Ledger® Live — Getting Started | Official Ledger Wallet App
Introduction to Ledger® Live
In the fast-evolving world of digital assets, security, transparency, and control are no longer optional—they are essential. As cryptocurrencies continue to redefine how value is stored and transferred, users need reliable tools that simplify asset management without compromising safety. Ledger® Live, the official wallet application from Ledger®, delivers exactly that.
Designed to work seamlessly with Ledger hardware wallets, Ledger® Live is an all-in-one application that allows users to securely buy, sell, swap, stake, and manage cryptocurrencies from a single interface. Whether you are new to crypto or an experienced investor managing a diverse portfolio, Ledger® Live provides the confidence and control needed to navigate the blockchain ecosystem safely.
This guide offers a complete getting-started walkthrough, explaining what Ledger® Live is, how it works, how to set it up, and how to use its key features efficiently.
What Is Ledger® Live?
Ledger® Live is the official desktop and mobile application developed by Ledger®, a global leader in hardware wallet security. The app acts as a secure interface between your Ledger hardware wallet and the blockchain.
Unlike online wallets or exchanges, Ledger® Live does not store your private keys. Instead, your keys remain protected inside your Ledger hardware wallet, ensuring full ownership and maximum security.
Key Purposes of Ledger® Live
Manage crypto assets securely
View balances and transaction history in real time
Send and receive cryptocurrencies
Buy, sell, and swap digital assets
Stake supported cryptocurrencies
Install and manage blockchain apps on your Ledger device
Ledger® Live combines ease of use, advanced security, and broad crypto support—making it the official companion app for Ledger wallets.
Why Choose Ledger® Live?
🌈 Unmatched Security
Ledger® Live works exclusively with Ledger hardware wallets, which isolate private keys from internet-connected devices. This protects your assets from malware, phishing, and hacking attempts.
🚀 All-in-One Crypto Management
No need for multiple apps. Ledger® Live supports thousands of coins and tokens, allowing users to manage everything from Bitcoin and Ethereum to NFTs and DeFi assets.
🎨 User-Friendly Interface
Despite its powerful features, Ledger® Live remains intuitive and beginner-friendly, with clear navigation and real-time portfolio tracking.
🔐 You Own Your Keys
Ledger® Live follows a strict self-custody model. You remain the sole owner of your crypto assets at all times.
Supported Platforms
Ledger® Live is available on multiple platforms, ensuring flexibility and accessibility:
Desktop: Windows, macOS, Linux
Mobile: iOS and Android
This cross-platform availability allows you to manage your crypto portfolio whether you’re at home or on the move.
Getting Started with Ledger® Live
Step 1: Download Ledger® Live
Always download Ledger® Live from the official Ledger website or verified app stores to avoid counterfeit software.
Desktop users download the installer directly
Mobile users install the app via Apple App Store or Google Play Store
⚠️ Security Tip: Never download Ledger® Live from third-party websites or links shared via email or social media.
Step 2: Install and Launch the App
After installation:
Open Ledger® Live
Select “Get Started”
Choose your Ledger hardware wallet model (Nano S Plus, Nano X, etc.)
The app will guide you step by step through the setup process.
Step 3: Set Up Your Ledger Hardware Wallet
If you are a new user:
Initialize your Ledger device
Create a PIN code
Securely write down your 24-word recovery phrase
If you already own a Ledger wallet:
Choose “Restore from recovery phrase”
Enter your 24 words directly on the hardware device
🔐 Important: Never share your recovery phrase. Ledger will never ask for it.
Step 4: Connect Ledger® Live to Your Device
Connect your Ledger wallet via:
USB (desktop)
Bluetooth (Nano X with mobile)
Ledger® Live will verify your device’s authenticity and confirm it’s running genuine Ledger firmware.
Adding Accounts in Ledger® Live
Once connected, you can begin managing crypto assets.
How to Add an Account
Open Ledger® Live
Navigate to Accounts
Click Add Account
Select the cryptocurrency
Install the required blockchain app on your Ledger device
Confirm account creation
Repeat this process for each cryptocurrency you wish to manage.
Sending and Receiving Crypto
📥 Receiving Crypto
Select the asset
Click Receive
Verify the address on your Ledger device
Share the address with the sender
📤 Sending Crypto
Choose the account
Click Send
Enter the recipient’s address and amount
Confirm the transaction on your Ledger device
Every transaction must be physically approved, ensuring maximum security.
Buying Crypto with Ledger® Live
Ledger® Live integrates trusted third-party providers, allowing users to buy crypto directly within the app.
Benefits of Buying in Ledger® Live
Funds are sent directly to your hardware wallet
No need to move assets from exchanges
Supports multiple payment methods
Available assets and providers may vary by region.
Selling and Swapping Crypto
🔄 Swap
Ledger® Live allows instant crypto swaps without leaving the app. You maintain custody of your funds while exchanging assets securely.
💰 Sell
Users can sell crypto and receive fiat currency through supported providers, depending on location.
Staking with Ledger® Live
Ledger® Live supports staking for several cryptocurrencies, allowing users to earn rewards while keeping assets secure.
Popular Staking Assets
Ethereum (ETH)
Solana (SOL)
Polkadot (DOT)
Tezos (XTZ)
Cosmos (ATOM)
Staking through Ledger® Live ensures your private keys remain offline at all times.
Managing NFTs
Ledger® Live also supports NFT management on Ethereum and Polygon networks.
NFT Features
Secure storage of NFTs
View collections directly in Ledger® Live
Sign NFT transactions securely
This makes Ledger® Live a powerful tool for both crypto and digital collectibles.
Portfolio Tracking and Analytics
Ledger® Live provides a clear, real-time overview of your portfolio:
Total balance
Asset allocation
Price changes
Performance over time
These analytics help users make informed decisions without relying on third-party tracking tools.
Security Best Practices
To maximize safety while using Ledger® Live:
Always verify addresses on your Ledger device
Never enter your recovery phrase online
Keep your Ledger firmware updated
Ignore emails claiming your wallet is “compromised”
Use only official Ledger channels
Ledger® Live is secure by design, but user vigilance remains essential.
Updating Ledger® Live and Firmware
Ledger frequently releases updates to enhance performance and security.
How to Update
Open Ledger® Live
Navigate to Manager
Follow on-screen instructions for app and firmware updates
Updates ensure compatibility with new networks and features.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Device Not Recognized
Check cable or Bluetooth connection
Restart Ledger® Live and device
Ensure firmware is up to date
Transaction Stuck
Network congestion may cause delays
Adjust transaction fees if supported
Monitor blockchain confirmations
Ledger® Live offers built-in help and official support resources if needed.
Who Should Use Ledger® Live?
Ledger® Live is ideal for:
Beginners entering crypto safely
Long-term investors
Active traders seeking self-custody
NFT collectors
Staking participants
Anyone who values security, control, and simplicity will benefit from Ledger® Live.
Ledger® Live vs Online Wallets
FeatureLedger® LiveOnline WalletsPrivate Key Control✅ Yes❌ NoHardware Security✅ Yes❌ NoOffline Storage✅ Yes❌ NoHacking RiskLowHigh
Ledger® Live clearly stands apart by offering true self-custody.
Future of Ledger® Live
Ledger continues to expand Ledger® Live with:
New blockchain integrations
Enhanced DeFi tools
Improved NFT support
Advanced analytics
The app evolves alongside the crypto ecosystem while maintaining Ledger’s core security philosophy.