Getting Started — Ledger Live® Wallet™

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If you’ve purchased a Ledger hardware wallet and want to securely manage your cryptocurrency, Getting Started — Ledger® Live Wallet™ is your first essential step. Ledger Live is the official application that allows you to set up, manage, and monitor your digital assets while keeping your private keys protected inside your Ledger hardware device.

This guide walks you through the setup process, core features, and best practices to ensure maximum security from day one.

What Is Ledger® Live Wallet™?

Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile application designed to work with Ledger hardware wallets. It enables users to:

  • Send and receive cryptocurrency
  • Track real-time portfolio balances
  • Install apps for supported coins
  • Update firmware securely
  • Stake selected digital assets

Unlike exchange-based wallets, Ledger Live works with your hardware device to ensure private keys never leave secure storage.

Before You Begin

To get started with Ledger Live Wallet™, you will need:

  • A Ledger hardware wallet such as:

    • Ledger Nano S Plus
    • Ledger Nano X
    • Ledger Stax

  • A computer (Windows, macOS, Linux) or smartphone (iOS/Android)

  • Internet connection for downloading the official app

Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website to avoid counterfeit software.

Step-by-Step: Getting Started with Ledger® Live Wallet™

1️⃣ Download and Install Ledger Live

Visit the official Ledger website and download the Ledger Live application for your device. Install it following the on-screen instructions.

2️⃣ Launch the Application

Open Ledger Live and select “Get Started.” You will be prompted to choose your device model.

3️⃣ Connect Your Ledger Device

Plug in your hardware wallet via USB or connect via Bluetooth (Nano X or Stax models). Unlock it using your PIN code.

4️⃣ Set Up as New or Restore

Choose one of the following options:

  • Set up as new device — Create a new wallet and generate a 24-word recovery phrase.
  • Restore from recovery phrase — Re-enter your 24-word phrase if you already have one.

⚠️ Always write your recovery phrase down on paper and store it offline. Never share it digitally.

5️⃣ Install Crypto Apps

Inside Ledger Live, go to “Manager” to install apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) onto your device. Each app allows you to manage a specific blockchain.

6️⃣ Add Accounts

After installing apps, add accounts within Ledger Live to start sending and receiving crypto.

Key Features of Ledger® Live Wallet™

🔐 Hardware-Level Security

Your private keys remain inside your Ledger device at all times. Ledger Live simply acts as an interface.

📊 Portfolio Dashboard

Track all supported crypto assets in one clean, real-time interface.

💱 Buy, Sell & Swap

Depending on region availability, Ledger Live offers integrated third-party services for buying and swapping crypto securely.

🔄 Firmware Updates

Receive notifications when firmware updates are available and install them securely.

🪙 Staking Options

Stake supported coins directly within Ledger Live to earn rewards while maintaining self-custody.

Why Use Ledger® Live Instead of Exchange Wallets?

Storing crypto on exchanges carries risks such as hacks, frozen withdrawals, or insolvency. With Ledger Live Wallet™:

  • You control your private keys
  • Transactions require physical confirmation
  • Assets remain offline in cold storage
  • Exposure to online threats is minimized

The principle is simple: Not your keys, not your coins.

Security Best Practices

To maximize safety when using Ledger Live:

✔ Only download Ledger Live from the official website ✔ Never enter your 24-word recovery phrase online ✔ Store your recovery phrase in a secure, offline location ✔ Enable passphrase protection (advanced users) ✔ Keep the app and firmware updated

Security awareness is your strongest defense in crypto.

Supported Cryptocurrencies

Ledger Live supports thousands of cryptocurrencies, including:

  • Bitcoin (BTC)
  • Ethereum (ETH)
  • Litecoin (LTC)
  • XRP
  • ERC-20 tokens
  • Many other altcoins

Support expands regularly with app updates.

Who Should Use Ledger® Live Wallet™?

Ledger Live is ideal for:

  • Long-term investors
  • NFT collectors
  • DeFi participants
  • Traders using cold storage
  • Anyone serious about self-custody

Whether you hold small amounts or large portfolios, Ledger Live offers institutional-grade security in a user-friendly format.

Final Thoughts

Getting Started — Ledger® Live Wallet™ is your gateway to secure cryptocurrency management. By pairing Ledger Live with a Ledger hardware wallet, you ensure that your digital assets remain under your control at all times.