Overview
Ledger Live is a user-focused application designed to let you control crypto assets securely using Ledger hardware wallets (Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus, Nano X and other supported devices). It provides a single interface to view balances, send and receive tokens, install and manage apps on your device, and access advanced features such as staking, swap services, and portfolio analytics — all while keeping your private keys securely isolated on your Ledger device.
Note: Ledger Live pairs with a Ledger hardware wallet for the highest level of private key protection. The app is available for desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux) and mobile (iOS, Android).
Core Security Principles
Security is the foundation of Ledger Live. The app is built around three simple principles:
- Private keys never leave your device. All signing operations happen on the Ledger hardware wallet itself, preventing malware or compromised computers from capturing your keys.
- Verified firmware and apps. Ledger Live helps you update and verify official firmware and apps for your device to ensure authenticity and integrity.
- Transparent user consent. Every transaction requires explicit approval on the physical device — you always confirm the recipient, amount and fees on the screen of your Ledger device.
These safeguards keep your crypto in your control while giving you a modern, pleasant user experience in the Ledger Live app.
Key Features
Portfolio Dashboard
Get a clear, real-time snapshot of your holdings across multiple accounts and blockchains. Filter by asset, date range, or account — Ledger Live consolidates your balances into an intuitive dashboard.
Receive & Send
Create receive addresses, verify them on your Ledger device, and send transactions with device-confirmed signing. The app supports address verification and QR codes for mobile convenience.
Swap & Exchange Options
Access built-in swap and exchange partners directly from Ledger Live to trade tokens without exposing your private keys. Compare rates and choose the best provider for each trade.
Staking & Earning
Earn rewards by staking supported assets directly through Ledger Live. Delegation and staking flows are simplified while keeping final approval on your hardware device.
App Management
Install, update, or remove blockchain apps on your Ledger device from Ledger Live. Keep only the apps you need to optimize available device storage and security.
Account & Transaction History
Review full account histories, transaction details, and export CSVs for accounting or tax reporting. Clear timestamps and confirmations help you reconcile activity.
How Ledger Live Keeps Your Keys Safe
Ledger Live acts as the management interface but never becomes the custodian of your keys. Here’s the typical flow that keeps your assets secure:
- Set up your Ledger hardware wallet and note your recovery phrase in a safe, offline place.
- Connect your device to Ledger Live (USB or Bluetooth for supported devices) and add accounts for the blockchains you want to use.
- When you initiate a transaction in Ledger Live, the unsigned transaction is sent to the Ledger device.
- The device displays transaction details; you verify and approve using the physical buttons or device touchscreen.
- The device signs the transaction internally and returns the signed transaction to Ledger Live to broadcast to the network.
This model ensures your private keys never leave the secure element inside the Ledger device.
Supported Assets & Ecosystem
Ledger Live supports hundreds of cryptocurrencies — from major coins like Bitcoin and Ethereum to many ERC-20 tokens and native tokens across other blockchains. Ledger also integrates with a broad ecosystem of third-party dApps and services, allowing you to access DeFi, NFTs, and additional tools while keeping keys on-device.
If you need a specific token or integration, check Ledger’s official compatibility list in the app or on the Ledger website to confirm support and best practices.
Getting Started — Quick Setup
Getting started with Ledger Live is straightforward:
- Download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website and install it on your desktop or mobile device.
- Follow the step-by-step onboarding to create a new Ledger device or restore an existing wallet using your recovery phrase.
- Add accounts for the cryptocurrencies you hold and synchronize balances.
- Install the necessary blockchain apps on your Ledger device via Ledger Live.
Ledger Live includes helpful walkthroughs for first-time users and safety reminders about keeping recovery phrases offline and private.
Troubleshooting & Best Practices
Common issues can usually be resolved with a few simple checks:
- Ensure your Ledger device firmware and Ledger Live are up to date.
- Use official Ledger downloads only; avoid third-party installers and links sent via email or social media.
- When connecting over USB, use a known-good cable and port; on mobile, ensure Bluetooth permissions are granted for supported devices.
- Never share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone or enter it into software — it is the single key to your assets.
If you encounter complex issues, Ledger’s support documentation and community resources provide step-by-step guides and troubleshooting flows.
Privacy & Data Handling
Ledger Live respects user privacy. The app needs minimal data to provide portfolio features and network queries, and the private keys remain on your device. Certain optional features — like balance aggregation or analytics — may query third-party APIs to fetch market data or blockchain history; you can control or disable some of these features within the app settings.
Ledger publishes privacy and data handling practices; review those policies if you require enterprise or high-privacy configurations.
Who Should Use Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is ideal for:
- Individuals who want a secure, hardware-backed way to manage multiple cryptocurrencies.
- Investors who need portfolio tracking and exportable transaction histories.
- Users exploring staking, swaps, or DeFi integrations while keeping keys secured on-device.
Whether you are new to crypto or an experienced user, Ledger Live helps centralize everyday crypto management without compromising on security.
Conclusion
Ledger Live bridges the gap between strong hardware security and modern usability. It provides a polished interface for managing assets, performing transactions, and accessing emerging crypto services — all while ensuring your private keys never leave your Ledger device. By combining an easy-to-use app with hardware-backed protection, Ledger Live empowers users to take control of their crypto safely and confidently.