Introduction
What is Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is a desktop and mobile application that allows users to manage cryptocurrency assets in a single, secure interface. Designed to integrate with Ledger hardware wallets, Ledger Live gives you the freedom to check balances, send and receive crypto, manage NFTs and install apps — without exposing your private keys to the internet.
Why it matters
Ownership of private keys equals ownership of funds. Ledger Live pairs with cold-storage devices to provide a user-friendly portal while keeping private keys offline and secure.
Core Features
Account Management (h3)
- Create and restore accounts.
- Support for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and 5,000+ assets.
- Portfolio overview and transaction history.
Send & Receive
Simple, audited flow to send and receive assets. Transaction validation occurs on-device to ensure authenticity.
App Manager
Install and remove coin apps on your Ledger hardware device directly from Ledger Live.
Swap & Buy
Built-in partners allow on-ramp / off-ramp services, swaps, and staking — accessible from the same application.
Security Principles
Cold Storage + Verified Interface
Ledger Live never exposes your private keys. All sensitive confirmations happen on your Ledger device’s secure chip. Ledger Live is an interface — the hardware does the signing.
Recovery Phrase
Your 24-word recovery phrase is the ultimate backup. Ledger Live will never ask you to enter it; restore operations must be performed on a Ledger device or through Ledger’s secure flows.
Best Practices (h5)
- Never share your recovery phrase or PIN.
- Keep firmware and app software up to date.
- Only download Ledger Live from official channels.
How to Download & Install
Step-by-step (h3)
- Visit the official Ledger website or app stores.
- Choose Desktop (Windows/macOS/Linux) or Mobile (iOS/Android).
- Install Ledger Live and follow the onboarding guide.
Tip: Verify the download signature or checksum when available to confirm file integrity.
Download Ledger Live
Onboarding Checklist
Before You Start
- Have your Ledger hardware device and USB cable ready.
- Find a secure, private location to write down your recovery phrase.
- Use the latest OS updates and a secure network.
Quick Setup Flow
Pair the device, create a PIN, write down the recovery phrase, then add accounts in Ledger Live. Validate every transaction on the device display.
Advanced Use
Staking, NFTs & Integrations
Ledger Live supports staking certain assets directly in the app and displays NFT collections with metadata. For advanced dApp interactions, use Ledger Live with a web3 provider (e.g., WalletConnect) while keeping the device for signature confirmations.
Developer & Power User Tips
Use the Manager to install specific coin apps, enable developer options if needed, and review transaction data on-device before signing.
FAQs
Is Ledger Live free?
Yes. The Ledger Live application is free to download and use; you only pay network fees for transactions and optional partner fees for swaps/buys.
What if I lose my device?
Use your recovery phrase to restore your accounts onto a new Ledger device or compatible wallet. Treat the recovery phrase as the single point of recovery — protect it accordingly.
Resources (10 Official Links)
Replace the placeholders with official URLs when finalizing the presentation. These 10 items provide direct access points for downloads, support, and security guidance.