Why Ledger Live (Ledger Wallet™) matters
Ledger Live (now presented as Ledger Wallet™ by Ledger) is the official desktop and mobile interface for managing accounts, approving transactions with your hardware device, and checking balances while keeping private keys offline. Always obtain the Ledger Wallet app from Ledger’s official site or official app stores to avoid fake installers and credential-stealing malware. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Quick start: download, connect, and login
1 — Download only from official sources
Visit the official Ledger Wallet download page and pick the installer for your OS. Ledger publishes download signatures so you can verify binaries before installation — use them if you want an extra security step. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
2 — Connect your device and choose “Get started”
Open the Ledger Wallet app, connect your Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, etc.), and follow the on-screen “Get started” prompts. If you’re new, initialize the device and write down your recovery phrase on the included recovery sheet — never store it digitally. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Step-by-step checklist
- Download Ledger Wallet from ledger.com/start (official).
- Verify the installer hash (optional but recommended).
- Connect device, enter PIN on device only — not on your computer.
- Approve actions on the hardware device screen (always verify amounts & addresses).
- Keep firmware & app up to date via Ledger Wallet update prompts. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Secure login practices (do these every time)
Keep the secrets offline
Ledger devices store private keys on the device. Your 24-word recovery phrase (seed) must remain offline, never typed into a website or app. Anyone who asks for your seed phrase is trying to steal your funds — Ledger and legitimate services never ask for it. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Verify app authenticity and updates
Only accept firmware or app update prompts that come from the Ledger Wallet app when your device is connected. Ledger documents official firmware update flows and recovery practices on its support portal. If you see a request asking for a seed phrase to “fix” an error, it’s fraudulent. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Use PIN + passphrase for layered security
A strong PIN protects the device; an optional passphrase (25th word) can create an additional hidden account. Learn and test these features in a low-risk environment before relying on them for high-value holdings.
Troubleshooting common login issues
App won’t detect the device
Try a different USB cable/port, enable USB permissions (on Linux), and make sure the device is unlocked (PIN entered). Reinstall Ledger Wallet from the official site if necessary. Don’t use copies from third-party download mirrors. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Update stuck during firmware upgrade
If an update fails, follow Ledger’s official recovery steps in the Support Center. Avoid improvising fixes suggested by unknown sources. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Extra safety tips
Backup strategy
Write the recovery phrase on paper or store it on metal backup plates designed for seed phrases. Consider geographically separated backups (trusted locations or safe deposit box) to prevent single-point loss from theft, fire, or disaster. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Phishing & fake apps
Attackers distribute counterfeit Ledger installers and phishing sites. Always confirm you’re on ledger.com and double-check the domain. Use bookmarks for official pages to avoid typosquatting. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Official resources (10 colored official links)
Use these official Ledger links — each styled with a different color so you can spot them quickly on the page.