Guide This in-depth guide walks you through the Ledger Live app download, setup, and the best security practices for managing crypto with Ledger Nano X and Ledger Nano S Plus. Whether you need to understand Secure Element, BOLOS, Bluetooth Connectivity, Recovery Phrase handling, Multi-Currency Support, DeFi Integration, NFT Support, Firmware Updates, or Ledger Recover — this article covers everything in clear, actionable steps.

Why use Ledger Live with Ledger Nano X or Ledger Nano S Plus?

The Ledger Live app is the central hub for your Ledger hardware wallet. It connects securely to devices like Ledger Nano X and Ledger Nano S Plus, enabling account management, transactions, and firmware updates. Ledger Live pairs the hardware security of the Secure Element and the BOLOS operating system with a modern user interface — so you can safely hold crypto while enjoying Multi-Currency Support and features such as DeFi Integration and NFT Support.

Quick features snapshot

• Ledger Nano X — mobile-ready with Bluetooth Connectivity for on-the-go management.
• Ledger Nano S Plus — compact, USB-first device with full app capacity.
• Secure Element + BOLOS — hardware and OS security layers for private key protection.
• Recovery Phrase — your single most important backup (learn how to secure it below).
• Multi-Currency Support — Bitcoin, Ethereum, stablecoins and thousands of tokens and NFTs.
• DeFi Integration — connect to DeFi dApps while keeping keys offline.
• NFT Support — view and manage NFTs in Ledger Live (and compatible viewers).
• Firmware Updates — update device firmware safely through Ledger Live for the latest security patches.
• Ledger Recover — optional recovery services to restore a lost recovery phrase (opt-in only).

Step 1 — Download Ledger Live (official link)

Grab the app from the official source — the safest way to get Ledger Live is from the manufacturer. Start at the official Ledger website and follow the download links for your operating system. Use the link in the header for the official site to avoid phishing: Ledger Live on Ledger.com.

Step 2 — Set up Ledger Live with Ledger Nano X or Nano S Plus

After installing Ledger Live, follow these steps to pair your device and initialize accounts:

1. Open Ledger Live and select Get Started, then choose your device: Ledger Nano X or Ledger Nano S Plus.
2. On your device follow the on-screen prompts to create a new wallet or restore an existing wallet with your Recovery Phrase.
3. Ledger Live will ask to install apps (for example, Bitcoin, Ethereum). Install only apps you need; this preserves device storage and security.
4. Create a Ledger Live password and enable any optional features such as analytics or automatic firmware checks.

Step 3 — Accounts, Multi-Currency Support & DeFi Integration

Ledger Live supports many blockchains and tokens. Add accounts for each of your assets via the Accounts tab. For DeFi, use Ledger Live plus a Web3 wallet connection flow (the device signs transactions offline). This gives you secure DeFi Integration while your private keys remain inside the Secure Element and BOLOS environment.

Security best practices

Security is why people choose a hardware wallet. Follow these essential rules:

• Keep your Recovery Phrase offline. Write it on the card provided or use a metal backup. Never store the recovery phrase in cloud storage, photos, or text files.
• Verify every transaction on your Ledger device screen. Ledger Live displays transaction details, but the final check on the device is critical — the Secure Element and BOLOS show the address and amount for confirmation.
• Use official firmware updates through Ledger Live. Firmware Updates are signed and delivered through the official channel to protect your device.
• Beware of phishing: Ledger support will never ask for your Recovery Phrase. Treat any unsolicited messages or links with caution.
• Bluetooth Connectivity on Ledger Nano X is convenient — but if you value absolute air-gapped security, use USB or disable Bluetooth in settings.

Managing NFTs and Multi-Currency assets

Ledger Live supports NFTs and token standards across multiple chains. Use Ledger Live to view and manage NFTs where supported, and connect to third-party viewers for richer galleries. The combination of NFT Support and Multi-Currency Support gives collectors and traders a single interface with hardware-backed keys.

Firmware Updates & device maintenance

Ledger regularly releases firmware updates. Always update using Ledger Live, confirm update prompts on your device, and never enter your Recovery Phrase to update. Firmware Updates improve security and add support for new assets — keep devices updated but only through the official channels.

Ledger Recover — optional backing service

Ledger Recover is a value-added, optional recovery service designed to help users restore access to funds if the physical recovery phrase is lost. If you consider Ledger Recover, read the terms carefully and understand the opt-in model and any associated tradeoffs. Protecting your Recovery Phrase remains your primary responsibility; Ledger Recover is an extra layer for those who want it.

Troubleshooting common issues

If Ledger Live cannot detect your device:

• Try a different cable or USB port (for Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X).
• Ensure the device is unlocked and on the home screen.
• Disable conflicting software (VPNs, some USB security tools).
• Reinstall Ledger Live from the official website if necessary.

Advanced tips for power users

For advanced security and workflows:

• Use the Secure Element and BOLOS features to run multiple independent apps and minimize exposure.
• Partition assets across more than one device (e.g., one device for long-term cold storage, another for active trading).
• When using DeFi Integration, always check the signing payload on the device; never approve transactions you do not fully understand.
• Consider hardware backups and redundancy for your Recovery Phrase — metal seed backups resist fire and corrosion.

Why Ledger Live + Ledger devices rank among top choices

Combining Ledger Live with Ledger Nano X or Ledger Nano S Plus provides a solid balance of usability and security. The hardware-backed Secure Element, the secure operating system BOLOS, and features such as Bluetooth Connectivity (optional), wide Multi-Currency Support, integrated DeFi Integration, NFT viewing, and official Firmware Updates are why many users trust this ecosystem. Optional services like Ledger Recover add convenience for those who want it.

Final checklist before you go live

• Download Ledger Live from the official site: Ledger Live.
• Initialize your device on-device and write your Recovery Phrase on a physical medium.
• Install only the apps you need for each currency account.
• Enable firmware updates and verify them within Ledger Live.
• Use device verification for every transaction.

Use this guide as your go-to resource for Ledger Live setup, security, and advanced usage with Ledger Nano X and Ledger Nano S Plus. With correct handling of your Recovery Phrase and by following secure update practices, Ledger Live plus Ledger hardware gives you industry-leading protection for your crypto assets.