Introduction
Ledger Wallet (formerly known as Ledger Live) is the official application for managing a Ledger hardware wallet and the crypto accounts connected to it. This article walks you through the essentials: downloading the app, connecting your device, creating or restoring an account, important security hygiene, and useful next steps.
Who is this for?
New Ledger hardware owners, users migrating from other wallets, or anyone who wants a clean step-by-step to get their Ledger and Ledger Wallet set up securely.
Quick summary
- Always download the app from the official Ledger site.
- Never share your recovery phrase with anyone — Ledger will never ask for it.
- Use the Recovery Check app to verify your backup.
1. Download and install Ledger Wallet (Ledger Live)
Only download Ledger Wallet from the official Ledger pages or from the official App Stores. Fake apps are a common attack vector. Confirm the domain and checksum if provided.
Visit the official download page and choose the desktop or mobile option for your platform. Follow the installer instructions. The app will guide you to pick your device model (e.g., Nano S Plus, Nano X) during initial setup.
Step-by-step
- Open the official Ledger download page on your browser.
- Download the correct installer for your OS (Windows / macOS / Linux / iOS / Android).
- Install and open the Ledger Wallet app. When prompted, follow the on-screen setup instructions.
2. First-time setup: initialize or restore
Initialize new device
If your Ledger device is brand-new, the device will guide you to set a PIN and generate a 24-word recovery phrase. Write that phrase down — never store it digitally.
Restore from recovery phrase
If you're restoring a wallet from an existing recovery phrase, use the Ledger device's restore option. Confirm you type the correct words in order. After restoring, open Ledger Wallet to re-add accounts and sync balances.
Important
Once your device is initialized or restored, you'll pair it with the Ledger Wallet app to manage accounts, send/receive crypto, and update firmware.
3. Login / Connect: how Ledger Wallet communicates with your device
Ledger Wallet does not use a traditional email/password login for your crypto accounts. The app pairs with your hardware device. "Login" is effectively the action of connecting your physical device and authorizing requests (via the device screen and buttons).
Authorize transactions
Every send/swap/stake requires manual approval on the Ledger device itself — this is your final security checkpoint. If anything in the app asks for your seed phrase, it is a scam.
4. Security checklist (must-read)
Before moving funds
- Buy devices from authorized sellers and keep purchase proof.
- Confirm the device boots and displays the Ledger logo.
- Record your 24-word recovery phrase on paper (never digitally).
- Use the Recovery Check app to verify your phrase display on the device.
- Keep firmware updated but avoid installing unknown third-party firmware.
Common scams & red flags
Phishing websites, fraudulent apps, or unsolicited messages requesting your seed phrase are the most common scams. If you see a prompt to enter your 24-word phrase into any software or website, stop immediately.
5. Add accounts & manage crypto
With Ledger Wallet open and your device connected, use the app to add supported coins and tokens. Ledger supports thousands of assets; check the supported list when adding a new currency.
Third-party apps
For some blockchains you may connect third-party wallets through Ledger (for example, to access certain dApps). Only use well-known, trusted integrations and verify URLs carefully.
6. Restore, backup and Recovery Check
Practicing a recovery restore on a spare device (or using the Recovery Check app) helps ensure your 24-word backup is correct. Contingency planning can save you from losing access to funds.
What if you lose your device?
Your crypto is recoverable with your 24-word phrase. Keep that phrase secure and split if necessary (e.g., using safe deposit boxes), but do NOT type it into any website.
7. Daily workflows & best habits
Everyday security habits
- Keep software and firmware up to date from official sources.
- Use separate devices or accounts for high-value holdings and day-to-day holdings if desired.
- Double-check addresses before sending — consider address verification tools.
Using Ledger for DeFi & NFTs
When interacting with DeFi or signing transactions in dApps, inspect every detail in the Ledger device prompts. Authorize only what you intend.
8. Further reading & official resources
Below are official resources and pages you may need for download, setup, support and security. Use them as your primary sources of truth.
Pro tip
Bookmark the official Ledger support pages and the official download URL. If you ever think you've installed a fake app or been targeted, disconnect, power off the device, and contact official support immediately.