What is Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is the official companion application for Ledger hardware wallets, providing a secure interface to manage your cryptocurrency portfolio. It connects directly to your Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Nano X device, allowing you to send, receive, and manage your crypto assets while keeping your private keys protected within the hardware wallet.
Unlike software wallets or exchange accounts, Ledger Live combines user-friendly functionality with the highest security standards. Your private keys never leave your Ledger device, ensuring that your assets remain safe even if your computer or smartphone is compromised.
Key Features & Benefits
Portfolio Dashboard
Get a comprehensive overview of your cryptocurrency holdings with real-time balance tracking, portfolio distribution, and performance metrics across all your accounts.
Secure Transactions
Send and receive hundreds of cryptocurrencies with the assurance that each transaction is verified and signed securely on your hardware device before broadcast.
Built-in Exchange
Swap between different cryptocurrencies directly within the app using Ledger's partner exchange services, without ever exposing your private keys to third parties.
Staking & Earning
Earn rewards by staking supported cryptocurrencies directly through Ledger Live, with your assets remaining securely in your custody at all times.
NFT Management
View and manage your NFT collections directly within Ledger Live, with support for Ethereum-based NFTs and compatibility with major marketplaces.
Multi-Account Support
Create multiple accounts for each cryptocurrency to organize your holdings for different purposes such as savings, trading, or DeFi activities.
Security Advantages
Ledger Live's primary security advantage comes from its integration with Ledger hardware wallets, which utilize secure element chips to protect your private keys. This architecture provides:
- Isolated Key Storage: Private keys are generated and stored securely on the device, completely isolated from internet-connected devices.
- Transaction Verification: All transactions require physical confirmation on the device, preventing unauthorized transfers.
- Malware Protection: Even if your computer is infected with malware, your private keys remain protected within the hardware wallet.
- Secure Recovery: Your 24-word recovery phrase allows you to restore your wallet on any Ledger device while maintaining security.
- Regular Updates: Frequent security updates and new cryptocurrency support through firmware and software updates.
Getting Started Guide
Purchase Authentic Hardware
Buy a Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Nano X) only from the official Ledger website or authorized resellers to avoid counterfeit devices.
Download Ledger Live
Download the Ledger Live application from the official Ledger website for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
Initialize Your Device
Set up your Ledger device by following the on-screen instructions. Write down your 24-word recovery phrase and store it securely offline.
Install the App
Install Ledger Live on your computer or mobile device and connect your Ledger hardware wallet.
Install Crypto Apps
Use the Manager in Ledger Live to install applications for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage on your Ledger device.
Create Accounts
Add accounts for your different cryptocurrencies in Ledger Live and start managing your portfolio securely.
Supported Cryptocurrencies
Ledger Live supports over 1,800 cryptocurrencies and tokens, with regular additions through updates. Major supported assets include:
- Bitcoin (BTC) and Bitcoin-based assets
- Ethereum (ETH) and all ERC-20 tokens
- Ripple (XRP), Litecoin (LTC), Bitcoin Cash (BCH)
- Cardano (ADA), Polkadot (DOT), Solana (SOL)
- Stellar (XLM), Monero (XMR), Tezos (XTZ)
- And many more through regular firmware updates
Important Security Notes
- Always verify you're downloading Ledger Live from official sources
- Never share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone
- Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase
- Keep your device firmware updated for the latest security features
- Use the in-app manager to install cryptocurrency applications