Welcome to Ledger® Live
Ledger® Live is the official desktop application for managing your Ledger® hardware wallet. It enables users to install crypto apps, manage multiple accounts, send and receive crypto, check balances, and grow portfolios securely — all while keeping private keys offline on your Ledger® device.
This page is a long-form educational template explaining how to begin using Ledger® Live safely. It does not collect sensitive information, passwords, or recovery phrases.
Download Ledger® Live (Desktop)Getting Started with Ledger® Live (Desktop Guide)
Whether you're setting up your Ledger Nano X, Nano S Plus, or Nano S, the Ledger® Live desktop app is essential for proper device initialization and ongoing crypto management.
- 1. Install Ledger® Live — Use only official sources for your safety.
- 2. Open the app and select “Initialize as new device” if your Ledger is brand new.
- 3. Create a PIN on your hardware wallet (never in software).
- 4. Write down your recovery phrase offline using the official recovery cards.
- 5. Never take photos or store the recovery phrase digitally.
- 6. Add crypto accounts such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, or others.
- 7. Install apps on the device to support each cryptocurrency you intend to use.
- 8. Send & receive crypto securely — always double-check addresses on your device screen.
What You Can Do with Ledger® Live
✔ Manage 5,500+ assets across multiple blockchains
✔ Track your entire crypto portfolio with charts and analysis
✔ Stake supported assets like ETH, ATOM, SOL (where available)
✔ Connect DeFi and Web3 apps through Ledger’s secure ecosystem
✔ Use integrated partners for buying, swapping, and selling crypto
✔ Update your Ledger® firmware securely through Ledger® Live
Ledger® Live Security Model
Ledger® Live uses a secure communication channel to interact with your Ledger device. However, all private keys and signing actions remain inside the hardware wallet. This design ensures that even if your computer is compromised, your private keys are not exposed.
Always verify every transaction detail using the Ledger® device screen before approving it. The device is your final line of defense against phishing or tampering attempts.
Best Practices for Using Ledger® Live
Using Ledger® Live correctly is essential for maintaining your crypto security. The following best practices apply to all users:
- • Keep Ledger® Live updated to the latest version.
- • Never store your recovery phrase digitally.
- • Do not share your recovery phrase with anyone — ever.
- • Verify the authenticity of download links.
- • Always check recipient addresses on your device.
- • Disconnect your Ledger® device when not in use.
- • Avoid browser extensions claiming to be Ledger® services.
Advanced Features of Ledger® Live
Ledger® Live goes beyond basic crypto storage. It supports advanced crypto features that enhance the user experience without compromising security.
• Staking: Earn rewards on supported tokens directly through Ledger® Live.
• DeFi Access: Connect safely to decentralized applications (DApps) using Ledger Connect.
• Ledger® Recover (optional): A paid identity-based recovery service for added safety.
• Multiple Accounts: Add separate accounts for BTC, ETH, XRP, ADA, and more.
• App Store: Install or remove crypto apps to manage storage efficiently.
Understanding Your Ledger® Device
Ledger® hardware wallets are secure elements designed to protect your private keys with military-grade security. They isolate key operations from your computer or smartphone environment, offering unmatched protection in the digital asset space.
Combined with the Ledger® Live desktop app, users can perform all operations—sending, receiving, staking, updating—while maintaining full cryptographic isolation.