Ledger® Live — Getting Started | Official Ledger Wallet App

Ledger® Live is the official desktop and mobile application designed to work seamlessly with Ledger hardware wallets. It serves as a secure gateway for managing cryptocurrencies, tracking portfolio performance, installing apps, and interacting with blockchain services—all while keeping private keys safely offline. Whether you are new to crypto or an experienced investor, Ledger Live offers a reliable and user-friendly environment to manage digital assets with confidence.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know to get started with Ledger Live, from installation and setup to essential features and security best practices.

What Is Ledger® Live?

Ledger Live is an all-in-one companion app for Ledger hardware wallets such as Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, and Ledger Stax. Unlike software wallets that store private keys on your computer or phone, Ledger Live works alongside a physical device that securely stores your keys offline. This design dramatically reduces exposure to malware, phishing attacks, and unauthorized access.

With Ledger Live, users can:

• Set up and manage Ledger hardware wallets

• Buy, sell, swap, and stake cryptocurrencies

• Install and manage blockchain apps on the device

• View real-time balances and transaction history

• Manage NFTs across supported blockchains

• Access Web3 and DeFi services securely

Supported Platforms

Ledger Live is available on multiple platforms to ensure flexibility and convenience:

• Desktop: Windows, macOS, and Linux

• Mobile: iOS and Android

The desktop version is recommended for initial setup, firmware updates, and app installations, while the mobile app offers portability and everyday access to your crypto accounts.

Getting Started with Ledger Live

Step 1: Download Ledger Live

To begin, download Ledger Live only from the official Ledger website. This is crucial to avoid counterfeit or malicious software. Choose the correct version for your operating system and complete the installation process.

Once installed, launch the app to begin setup.

Step 2: Set Up Your Ledger Device

When opening Ledger Live for the first time, you’ll be prompted to connect your Ledger hardware wallet.

You can choose to:

• Set up a new device

• Restore an existing wallet using a recovery phrase

If you are setting up a new device, Ledger Live will guide you through creating a PIN and generating a 24-word recovery phrase directly on your Ledger device screen.

Important: The recovery phrase is the only backup of your wallet. Write it down offline and store it securely. Never share it with anyone or store it digitally.

Step 3: Verify Device Authenticity

Ledger Live automatically checks whether your device is genuine. This verification ensures that your Ledger hardware wallet has not been tampered with and is running official firmware. This step reinforces trust and protects you from compromised devices.

Step 4: Create a Ledger Live Password

You’ll be asked to create a password for Ledger Live. This password protects access to the app on your computer or phone. While it does not replace your recovery phrase, it adds an extra layer of protection if someone gains access to your device.

Installing Apps on Your Ledger Device

Ledger hardware wallets use individual apps for each blockchain (such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.). Ledger Live makes app management simple.

1. Open Ledger Live

2. Navigate to the My Ledger section

3. Connect and unlock your Ledger device

4. Install the apps you need

Apps can be installed or removed at any time without affecting your funds. Removing an app does not delete your crypto; your assets always remain on the blockchain.

Adding Crypto Accounts

After installing blockchain apps, you can add accounts to Ledger Live:

• Go to Accounts

• Select Add account

• Choose the cryptocurrency

• Confirm on your Ledger device

Ledger Live will synchronize with the blockchain and display your balance, transaction history, and account details.

You can add multiple accounts for the same cryptocurrency, which is useful for organization or privacy.

Sending and Receiving Cryptocurrency

Receiving Crypto

To receive funds:

1. Select the account

2. Click Receive

3. Verify the address on your Ledger device

4. Share the verified address with the sender

Always confirm the address on the physical device screen to prevent address-replacement malware attacks.

Sending Crypto

To send funds:

1. Choose the account

2. Click Send

3. Enter the recipient address and amount

4. Review transaction details

5. Confirm on your Ledger device

Every transaction must be physically approved on the Ledger device, ensuring no transfer can occur without your consent.

Buying, Selling, and Swapping Crypto

Ledger Live integrates trusted third-party services that allow users to:

• Buy crypto using bank cards or transfers

• Sell crypto directly to supported payment methods

• Swap assets without leaving the app

These services are optional and clearly labeled. Ledger does not store your funds or payment details—your assets remain under your control at all times.

Staking and Earning Rewards

Ledger Live supports staking for several cryptocurrencies, allowing users to earn rewards while keeping assets secure.

Popular supported staking assets include:

• Ethereum (ETH)

• Solana (SOL)

• Polkadot (DOT)

• Tezos (XTZ)

Staking through Ledger Live ensures that your private keys never leave your device, even while participating in network validation or delegation.

Managing NFTs

Ledger Live supports NFT management on major blockchains like Ethereum and Polygon. Users can:

• View NFT collections

• Secure NFTs with hardware-level protection

• Send and receive NFTs safely

NFT transactions also require physical confirmation on your Ledger device, protecting high-value digital collectibles.

Security Features of Ledger Live

Ledger Live is built with security as a top priority:

• Private keys never leave the Ledger device

• Offline key storage using Secure Element technology

• Clear transaction verification on device screen

• Password-protected app access

• Regular firmware and app updates

Ledger Live does not collect sensitive personal data or store recovery phrases. You remain the sole custodian of your assets.

Best Practices for Safe Use

To maximize security when using Ledger Live:

• Only download Ledger Live from the official source

• Never share your 24-word recovery phrase

• Ignore emails or messages asking for wallet details

• Keep your Ledger device firmware up to date

• Store your recovery phrase offline in multiple secure locations

These habits significantly reduce the risk of loss or theft.

Why Choose Ledger® Live?

Ledger Live combines usability with industry-leading security. It eliminates the need for multiple wallets and platforms by offering a unified interface for managing digital assets securely.

Key benefits include:

• Full control over your private keys

• Wide cryptocurrency and NFT support

• Integrated buying, selling, and staking

• Trusted by millions of users worldwide

• Backed by Ledger’s proven hardware security

Conclusion

Ledger® Live is the official and essential companion app for Ledger hardware wallets, offering a powerful yet secure way to manage cryptocurrencies and digital assets. From initial setup to advanced features like staking and NFT management, Ledger Live provides everything you need in one trusted platform—without compromising control or security.

By following proper setup steps and best practices, Ledger Live empowers you to take full ownership of your crypto journey with confidence and peace of mind.