What is Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is a desktop and mobile application that lets you securely manage your cryptocurrency assets with Ledger hardware wallets (Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus, and Nano X). Ledger Live connects to your physical device to sign transactions offline, display balances, install apps on the device, and let you interact with popular blockchains and decentralized applications.
Why use Ledger Live?
Ledger Live provides a single interface to:
- View portfolio balances and transaction history.
- Send and receive crypto with secure, device-signed transactions.
- Install and remove blockchain apps on Ledger hardware devices.
- Access staking, swap, and other integrated services (availability varies by asset and region).
Official source
Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website to avoid phishing: https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live
Download & Install Ledger Live
Before you start, confirm you have a supported Ledger hardware wallet and a compatible computer or smartphone. Ledger Live is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and iOS.
Step 1 — Download only from official sources
Phishing sites often mimic the Ledger name. Always use the official Ledger Live page to download the app: https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live
Step 2 — Choose the right platform
Select the platform version matching your device. For desktops, choose the stable installer (.exe, .dmg, .AppImage). For mobile, use the official App Store or Google Play links available on the official Ledger Live page: https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live
Step 3 — Install and run
Follow the OS-specific installer prompts. On the first run you’ll be prompted to connect a Ledger hardware wallet or to use Ledger Live in “view-only” mode if you prefer not to connect a device immediately.
Tip: Verify the app signature (advanced)
Power users can verify the installer checksum or signature (when Ledger provides them) to ensure file integrity.
First Login & Setup
Ledger Live doesn’t create or store your seed phrase. Your seed phrase is created on the Ledger hardware wallet during the initial device setup. Ledger Live is the interface to interact with accounts derived from that seed.
Step 1 — Prepare your Ledger device
If your device is new, power it on and follow the on-device prompts to create a PIN and generate a recovery phrase (24 words by default for Ledger devices). Write the recovery phrase on the official recovery sheet; do not store it digitally.
Step 2 — Connect to Ledger Live
Open Ledger Live and choose "Get started". When prompted, connect and unlock your Ledger device, then open the Ledger Live (or corresponding) app on the device to authorize the connection. Ledger Live will guide you with on-screen prompts.
Step 3 — Create or restore accounts
Use Ledger Live to add accounts for the blockchains you plan to use (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). If restoring from an existing seed, follow the Ledger device’s restore workflow during device initialization — the seed lives only on the device.
Note on passphrase (optional)
An optional passphrase adds an extra layer of security (like a 25th word). If you enable it, you must remember the passphrase exactly — loss of the passphrase means loss of access to that hidden account.
Security Tips & Best Practices
Security is the core reason to use a hardware wallet. Follow these best practices to protect funds:
1. Never share your 24-word recovery phrase
Ledger staff will never ask for your recovery phrase. If anyone asks, it’s a scam. Keep recovery words offline and never enter them into software or websites.
2. Always verify addresses on-device
When sending funds, confirm the destination address on your Ledger device screen before approving the transaction in Ledger Live. This prevents address-hijacking attacks.
3. Keep firmware and Ledger Live up to date
Ledger periodically releases firmware and Ledger Live updates that add features and fix vulnerabilities. Apply updates only from the official Ledger Live update prompts or from the official site: https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live
4. Use a secure PIN
Use a unique PIN on your hardware wallet; do not use simple sequences. The device will wipe after repeated wrong attempts (this protects your seed).
5. Consider a steel backup
For long-term storage, consider recording your recovery phrase on a steel backup plate to protect against fire, water, and physical degradation.
6. Beware of phishing & fake support
Always contact official Ledger support and use official documentation from Ledger’s site. Bookmark the official Ledger page: https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live
Managing Accounts & Transactions
Ledger Live makes everyday account management straightforward once your device is connected and accounts are added.
Adding an account
Click "Add account", choose the asset (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.), and open the corresponding app on your Ledger device. Ledger Live will scan for existing addresses and import the account.
Receiving funds
To receive crypto, open the account in Ledger Live, click "Receive", and verify the address on your Ledger device. Always confirm the address on-device before sharing it with a sender.
Sending funds
Create a transaction in Ledger Live, double-check amounts and fees, then confirm the full destination address on your hardware device before approving.
Exploring extra features
Ledger Live may integrate staking, swapping, and third-party integrations depending on region and asset. Check the official Ledger Live features page for availability: https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live
Backups & exports
Ledger Live allows you to export account information and transaction history for bookkeeping. These exports do not include private keys or recovery phrases.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Ledger Live won’t detect my device
Try these steps:
- Use an official, data-capable USB cable and a working USB port.
- Unlock the Ledger device and open the correct app (e.g., Bitcoin app) before connecting.
- Restart Ledger Live and your computer, and reinstall Ledger Live from the official site if needed: https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live
Transactions pending or stuck
Network congestion can delay confirmations. Check transaction status on the blockchain explorer using the transaction hash. If a transaction is unconfirmed for an extended period, you may need to consult network-specific guidance.
Firmware update failed
Ensure your device battery (if applicable) has sufficient charge, and that you are using the official Ledger Live installer. If failure persists, reach out to official Ledger support; always reference the official site: https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Ledger Live free to use?
Yes — Ledger Live is free to download and use. Some integrated services (swaps, staking, third-party services) may carry fees from service providers.
Can I use Ledger Live without a Ledger device?
You can install Ledger Live and explore some features in view-only modes, but a Ledger device is required to sign transactions and access private keys.
Where to get official help and documentation?
The official Ledger support and documentation are available on Ledger’s website. For downloads, updates, and support, always reference the official Ledger Live page: https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live
What if I lose my Ledger device?
As long as you have your recovery phrase, you can restore access to your funds on a new compatible device. If you lose both the device and your recovery phrase, there is no way to recover funds.
How many accounts can I add?
You can add many accounts. Ledger Live organizes them per blockchain and per derivation; check asset-specific limits or recommendations in the official docs: https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live
Quick Reference: Do’s & Don’ts
Do
- Download Ledger Live only from the official Ledger site. (see official page repeatedly above)
- Verify addresses on your hardware device screen.
- Store your recovery phrase offline and consider a steel backup.
- Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated using official channels.
Don’t
- Share your 24-word recovery phrase or enter it on any website.
- Use download links from unknown emails or social media DMs.
- Store your recovery phrase in cloud notes or photos.
Conclusion & Next Steps
Ledger Live is the official application to securely manage hardware-wallet-protected crypto assets. By following the steps above — downloading from the official source, securing your recovery phrase, verifying addresses on-device, and keeping software up-to-date — you’ll be well on your way to safely managing cryptocurrency.
Ready to begin? Download Ledger Live and follow setup instructions at the official Ledger Live page: Open Ledger Live Official Page