

Ledger Live supports many tokens and networks. For some blockchains you can stake assets directly from Ledger Live (for example, supported PoS networks). When using staking, understand the lock-up periods and unbonding times for each network. Ledger Live clearly shows estimated rewards and status.

6. Security best practices

Security is the core reason to use a hardware wallet. Keep these rules:

• Never share your recovery phrase. Ledger will never ask for it — not in email, customer support chats, or popups.
• Write the recovery phrase on paper or on a metal backup and store it in a safe, offline place.
• Use a unique, strong PIN and enable passphrase feature if you need advanced account separation.
• Keep Ledger Live and the device firmware up to date by applying updates from the official app only.
• Verify addresses on the device screen each time you send or receive — this prevents address-hijacking malware from tricking your computer display.

7. Troubleshooting & tips

If Ledger Live does not detect your device, try a different USB cable or port and restart the app. On mobile, ensure Bluetooth permissions are granted for Nano X pairing. If you lose your device, your recovery phrase restores your accounts on a new Ledger (or any compatible wallet). Always restore on the official Ledger device or a trusted recovery method.

8. FAQ

9. Final checklist (quick)

• Download Ledger Live from the official source.
• Initialize your device and write down the recovery phrase offline.
• Install only the apps you need (Manager), add accounts, and verify addresses on-device.
• Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated; never share your recovery phrase.
• Consider a metal backup and offline secure storage for long-term holdings.