Ledger Live

Overview — Ledger Live: Secure Crypto Wallet & Portfolio Manager

Ledger Live is the official companion application for Ledger hardware wallets. It provides a secure interface for installing blockchain apps on your Ledger device, adding and managing accounts across many cryptocurrencies, signing transactions on-device, staking supported assets, and tracking your portfolio performance. By combining hardware key isolation with a user-friendly application, Ledger Live allows both beginners and power users to manage crypto assets with confidence and strong security guarantees.

Why Ledger Live matters

The defining security advantage of Ledger Live is that private keys never leave the Ledger hardware device’s Secure Element chip. Ledger Live acts as a communication and display layer — it prepares transactions and shows them to you, but transaction signing must be confirmed physically on the Ledger device. This separation reduces the attack surface and protects you from malware on your computer or phone that might otherwise alter transactions.

Ledger Live also centralizes common tasks: firmware updates, app management, portfolio tracking, staking interfaces, and links to official learning resources at Ledger Academy.

Core features at a glance

• Install and manage blockchain apps on your Ledger device via the Manager.
• Add accounts for Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and a growing list of supported chains.
• Send and receive crypto with on-device confirmation to avoid remote tampering.
• Track portfolio value, historical balance charts, and transaction history.
• Stake supported assets directly through Ledger Live partners.
• Secure firmware updates and official notifications for your device.

Download Ledger Live from the official source: Ledger.com/ledger-live.

Getting started — setup and initialization

Begin by purchasing a Ledger device from an authorized source (see Where to Buy). Unbox and verify the device packaging is intact. Power on your Ledger and follow the on-screen prompts to create a PIN and generate your 24-word recovery phrase — write it down on the supplied recovery sheet and store it offline.

Install Ledger Live from Ledger Live (Download), connect the device, and follow the app’s guide to add accounts and install the apps you need. Ledger Live’s Manager will assist with app installation and firmware updates in a safe, guided manner.

Daily workflows — send, receive, stake, and track

Receiving crypto: generate a receive address in Ledger Live and verify it on your Ledger device screen before sharing it. Sending crypto: compose a transaction in Ledger Live and confirm the amount and destination on the device. These on-device verifications ensure the address and amount have not been tampered with by malware.

Staking: Ledger Live supports staking for select networks, enabling you to earn rewards while keeping custody of your keys. Ledger Live connects to verified partners to perform staking operations while preserving on-device approvals.

Security best practices

Never reveal or type your 24-word recovery phrase into any computer, phone, or website. Ledger will never ask for your full recovery phrase. Keep multiple physical backups in secure locations if needed, and consider metal backups for durability. Always download Ledger Live and firmware updates from official Ledger pages such as Firmware and avoid third-party downloads.

For security alerts and guidance, check the official Security page and the Ledger Blog.

Integrations and advanced uses

Ledger Live integrates with a variety of decentralized applications and partners through its Discover tab and compatible third-party wallets. To interact with DeFi or NFTs, use Ledger Live or partner apps that support hardware signing and always confirm every transaction on the device screen. Power users can run multiple devices, manage many accounts, and leverage enterprise features listed on Products.

If you are managing large holdings, consider multi-signature schemes or segregating funds across multiple devices for better operational security.

Troubleshooting & support

If Ledger Live does not detect your device, ensure cables are connected, Bluetooth pairing (if applicable) is enabled, and Ledger Live is updated. Restart the app and device, and consult official troubleshooting guides at Ledger Support for step-by-step help. Avoid any support that asks for your recovery phrase.

For firmware issues, follow instructions on the official firmware page and apply updates only through Ledger Live’s Manager.

Conclusion — manage crypto with confidence

Ledger Live pairs a polished, user-friendly app with Ledger hardware wallets to give you both convenience and high-assurance security. By following official setup steps, keeping firmware and Ledger Live updated, and practicing strong recovery phrase hygiene, you can manage, stake, and track your crypto portfolio with confidence.

Start today by downloading Ledger Live from the official site and following the Ledger Start guide at Ledger Start.