Ledger® Live — Getting Started | official Ledger Wallet App

Ledger Live is the official application developed by Ledger to manage, secure, and monitor cryptocurrency assets using Ledger hardware wallets. It acts as the control center for your Ledger device, allowing you to send, receive, buy, sell, stake, and track crypto assets while keeping private keys safely offline.

Designed with security and usability in mind, Ledger Live supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies and is trusted by millions of users worldwide.

What Is Ledger Live?

Ledger Live is a desktop and mobile application that connects directly to Ledger hardware wallets such as Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X. Unlike online or browser-based wallets, Ledger Live never stores your private keys on the internet or on your computer. All sensitive operations are performed on the hardware device and must be physically approved by the user.

Ledger Live is available for:

  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux
  • iOS
  • Android

Why Ledger Live Is Important

Ledger Live provides a secure interface that allows users to manage digital assets without relying on third-party wallets or exchanges. It simplifies crypto management while maintaining Ledger’s industry-leading security standards.

Key benefits include:

  • Offline private key protection
  • Centralized portfolio management
  • Secure firmware updates
  • Native support for staking and swaps
  • Direct integration with Ledger hardware wallets

Getting Started With Ledger Live

Download and Installation

To begin, download Ledger Live only from the official Ledger website. Installing the app from unofficial sources can expose you to phishing or malware risks.

The installation process is straightforward and guided, requiring just a few minutes.

Connecting Your Ledger Device

Once installed:

  1. Connect your Ledger hardware wallet using the provided USB cable or Bluetooth (for supported models)
  2. Open Ledger Live
  3. Select your device model and follow the on-screen instructions

Ledger Live automatically detects your device and verifies its authenticity.

Setting Up or Restoring a Wallet

Setting Up a New Wallet

If you are new to Ledger:

  • Create a PIN code on your device
  • Write down your 24-word recovery phrase
  • Verify the recovery phrase within Ledger Live

This recovery phrase is the only backup of your wallet and must be stored securely offline.

Restoring an Existing Wallet

If you already have a Ledger wallet, Ledger Live allows you to restore access using your recovery phrase. Enter the words directly on the device to ensure maximum security.

Managing Crypto Assets in Ledger Live

Ledger Live supports thousands of cryptocurrencies and tokens, including:

  • Bitcoin (BTC)
  • Ethereum (ETH)
  • Litecoin (LTC)
  • XRP
  • ERC-20 tokens
  • Many other blockchain assets

Sending and Receiving Crypto

  • Generate verified receive addresses
  • Confirm addresses on your Ledger device
  • Review and approve transactions physically

This confirmation step ensures that funds cannot be moved without your consent.

Portfolio Tracking and Insights

Ledger Live provides real-time portfolio tracking, allowing users to:

  • View balances across multiple accounts
  • Monitor asset performance
  • Track transaction history
  • Analyze portfolio distribution

All data is displayed locally, preserving user privacy.

Built-In Features of Ledger Live

Firmware Updates

Ledger Live ensures that firmware updates are authentic and verified before installation. Keeping firmware up to date is essential for maintaining device security.

Staking and Earning

Users can stake supported cryptocurrencies directly within Ledger Live, allowing them to earn rewards while maintaining full control of their assets.

Buy, Sell, and Swap

Ledger Live integrates with trusted third-party services, enabling users to buy, sell, or swap crypto without transferring assets to an exchange.

App Management

Install and manage blockchain apps directly on your Ledger device through Ledger Live.

Security Features of Ledger Live

Ledger Live is designed with strong security principles:

  • Secure Element Technology protects private keys
  • Offline key storage prevents online theft
  • Physical transaction confirmation stops unauthorized transfers
  • No account registration or personal data storage
  • Firmware integrity checks on every update

These features make Ledger Live one of the safest crypto management apps available.

Common Ledger Live Issues and Solutions

Device Not Detected

  • Try a different USB port or cable
  • Restart Ledger Live
  • Update device drivers

App Crashes or Freezes

  • Install the latest Ledger Live version
  • Restart your computer or mobile device
  • Reinstall the app if necessary

Transaction Not Showing

  • Refresh the account
  • Check network status
  • Ensure the correct blockchain app is installed on the device

Best Practices for Using Ledger Live Safely

To maintain maximum security:

  • Download Ledger Live only from official sources
  • Never share your recovery phrase
  • Verify transaction details on the device screen
  • Keep your device firmware updated
  • Beware of fake Ledger emails or websites

Ledger Live vs Exchange Wallets

Unlike exchange wallets, Ledger Live allows users to maintain full custody of their assets. Funds are not stored on centralized servers, and access is controlled solely by the hardware device and recovery phrase.

This makes Ledger Live ideal for long-term storage and secure crypto management.

Final Thoughts

Ledger Live is the official and most secure way to manage assets stored on Ledger hardware wallets. By combining powerful features with offline security and user-friendly design, Ledger Live gives users complete control over their digital wealth.