Ledger® Live — Login & Getting Started | Getting Started Guide
Ledger Live Wallet
Ledger Live is the desktop and mobile companion app for managing cryptocurrency when using a hardware wallet. It puts your balance, transaction history and account controls in one place while keeping your private keys isolated on a hardware device.
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Hardware-backed security
Private keys never leave your hardware device. Transactions are signed on-device so online exposures are minimized.
Portfolio overview
See asset balances, value in your chosen fiat currency, and a consolidated portfolio view with recent activity.
Send, receive & swap
Send and receive supported assets easily. Built-in swap or partner services allow token exchanges without exposing keys.
Why choose Ledger Live?
Ledger Live acts as both a secure gateway and a user-friendly interface. It bridges the military-grade security of a hardware wallet with features that everyday users expect: clear transaction flows, address verification, backup & recovery helpers, plus integrations for staking and apps.
Quick facts
- Works with Ledger hardware devices (e.g., Ledger Nano series).
- Available for Desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux) and Mobile (iOS, Android).
- Supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies and tokens.
- Portfolio and transaction history with export options.
Pro tip
Always verify the receiving address on your hardware device screen before approving a transaction — this protects you from malware or clipboard tampering.
Supported actions
- Account creation & import using recovery phrase
- Send / receive transactions
- Staking & delegation (for supported blockchains)
- Swap and exchange via integrated third-party providers
Security model — hardware + software
Ledger Live is the software layer that interacts with a physical hardware wallet. The critical piece of security is the separation of duties:
- Hardware device: stores private keys and signs transactions locally.
- Ledger Live app: builds transactions, shows balances and sends unsigned payloads to the device for signing.
- Recovery phrase: a user-held backup (typically 24 words) that restores accounts if the device is lost. Keep it offline and secure.
Best practices include setting a PIN on the hardware device, keeping recovery phrases offline, verifying addresses on-device and using official Ledger Live downloads only from the vendor's website or official app stores.
Getting started
- Download Ledger Live from the official source and install on your desktop or mobile device.
- Initialize or connect your Ledger hardware device and follow onboarding prompts.
- Create accounts for the assets you want to manage and install necessary apps on the hardware device when prompted.
- Use the portfolio tab to view balances and the send/receive tabs to make transactions — approve each on the hardware device.
If you already have a recovery phrase from another device, Ledger Live supports restoring accounts — but only restore to a device you fully trust.
Common questions
Can Ledger Live store my crypto without a hardware device?No — Ledger Live is designed to be used with a hardware wallet. The hardware device is what holds your private keys. Ledger Live itself is the interface.Is Ledger Live free?The Ledger Live application is available to download at no cost. Third-party services integrated into the app (like swaps or custodial offers) may charge fees.What happens if I lose my hardware device?If you have your recovery phrase, you can restore your accounts to a new compatible device. If the recovery phrase is lost, funds cannot be recovered.Can I stake with Ledger Live?Yes — Ledger Live supports staking and delegation for several proof-of-stake networks through built-in or integrated options. Check the app for supported blockchains and terms.Ledger Live Wallet — Manage your digital assets securely. Always verify downloads and store recovery information offline.This page is informational and does not constitute financial or security advice.