What is Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile application from Ledger that acts as the user-friendly interface to Ledger® hardware wallets (for example, Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus, Nano X). It lets you add accounts, view balances, prepare and broadcast transactions, install device apps and perform firmware updates — while ensuring that private keys never leave the secure hardware device. Ledger Live is designed for both everyday users and more advanced owners who need reliable portfolio management combined with hardware-backed security.
Core features at a glance
- Portfolio dashboard: consolidated balance and asset allocation in your chosen fiat currency.
- Multi-coin support: manage dozens of blockchains and hundreds of tokens from one interface.
- Send & receive: prepare transactions in-app and confirm them on-device for strong protection.
- App & firmware management: install official coin apps and apply signed firmware updates directly through Ledger Live.
- Staking & integrated services: stake supported assets and use trusted partners for swaps or purchases, while signing remains on-device.
How security is enforced
Ledger Live itself never holds or transmits private keys. All signing operations occur within the secure element of your Ledger device. When you create a transaction in Ledger Live, unsigned transaction data is sent to the device; the device displays details (recipient, amount, fees) and requires you to physically confirm the action before signing. This physical confirmation is a core security guarantee: even if your computer is compromised, it cannot sign transactions without the device’s approval.
Important: Your 24-word recovery phrase is the ultimate backup—never enter it into Ledger Live, a website, or any digital form. Record it offline and store it securely.
Getting started — installation & initial setup
- Download Ledger Live from the official Ledger site: ledger.com/ledger-live.
- Install the desktop app or mobile app (iOS/Android). On first run, follow the onboard flow to configure Ledger Live.
- Connect your Ledger device with USB (or Bluetooth for Nano X) and follow device prompts to initialize (create PIN and write down recovery phrase) or restore an existing seed directly on-device.
- Add accounts for the assets you hold and verify receiving addresses on your Ledger device before accepting funds.
Using Ledger Live daily
Once set up, Ledger Live is your dashboard for daily crypto activities. Use it to:
- Check balances and recent transactions across accounts.
- Prepare and send transactions—always validate the recipient address and amount on your Ledger device screen before approving.
- Install or remove coin apps on your device to support additional assets.
- Monitor staking rewards and interact with integrated services where supported.
Privacy & telemetry
Ledger Live collects limited, optional telemetry to improve the product. It does not receive your private keys or recovery phrase. If you prioritize maximum privacy, review the app’s settings and disable telemetry. Remember that blockchain activity itself is public; use address hygiene (avoid reuse) and privacy-focused practices to reduce linkability.
Troubleshooting common issues
Device not detected
- Try another USB port or cable (prefer the official cable).
- Unlock the device (enter PIN) before opening Ledger Live.
- Restart Ledger Live and your computer; reinstall if necessary.
Bluetooth pairing problems (Nano X)
- Turn Bluetooth off/on, remove old pairings, and retry the pairing flow.
- Ensure firmware is up to date and follow pairing prompts carefully.
Advanced protections and options
Ledger Live supports advanced features such as an optional passphrase (which creates hidden wallets) and multiple accounts per currency for better compartmentalization. A passphrase adds a strong privacy and security layer but is an advanced tool—if forgotten, funds in that hidden wallet are unrecoverable. For long-term, high-value custody consider metal seed backups and storing copies of your recovery phrase in separate secure locations.
When something goes wrong — recovery steps
If your hardware is lost or damaged, you can restore your accounts on a new Ledger (or compatible wallet) using your recovery phrase. If you believe your recovery phrase has been exposed, immediately create a new wallet with a fresh seed and move funds to it. For persistent or unusual issues, consult Ledger’s official support resources at support.ledger.com.
Who should use Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is ideal for anyone who wants a secure, polished interface to manage crypto while keeping keys offline. It suits beginners because of guided onboarding, and also power users who need multi-account management, staking, or integrations. If you regularly interact with dApps or advanced custody workflows, Ledger Live can be combined with other specialized tools while remaining the trusted signing authority via your Ledger device.