Your step-by-step onboarding guide to securely managing crypto with Ledger Live and hardware wallets.
1. Prepare for Setup
Before diving into the app, make sure you have:
A Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S, Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax), unopened and tamper-free.
A computer or mobile device (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android).
Always go to ledger.com/start to download Ledger Live—ensuring security and authenticity.:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
2. Download & Launch Ledger Live
Choose the correct platform and download from the official site only:
Desktop: Windows, macOS, or Linux
Mobile: iOS or Android
Install and launch the app. The welcome screen will prompt you to begin setup.:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
3. Set Up Your Ledger Wallet
Select your device model (e.g., Nano X, Nano S Plus) and click “Get started.”
Choose between:
Set up as new: For creating new private keys and recovery phrase.
Restore from recovery phrase: To import existing wallet using 24‑word seed.
Ledger Recover (optional): If you're enrolled in the recovery service.:contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Follow the device prompts to:
Set a 4‑ to 8‑digit PIN
Write down the 24‑word recovery phrase on the provided sheet—never digitally.
Confirm random words when prompted to ensure accuracy.:contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
4. Verify Device Authenticity
In Ledger Live, complete the security checklist:
Click “Check my Nano” to verify device authenticity via Ledger’s secure server.
Confirm on the device when prompted. A confirmation message indicates “All Good!”
This step ensures your device isn't counterfeit.:contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
5. (Optional) Secure with Application Password
For added privacy, you can set an app password (and enable biometrics on supported mobile devices). Losing the password may require resetting Ledger Live and re‑adding your accounts, but your crypto remains safe.:contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
6. Install Crypto Apps & Add Accounts
Access the Manager section to install apps for supported cryptocurrencies (e.g., BTC, ETH, SOL).
Go to Add Account, select your coin, and follow prompts—confirming account on your device.
You’re now set up to manage assets securely through Ledger Live.:contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
7. Start Managing Your Crypto
With everything set up, Ledger Live empowers you to:
Send and receive assets securely (each action requires confirmation on the hardware device)
Buy, sell, swap crypto via trusted partners
Stake supported coins to earn rewards
Manage NFTs and connect to DeFi apps safely
Everything stays secure—your private keys remain offline on the device.:contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
8. Stay Secure: Best Practices
Security Alert: Fake Ledger apps are being used, especially on macOS, to trick users into entering their seed phrase. Ledger will never request your 24‑word recovery phrase. Download only from ledger.com.:contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Additional guidance from the community:
“Never share your 24‑word secret recovery phrase with anyone or enter it anywhere… Only keep the recovery phrase as a physical paper or metal backup…”:contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
9. Sync Between Desktop and Mobile
You can sync accounts between desktop and mobile Ledger Live using Ledger Sync:
Export accounts from desktop
Import via QR code on mobile (or pair via Bluetooth for Nano X)
Note: Accounts are not automatically shared—you need to perform this sync.:contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}