Ledger® Live: | Getting started - Ledger®

A concise 10-section walkthrough to get you up and running with Ledger Live and your Ledger hardware wallet.

Official resources: Ledger Start & Download — see support guides for device-specific steps. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Slide 1 — Overview: What is Ledger Live?

Big picture

Ledger Live is the official companion application for Ledger hardware wallets. It allows you to securely manage multiple cryptocurrencies, install device apps, check balances, and confirm transactions using your physical Ledger device. Think of Ledger Live as the secure dashboard that talks to your hardware wallet while keeping your private keys offline on the device itself.

Why use it?

Non-custodial control, transaction signing with the device, portfolio tracking, and integrated features such as buy/swap/bridge (where supported). Always download from the official Ledger site. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Slide 2 — Before you start: What you need

Checklist

Security reminder

Ledger will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase. If prompted, it’s a scam. Recent reports show fake Ledger apps targeting users — always verify downloads and system prompts. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

Slide 3 — Download & install Ledger Live

Steps

  1. Visit ledger.com/start to choose your OS and download the installer. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
  2. Run the installer and follow on-screen prompts.
  3. Allow Ledger Live to update itself after installation (it may download firmware or manager components).
Tip

On first run, Ledger Live guides you through setup or device restoration. Follow only the official prompts.

Slide 4 — Initialize your Ledger device

Set PIN & recovery

When powering the device for the first time you will: create a PIN code on the device and receive a 24-word recovery phrase shown only on the device screen. Write this phrase down exactly and store it offline in a safe place. Never share the phrase.

Restore vs New wallet

If you already have a recovery phrase from another device, choose “Restore” and enter it using the device prompts; otherwise, select “Set up as new device.”

Slide 5 — Add accounts in Ledger Live

Accounts & apps

Open Ledger Live → go to "Manager" to install cryptocurrency-specific apps on the Ledger device (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). Then go to "Accounts" → "Add account" to create visible accounts for each asset. Ledger Live stores only account metadata locally; keys remain on device.

Slide 6 — Sending and receiving crypto

Receive

Choose an account → click "Receive" → confirm the address on the hardware device screen to ensure the address matches (anti-malware check).

Send

Create a transaction in Ledger Live and confirm it directly on the hardware device using its physical buttons — Ledger Live displays the summary but signing happens on the device.

Safety

Always verify addresses on device screen before sending.

Slide 7 — Common settings & features

Portfolio view

Ledger Live shows portfolio value, asset breakdown, and recent activity. Use the Settings panel to configure currency display and security options.

Manager

Install/uninstall blockchain apps from Manager. Uninstalling an app does not delete funds — accounts can be restored later using the recovery phrase.

Slide 8 — Additional services (buy / swap / stake)

Ledger Live integrates third-party partners that allow buying, swapping, or staking some assets. These services rely on partners — review fees and terms before proceeding.

Regulatory & geographic

Availability varies by country and asset. Use Ledger Academy and Support for up-to-date partner lists. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

Slide 9 — Troubleshooting & updates

Keep software updated

Keep Ledger Live and your device firmware updated to receive security patches and new features. If you encounter issues, consult Ledger Support or the Help Center for official troubleshooting steps. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

If you suspect compromise

If anything asks for your recovery phrase or behaves oddly, disconnect and seek official support; never enter your phrase into an app or website.

Slide 10 — Final checklist & next steps

Before leaving

Next steps: explore Ledger Academy guides to deepen your knowledge (security best practices, DeFi, staking). :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}