1. Introduction & value proposition
Ledger Live Wallet is the official companion app for Ledger hardware wallets, offering a secure and user-friendly way to manage multiple cryptocurrencies while ensuring private keys never leave your device. Combining hardware-backed key storage with an intuitive desktop and mobile experience, Ledger Live lets you monitor your portfolio, send and receive assets, install blockchain apps on-device, swap tokens, stake assets, and safely connect to decentralized applications.
2. Supported devices & platforms
Ledger Live works with Ledger hardware wallets such as the Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X. The app supports major desktop platforms (Windows 10/11, macOS Intel & Apple Silicon, and most mainstream Linux distributions) as well as iOS and Android mobile apps. Some features like Bluetooth pairing are specific to Ledger Nano X.
3. Download and verify Ledger Live
Download safely: Always download Ledger Live directly from the official Ledger website (ledger.com/ledger-live) or from verified app stores. Avoid links in unsolicited messages or social media. Phishing sites often mimic official pages — verify the domain and SSL when downloading.
Optional: Verify file integrity
Advanced users can verify checksums (SHA256) provided by Ledger to ensure the installer hasn’t been tampered with. Use an offline, trusted machine when performing checksum verification.
4. Initial device setup — step by step
Follow this secure flow when setting up a new Ledger device:
- Unbox and inspect the device. If packaging appears tampered with, return it.
- Connect the device to your computer or phone and power it on.
- Choose Set up as new device on the device screen.
- Create a PIN code on the device — choose something not easily guessable.
- Write down the 24-word recovery phrase on the supplied recovery sheet — do not photograph or store digitally.
- Confirm the recovery phrase when prompted by the device.
- Install Ledger Live, open it, and choose the option to set up a new device in the app. Use the Manager to install blockchain apps you need (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
Important: Only enter recovery phrases on the Ledger device. Never type these words into Ledger Live, a website, or a phone app.
5. Adding accounts and managing your portfolio
Once the device is set up and the correct apps installed, add accounts in Ledger Live via Accounts → Add account. Ledger Live will sync balances and transaction history for each account. The Portfolio tab provides an aggregated view of holdings and performance charts over time. Use export options for tax reporting or record‑keeping.
6. Send, receive, swap, and stake
Receive
To receive assets, select an account and click Receive. Confirm that the address shown in Ledger Live exactly matches the address displayed on your Ledger device before sharing.
Send
To send funds, create a transaction in Ledger Live and confirm the transaction details on your device. The device displays the destination address and amount for manual verification — this is critical to prevent malware from altering transaction data.
Swap & Buy
Ledger Live integrates third-party swap and on-ramp providers. When swapping or buying, compare rates and review KYC requirements for fiat on/off ramps. Signing still occurs on-device.
Staking
Stake supported assets directly through Ledger Live with trusted providers. Understand lock-up periods, unstaking times, and reward mechanics before committing large amounts.
7. dApp integrations and MetaMask
Ledger devices can act as the signing backend for interfaces like MetaMask. Connect Ledger to MetaMask via the "Connect Hardware Wallet" option to use MetaMask’s dApp integration while keeping signing operations on the Ledger device. WalletConnect is another secure connector for mobile dApp interactions.
8. Security best practices
- Never share your recovery phrase: Ledger or legitimate support will never ask for it.
- Use physical backups: Record recovery words on the supplied sheet or use metal backups to resist fire/water damage.
- Buy from authorized sellers: Avoid second-hand devices and unauthorized retailers.
- Verify firmware updates: Only apply firmware updates through Ledger Live and confirm prompts on the device.
- Be phishing-aware: Type ledger.com manually; don’t click unsolicited links. Use bookmarks for important pages.
- Minimize approvals: Review and revoke unnecessary token approvals for dApps to reduce smart-contract risk.
9. Advanced features: passphrase, multisig, enterprise
Passphrase-protected wallets
An optional passphrase appended to the recovery seed creates hidden wallets. This increases security and plausible deniability but also increases the risk of permanent loss if forgotten. Treat passphrases like high-security passwords.
Multisig setups
Combine multiple Ledger devices with multisig smart contracts (e.g., Gnosis Safe) for organizational custody. Multisig reduces single-point-of-failure risk and is recommended for treasuries or high-value holdings.
Enterprise provisioning
Ledger offers enterprise solutions for device provisioning and management. Organizations should adopt strict procurement, storage, and rotation policies for hardware wallets.
10. Troubleshooting & recovery
Device not detected
- Try a data-capable USB cable and different USB port.
- Ensure the device is unlocked and on the home screen before connecting.
- On macOS and Linux, verify USB permissions; on Windows install drivers if required.
Forgotten PIN
Too many incorrect PIN attempts will reset the device. Restore using your recovery phrase on the same or a new Ledger device.
Compromised recovery phrase
If you suspect the recovery phrase is exposed, move funds immediately to a new wallet generated from a newly created recovery phrase. Treat compromised seeds as fully compromised.
11. FAQ and next steps
Is Ledger Live free?
Yes — Ledger Live is free to download and use. Third-party services integrated into Ledger Live (swaps, on-ramps) may charge fees.
Can I use Ledger Live on multiple devices?
Yes. Ledger Live can be installed across computers and phones. The Ledger hardware device must be connected to sign transactions on each device.
Where can I get help?
For official support, firmware alerts, and downloads, always use ledger.com/support and Ledger’s verified channels. Beware of impersonators offering support via unsolicited messages.
Conclusion
Ledger Live Wallet, paired with a Ledger hardware device, provides a powerful balance of security and usability for managing crypto assets. By following secure download practices, safeguarding your recovery phrase, confirming transactions on-device, and using advanced options like passphrases and multisig thoughtfully, you can significantly reduce risk and confidently use crypto for everyday or enterprise needs.