What is Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is the official management application for Ledger hardware wallets. Available on desktop and mobile, Ledger Live connects with your Ledger device so you can send, receive, swap, stake, and monitor cryptocurrencies while your private keys remain securely stored on the device.
Key Features
- Secure transaction signing: Every transaction is signed on-device to keep private keys offline.
- Portfolio overview: See balances, value changes, and transaction history across multiple accounts.
- Built-in swaps & integrations: Exchange supported assets inside the app via trusted partners.
- Staking & rewards: Stake supported coins from Ledger Live and earn rewards while maintaining custody.
- App & firmware management: Install coin-specific apps on your Ledger device and update firmware securely.
- Cross-platform: Desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux) and mobile (iOS, Android) versions keep your experience consistent.
- Privacy controls: Features like coin control and verification reduce information leakage and enhance user privacy.
How to Get Started
- Visit the official Ledger site and download Ledger Live for your platform.
- Install and open Ledger Live, then connect your Ledger hardware wallet (USB or Bluetooth for supported models).
- Unlock the device with your PIN and follow the app’s guided setup to add accounts.
- Install necessary coin apps on the device via Ledger Live and confirm any transaction on the device screen before sending.
Security Best Practices
- Only download Ledger Live from ledger.com or official app stores.
- Never enter or store your 24-word recovery phrase on a computer, phone, or online service.
- Verify addresses and amounts on the Ledger device screen before approving transactions.
- Use a strong PIN and consider enabling an optional passphrase for an extra wallet layer.
- Keep Ledger Live and device firmware updated to receive security patches and improvements.
- Store your recovery phrase offline in a secure and separate location from your device.
Troubleshooting
Ledger Live doesn't detect my device
Try a different USB cable or port, ensure your device is unlocked, restart Ledger Live, or reinstall the app from the official source. For Bluetooth pairing (Nano X), re-pair in the mobile app and check Bluetooth permissions.
Firmware or app update failures
Do not disconnect the device during updates. If an update fails, follow the official recovery instructions inside Ledger Live and retry. Always update from the official app.
Swap or transaction issues
Check network status and fees for the asset. Retry with adjusted fees or try an alternate integrated provider. Always confirm details on the device display.
FAQ
Is Ledger Live free?
Yes — Ledger Live is free to download and use. Third-party services (swaps, staking providers) may charge fees.
Can I use Ledger Live without a Ledger device?
No. Ledger Live is a companion app for Ledger hardware wallets. The device is required to sign transactions and access funds.
How do I restore accounts on Ledger Live?
Restore a wallet by initializing a new Ledger device with your recovery phrase, then connect the device to Ledger Live — your accounts will reappear based on the seed.
Conclusion
Ledger Live brings convenience and advanced features to Ledger hardware wallet users without compromising security. By requiring on-device confirmations and keeping private keys offline, Ledger Live provides a reliable way to manage and grow your crypto holdings safely.