In the evolving world of digital finance, taking control of your cryptocurrency through self-custody is one of the smartest steps you can take. While exchanges offer accessibility, they often lack the level of security and ownership that experienced crypto users demand. That’s where Ledger® Live, the official companion app to the Ledger® hardware wallets, comes into play. Whether you're new to crypto or transitioning from a custodial service, this guide will help you get started confidently and securely.
Ledger Live is an all-in-one application designed to manage your digital assets while connected to a Ledger hardware wallet such as the Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X. It combines convenience with robust security by allowing you to manage thousands of cryptocurrencies from a single interface—without ever exposing your private keys online.
Ledger Live serves as a bridge between the secure offline storage provided by Ledger devices and the online capabilities of the crypto ecosystem. It enables everything from portfolio tracking to staking, all while maintaining your complete control over your funds.
There are many reasons why Ledger Live has become a go-to platform for crypto asset management:
Offline security: Private keys are stored in your hardware wallet and never leave the device, protecting you from phishing, malware, and online threats.
Full control: Unlike centralized exchanges, you have complete ownership of your assets with no third-party intermediaries.
Ease of use: The interface is designed for all levels of users, with clear instructions and intuitive navigation.
Asset diversity: Manage a wide range of coins and tokens, from Bitcoin and Ethereum to Solana, Polkadot, and thousands of others.
Access to DeFi and NFTs: Connect to decentralized finance platforms and manage NFTs securely through integrations.
To use Ledger Live, you’ll first need a Ledger hardware wallet—either the Ledger Nano S Plus or the Ledger Nano X. Make sure to purchase your device from a trusted and official source to ensure it hasn’t been tampered with.
Install the Ledger Live application on your computer or mobile device. It is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Always ensure you download the app from official sources to avoid phishing attempts.
Once you unbox your Ledger device:
Connect it to your computer or smartphone.
Choose a secure PIN code.
Write down the 24-word recovery phrase shown on the device screen. This phrase is your only backup—keep it offline and safe.
Confirm the recovery phrase by verifying a few words directly on the device.
Important: Never store your recovery phrase digitally. Do not take pictures or share it with anyone.
Open the Ledger Live app and follow the guided setup:
Choose to configure a new device or restore an existing one.
Verify the authenticity of your hardware device using Ledger Live’s built-in security check.
Add crypto accounts for the coins you want to manage (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
Once connected, Ledger Live will display your portfolio dashboard.
View real-time insights into your crypto portfolio, including individual asset values, historical performance, and portfolio breakdown. It’s a clean and organized way to monitor your investments.
Need to make a transaction? Ledger Live makes it easy:
To receive crypto, generate a new wallet address and confirm it on your Ledger device.
To send, enter the recipient’s address and approve the transaction on your device, ensuring security with every step.
Thanks to integrated services, you can purchase crypto using your local currency, swap one token for another, or sell digital assets—without leaving the app. All transactions are secured by the Ledger device and processed through trusted partners.
Ledger Live supports staking for multiple proof-of-stake cryptocurrencies. This allows you to earn rewards on your holdings while keeping them secure. Supported assets include Ethereum, Polkadot, Tezos, Solana, and more.
Every supported cryptocurrency requires its app on your Ledger device. Use Ledger Live to easily install or uninstall apps, manage your device storage, and handle multiple wallets with ease.
Keep your recovery phrase offline and private. This is the only way to recover your funds if your device is lost or stolen.
Use a strong PIN and app password. Avoid common PIN combinations and enable security options within Ledger Live.
Only use official software. Always ensure you are using the genuine Ledger Live app and avoid clicking unknown links.
Update regularly. Both the app and the Ledger device receive updates to improve security and functionality.
Ledger offers a comprehensive support center filled with guides, tutorials, and troubleshooting articles. Whether you're setting up your first device or managing advanced accounts, helpful resources are always available.
Reminder: Ledger representatives will never ask for your PIN or recovery phrase.
Ledger Live is more than a wallet management app—it's a complete solution for those looking to manage their digital assets with confidence. Whether you’re holding for the long term, actively trading, or diving into decentralized finance, Ledger Live offers the tools and security you need to succeed.
Getting™ started with Ledger® means taking control of your crypto future—safely, securely, and efficiently.
Begin your crypto journey with confidence. Start with Ledger Live.