Your complete guide to installing, configuring, and using Ledger Live securely.
Ledger Live is the official companion app for Ledger hardware wallets, designed to give users full control of their digital assets in a secure, modern, and intuitive environment. With support for desktop and mobile, it enables portfolio management, asset tracking, buying, selling, staking, and managing your Ledger device— all while maintaining Ledger’s industry-leading security model. Whether you're using a Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X, Ledger Live serves as your gateway to seamless crypto management.
Ledger Live is a multi-platform application built by Ledger to help users manage their cryptocurrency portfolios while interacting securely with their hardware wallet. The application acts as the bridge between your computer or mobile device and the Ledger device, allowing you to:
Ledger Live is designed to deliver convenience without compromising security. Private keys never leave your hardware wallet. Ledger Live simply provides the user interface for interacting with your accounts and signing messages.
Setting up Ledger Live takes only a few minutes but requires careful attention to security prompts and device-verification steps. Below is a complete, guided process for new users.
After downloading the correct installer, follow your system’s installation prompts. On desktop, Ledger Live may require you to grant access to USB devices. On mobile, grant Bluetooth permissions if using Ledger Nano X.
You will typically be presented with three main options:
Choose the appropriate option based on your hardware wallet status. New users must initialize and create their recovery phrase directly on the device.
Ledger Live performs a genuine check to ensure that your hardware wallet is authentic. This protects you from counterfeit devices or tampering. Follow the on-screen prompts and confirm on the device.
If creating a new wallet, your Ledger device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. Write it down on paper and store it securely. Never type it on your computer or phone. Never take a picture of it.
Each blockchain requires a specific app (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.). Ledger Live makes installing apps easy—simply open the “My Ledger” section and select the blockchain apps you need. Your Ledger device must remain connected during the installation.
Once the required blockchain apps are installed, add accounts within Ledger Live. Each account corresponds to a specific address controlled by your Ledger device. Adding accounts allows you to track balances, receive crypto, and manage your portfolio.
Ledger Live’s Dashboard gives you an overview of your total crypto holdings, asset allocation, and performance. It updates in real-time and pulls market data from trusted sources.
Ledger ensures that even if your computer is compromised, the on-device confirmation prevents unauthorized transactions.
Ledger Live supports staking for a growing list of assets including Ethereum, Polkadot, Tezos, Cosmos, Solana, and more. Staking directly through Ledger Live ensures your staking keys remain in cold storage.
The mobile app supports nearly all features of the desktop version, with added convenience for on-the-go portfolio monitoring and Bluetooth pairing with Ledger Nano X. The app includes biometric security options, including FaceID and fingerprint authentication.
Ledger Live is the secure digital control center for your Ledger hardware wallet, providing a simple yet powerful interface to manage your crypto portfolio across desktop and mobile. From installation and setup to daily management, staking, and trading, Ledger Live ensures you can control your digital assets without compromising security. With proper use and attention to best practices, it becomes one of the safest and most reliable tools for cryptocurrency management.