Ledger® Live App®— Getting Started | Official Wallet App

CRITICAL SECURITY WARNING: Your 24-word Secret Recovery Phrase is your master key. Never enter these words into any website, app, or email. Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase. Only enter it directly onto the physical screen of your hardware device during recovery.

Welcome to the gateway of secure digital asset management. As of 2026, the Ledger® Live App® (now transitioning to the unified Ledger Wallet™ ecosystem) serves as the industry-standard interface for anyone serious about cold storage. Whether you are using the classic Nano S Plus, the Bluetooth-enabled Nano X, or the new touch-screen Ledger Stax or Ledger Flex, this app is your command center.

Why Ledger Live is the Gold Standard in 2026

In an era dominated by AI-driven phishing and complex decentralized exploits, the Ledger ecosystem provides a "Secure Element" barrier that separates your private keys from the internet. The app doesn't store your keys; instead, it acts as a bridge, allowing you to sign transactions safely. Every movement of funds requires a physical press of a button on your device, ensuring that even if your computer or smartphone is compromised, your assets remain untouched.

New Features in the 2026 Update:

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Getting started is designed to be intuitive. Follow these verified steps to ensure you are using an authentic version of the software:

1. Download & Verification

Navigate to the official download portal. It is highly recommended to verify the SHA-512 signatures of the installer to ensure the file hasn't been tampered with during transit. The app is available for Windows (64-bit), macOS (v12.0+), and Linux (AppImage).

2. Device Initialization

Connect your hardware signer using the provided USB-C cable. If you have a new device, select "Set up as new device". You will be prompted to choose a 4-8 digit PIN. This PIN is local to the device and protects it from unauthorized physical access.

3. The Recovery Phrase

Your device will display 24 words. Write these down on the provided recovery sheet and store them in a fireproof, waterproof location. This phrase is the only way to recover your funds if your physical device is lost or broken.

Managing Your Assets

Once your device is paired, use the "My Ledger" tab to install "apps" for specific coins. For example, to manage Bitcoin, you must install the Bitcoin app on your hardware device. These apps occupy space on the hardware signer but do not contain your funds—they contain the cryptographic instructions for that specific blockchain.

To receive funds, click "Receive" in the app, select your account, and verify that the address displayed on your computer screen matches the address on your Ledger device’s screen. Never skip this manual verification step.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use Ledger Live without a hardware wallet?

No. Ledger Live is a companion app. It requires a physical Ledger signer (Nano, Stax, or Flex) to authorize any transactions. You can, however, use it in "Watch-only" mode to track your portfolio without the device connected.

2. What should I do if my Ledger Live app says my device is "not genuine"?

If the Genuine Check fails, immediately stop using the device and contact official support. Authentic Ledger devices undergo a cryptographic handshake with Ledger servers to ensure they haven't been tampered with during manufacturing or shipping.

3. Does Bluetooth connectivity expose my keys?

No. The Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) connection used by the Nano X, Stax, and Flex only transmits public data. Your private keys never leave the Secure Element chip, and all transactions must still be physically confirmed by pressing buttons on the device.

4. How do I update my firmware safely?

Firmware updates are exclusively handled through the "My Ledger" section of the official app. Ensure your device is connected via USB for updates, as Bluetooth updates are generally restricted for security stability.

5. Can I use Ledger Live on my smartphone?

Yes. Ledger Live Mobile is available on the iOS App Store and Google Play. You can sync your desktop accounts to your mobile app by scanning a secure QR code from the desktop settings menu.

Ledger® Live App®— Getting Started | Official Wallet App