Ledger® Live — Getting Started | Official Ledger Wallet App
Welcome to Ledger® Live, the official wallet application designed to work securely with Ledger hardware wallets. If you’re reading this, you’re taking an important step toward true crypto self-custody—where you control your private keys, your assets, and your financial future.
Ledger Live is more than just an app. It is the central hub that allows you to safely manage cryptocurrencies while keeping your most sensitive information protected inside your Ledger hardware device. This guide will walk you through what Ledger Live is, why it matters, and how to get started the right way.
What Is Ledger® Live?
Ledger® Live is the official desktop and mobile application developed by Ledger to manage cryptocurrencies through Ledger hardware wallets such as Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, and other supported devices.
Ledger Live allows you to:
- Set up and initialize your Ledger device
- Send and receive cryptocurrencies securely
- Install and manage crypto apps on your hardware wallet
- Track your portfolio in real time
- Stake supported assets
- Update firmware and applications safely
Most importantly, Ledger Live ensures that your private keys never leave your hardware wallet, even when interacting with blockchains and decentralized services.
Why Ledger Live Is Essential
In cryptocurrency, security depends on two things: how your private keys are stored and how you interact with them. Ledger Live is designed to work hand-in-hand with Ledger hardware wallets to provide both security and usability.
Key reasons Ledger Live matters:
- Official and Trusted – Developed and maintained by Ledger
- Hardware-Level Security – Uses Ledger’s Secure Element technology
- On-Device Verification – All transactions must be confirmed physically
- Encrypted Communication – Data exchanged between app and device is protected
- No Custody of Funds – Ledger never controls or accesses your assets
Using unofficial apps or third-party software increases risk. Ledger Live ensures you are using authentic tools from the source.
Supported Platforms
Ledger Live is available across major platforms to fit different user needs.
Supported platforms include:
- Desktop: Windows, macOS, Linux
- Mobile: iOS and Android
For first-time setup and firmware updates, the desktop version is generally recommended. Mobile versions are ideal for monitoring portfolios and making transactions on the go.
Getting Started: What You’ll Need
Before starting, make sure you have:
- A Ledger hardware wallet
- A USB cable (or Bluetooth for supported devices)
- A trusted computer or smartphone
- A stable internet connection
Always ensure you download Ledger Live only from official Ledger sources or verified app stores.
Step 1: Download and Install Ledger Live
To begin, download the Ledger Live app for your operating system.
Important safety note:
Never download Ledger Live from email links, ads, or unofficial websites. Fake apps are a common attack method used to steal funds.
After downloading:
- Install the app following on-screen instructions
- Launch Ledger Live
- Allow necessary permissions for proper functionality
Ledger Live may check for updates to ensure you’re running the latest secure version.
Step 2: Set Up or Restore Your Ledger Device
When you open Ledger Live for the first time, you’ll be asked to choose between:
Set Up a New Device
This option is for brand-new Ledger hardware wallets.
You will:
- Initialize your device
- Create a PIN code
- Generate a 24-word recovery phrase
Your recovery phrase is the only backup of your wallet. Write it down on paper and store it securely offline. Never take photos or store it digitally.
Restore an Existing Wallet
If you already have a Ledger wallet or recovery phrase, you can restore access by entering your recovery phrase directly on the device.
Your recovery phrase never touches the internet or Ledger Live itself.
Step 3: Verify Device Authenticity
Ledger Live performs a genuine check to verify that your device is authentic and running official firmware.
This process:
- Confirms the Secure Element chip
- Ensures firmware integrity
- Protects against tampered or fake devices
This verification is automatic and helps maintain trust in your setup.
Step 4: Install Crypto Apps on Your Ledger
Ledger devices use individual blockchain apps to interact with different cryptocurrencies.
Using Ledger Live, you can:
- Browse supported crypto apps
- Install or uninstall apps as needed
- Manage device storage efficiently
Installing or removing apps does not affect your funds, as assets are tied to your recovery phrase—not the apps themselves.
Managing Crypto with Ledger Live
Once set up, Ledger Live becomes your main dashboard for crypto management.
From within the app, you can:
- Send and receive cryptocurrencies
- View balances and transaction history
- Manage multiple accounts
- Track portfolio performance
- Customize transaction fees
- Stake supported assets
Every outgoing transaction must be physically confirmed on your Ledger device, adding a crucial layer of protection.
Supported Cryptocurrencies
Ledger Live supports thousands of cryptocurrencies and tokens, including:
- Bitcoin (BTC)
- Ethereum (ETH)
- Litecoin (LTC)
- XRP
- Cardano (ADA)
- Polkadot (DOT)
- ERC-20 tokens and more
Support continues to expand through updates and new app releases.
Privacy and Security by Design
Ledger Live is designed to respect user privacy and minimize data exposure.
Key privacy features include:
- No custody of funds
- No access to private keys
- Optional analytics settings
- Secure communication protocols
Ledger Live does not store recovery phrases or private keys, and Ledger cannot access your wallet.
Keeping Ledger Live Updated
Regular updates are essential to stay secure.
Ledger Live notifies users about:
- App updates
- Firmware updates
- Crypto app updates
Updates often include security improvements, new features, and expanded asset support. Installing updates promptly is strongly recommended.
Common Safety Tips for New Users
To protect your assets:
- Never share your 24-word recovery phrase
- Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase
- Beware of phishing emails and fake support messages
- Always verify addresses and amounts on your device screen
- Only use official Ledger Live downloads
If someone has your recovery phrase, they control your funds.
Long-Term Confidence with Ledger Live
Ledger Live is continuously improved to adapt to the evolving crypto ecosystem. Backed by Ledger’s security research and global user base, it provides a reliable foundation for long-term digital asset management.
Whether you’re holding crypto for years, actively transacting, or exploring staking and new networks, Ledger Live offers the tools you need—without compromising control or security.
Final Thoughts
Ledger® Live — Getting Started | Official Ledger Wallet App marks the beginning of true self-custody. By combining Ledger hardware security with an intuitive and powerful app, Ledger Live gives you full ownership of your digital assets—securely and transparently.