Ledger® Live: | Getting Started™ with Ledger®
Ledger® Live is the official application designed to work seamlessly with Ledger® hardware wallets, allowing users to securely manage, buy, sell, send, receive, and stake cryptocurrencies from one trusted interface. Whether you are new to crypto or an experienced holder, Ledger® Live provides a user-friendly yet highly secure environment to take full control of your digital assets. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to get started with Ledger® Live.
What Is Ledger® Live?
Ledger® Live is a desktop and mobile application developed by Ledger® to help users manage their crypto assets while keeping private keys offline on a Ledger® hardware wallet. Unlike online wallets or exchanges, Ledger® Live never stores your private keys on the internet. All sensitive operations, such as transaction approvals, are securely validated on the physical Ledger® device itself.
The app supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and thousands of altcoins and tokens. It also integrates portfolio tracking, staking features, and access to third-party services, making it a comprehensive crypto management platform.
System Requirements
Before installing Ledger® Live, make sure your system meets the minimum requirements:
Desktop: Windows, macOS, or Linux
Mobile: iOS or Android
Hardware Wallet: Ledger Nano S Plus™, Ledger Nano X™, or other compatible Ledger® devices
Internet Connection: Required for installation, updates, and syncing accounts
Always download Ledger® Live from the official Ledger® website to avoid phishing or malicious software.
Downloading and Installing Ledger® Live
To begin, visit the official Ledger® website and download the Ledger® Live application for your operating system. Once downloaded, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
After launching the app for the first time, you will be prompted to choose whether you are setting up a new Ledger® device or connecting an existing one. Select the option that matches your situation and continue.
Setting Up Your Ledger® Device
If you are new to Ledger®, Ledger® Live will guide you through the device setup process. This includes:
Initializing the device – Choose a PIN code directly on your Ledger® hardware wallet.
Generating a recovery phrase – You will receive a 24-word recovery phrase that must be written down and stored securely offline.
Confirming the recovery phrase – This step ensures you have accurately recorded your backup.
Your recovery phrase is the only way to restore access to your funds if your device is lost or damaged. Never share it with anyone and never store it digitally.
Connecting Ledger® Live to Your Wallet
Once your device is set up, connect it to Ledger® Live using a USB cable or Bluetooth (for supported devices). The app will verify the authenticity of your Ledger® hardware wallet and may prompt you to install the latest firmware if needed.
Ledger® Live includes a Manager section where you can install cryptocurrency apps directly onto your device. These apps enable support for different blockchains and assets.
Adding Accounts in Ledger® Live
To manage cryptocurrencies, you must add accounts in Ledger® Live:
Open Ledger® Live and navigate to Accounts.
Click Add account.
Select the cryptocurrency you want to manage.
Open the corresponding app on your Ledger® device.
Ledger® Live will synchronize with the blockchain and create an account linked to your hardware wallet. You can repeat this process for multiple assets.
Sending and Receiving Crypto
Ledger® Live makes sending and receiving crypto straightforward while maintaining maximum security.
Receiving Crypto
Choose the account you want to receive funds into.
Click Receive and verify the address on both Ledger® Live and your hardware device.
Share the verified address with the sender.
Sending Crypto
Select the account and click Send.
Enter the recipient’s address and amount.
Review the transaction details on your Ledger® device and approve it physically.
All outgoing transactions require manual confirmation on the device, protecting you from unauthorized transfers.
Portfolio Tracking and Insights
Ledger® Live includes a built-in portfolio dashboard that displays the value of your assets in real time. You can view individual asset performance, total balance history, and market trends. This feature helps users monitor their investments without exposing private keys to third parties.
Staking and Earning Rewards
Ledger® Live supports staking for select cryptocurrencies, allowing users to earn rewards while retaining full control of their assets. Supported assets may include Ethereum, Solana, Tezos, and others.
Staking through Ledger® Live is non-custodial, meaning your funds never leave your wallet. Rewards are distributed according to the rules of the specific blockchain.
Security Best Practices
To get the most out of Ledger® Live securely, follow these essential tips:
Always verify transaction details on your Ledger® device screen.
Keep your recovery phrase offline and stored in a secure location.
Enable a strong PIN code on your hardware wallet.
Only download Ledger® Live updates from official sources.
Beware of phishing emails or fake support messages.
Ledger® will never ask for your recovery phrase under any circumstances.
Keeping Ledger® Live Updated
Regular updates ensure compatibility with new assets, security improvements, and performance enhancements. Ledger® Live will notify you when updates are available. Installing updates promptly helps maintain the highest level of protection for your crypto assets.
Conclusion
Ledger® Live is a powerful and secure companion app for managing cryptocurrencies with a Ledger® hardware wallet. From initial setup and account management to secure transactions and staking, Ledger® Live provides everything you need to manage digital assets safely and efficiently. By following proper security practices and understanding how the app works, users can confidently take full control of their crypto journey.Sign up for a demo
Submit the form below. Once submitted, you'll receive a calendar invite for a 30-minute demonstration.