As the cryptocurrency space grows, so does the need for secure, reliable tools that help users manage their digital assets without risk. Enter Ledger Live, the official app for Ledger hardware wallets—designed to simplify crypto management while maintaining top-level security.
If you’ve just purchased a Ledger device or are planning to, understanding how to start with Ledger Live is key to unlocking its full potential. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to set up, navigate, and confidently use Ledger Live from day one.
Ledger Live is a desktop and mobile application developed by Ledger, designed to interface directly with Ledger’s hardware wallets like the Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, and Ledger Stax. It serves as a secure dashboard for managing crypto assets, NFTs, DeFi apps, and staking—without ever exposing your private keys online.
Ledger Live allows you to:
And the best part? All of this happens while keeping your private keys offline and protected inside your Ledger device.
Before using Ledger Live, you’ll need a Ledger device. Choose from:
Important: Always buy your Ledger wallet directly from Ledger.com or an authorized reseller to avoid tampered devices.
Go to the official Ledger Live download page at ledger.com/ledger-live. Choose your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux) or mobile platform (iOS or Android) and install the app.
Security Tip: Avoid downloading Ledger Live from third-party sites. Phishing apps can compromise your funds.
Open Ledger Live and select “Get Started”. Follow the prompts to choose your device model and select one of the following:
You’ll be guided through setting a PIN code and writing down your 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is the only way to recover your wallet if your device is lost or damaged.
🛡️ Never share your recovery phrase with anyone. Ledger will never ask for it. Store it securely offline.
Once your hardware wallet is initialized, Ledger Live will detect it via USB (or Bluetooth if using Nano X on mobile). Confirm the pairing on your device, and you’re ready to proceed.
In Ledger Live:
This enables Ledger Live to communicate with specific blockchain networks and display your balances.
You can now send and receive crypto. To receive:
To send:
Every transaction must be verified physically on your Ledger hardware—ensuring maximum protection against hackers and malware.
Track the total value of your holdings in real time, view price movements, and monitor asset distribution.
Buy crypto with a card or bank transfer, or swap between cryptocurrencies using integrated partners like MoonPay and Changelly—all within the app.
Stake assets like ETH, DOT, ATOM, and more to earn passive rewards while maintaining full control over your tokens.
Manage Ethereum and Polygon-based NFTs directly from Ledger Live, with full security.
Connect your Ledger wallet to dApps via WalletConnect, enabling you to lend, borrow, and trade securely on platforms like Uniswap, Aave, and Compound.
Starting with Ledger Live is your gateway to secure and seamless crypto management. With a straightforward setup process, powerful features, and ironclad security, Ledger Live lets you take full control of your digital assets without relying on third-party exchanges or wallets.
From your first transaction to managing a complex portfolio or staking tokens for yield, Ledger Live provides a trusted foundation. If you're serious about crypto security and ownership, Ledger Live is not just a tool—it’s a necessity.