Ledger® Live Wallet™ — Ledger Live Crypto Wallet App

Ledger® Live Wallet™ is the official desktop and mobile application that lets you securely manage your cryptocurrency when paired with a Ledger hardware wallet. This guide covers what the app does, how to set it up, day-to-day usage, security best practices, and advanced features.

What is Ledger Live Wallet™?

Ledger Live is a cross-platform application (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android) that provides a single interface to manage crypto assets while keeping private keys securely stored on your Ledger hardware device (such as Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X). It combines portfolio tracking, account management, sending/receiving, app management, staking, and integrated partner services in one user-friendly application.

  • Supports thousands of tokens and major blockchains.
  • All critical actions (e.g., signing transactions) require approval on your physical Ledger device.
  • Integrates with partner services for buys, swaps, and staking without exposing private keys.

Core Features

Secure Key Storage

Private keys never leave the Ledger device. Ledger Live acts as the interface, while the device signs transactions offline — isolating keys from your internet-connected computer or phone.

Portfolio & Accounts

See your total portfolio value, individual account balances, and transaction history. Add multiple accounts per asset and monitor historical performance over time.

Send & Receive

Send and receive crypto with on-device address verification to prevent address-replacement attacks. Ledger Live displays transaction details, but you must confirm the final payee and amounts on the physical device.

Manager & Firmware Updates

Install or remove cryptocurrency apps on your Ledger device, and apply firmware updates safely through the Manager section in Ledger Live.

Staking & Rewards

Stake supported assets directly from Ledger Live to earn rewards while keeping keys on-device. Staking options vary by coin and region.

Integrated Services

Buy, sell, and swap crypto via integrated partners within Ledger Live. These services are provided by third-party partners and are accessible directly from the app.

System Requirements & Preparation

Before installing Ledger Live, verify your environment:

  • Operating system: Windows 10+ (64-bit), macOS 10.13+, or modern Linux distributions; iOS/Android for mobile versions.
  • Hardware: USB port for Ledger Nano S/Plus; Bluetooth for Ledger Nano X when using mobile.
  • Internet connection for updates, portfolio sync, and partner services.

Download only from the official source: ledger.com/ledger-live. Avoid third-party installers or links received by email or messaging apps.

Install & Initial Setup

Download the App

Go to the official Ledger Live download page and choose the appropriate installer for your platform. The mobile app is available on the Apple App Store and Google Play.

Install & Open

Run the installer and follow the on-screen prompts. Launch Ledger Live; on first run you'll be guided through setup steps, including connecting your Ledger hardware device.

Create or Restore a Wallet

Ledger Live will present options to Set up a new device or Restore a device. If you set up a new device, follow the Ledger device's on-screen instructions to create a PIN and write down your 24-word recovery phrase. If restoring, enter your 24 words on the device when prompted — never type your recovery phrase into Ledger Live or any computer.

Daily Use: Accounts, Send & Receive

Adding Accounts

  1. Open Ledger Live → Accounts → Add account.
  2. Select the cryptocurrency and connect your Ledger device.
  3. Allow Ledger Live to synchronize; your account balance and history will populate.

Receiving Crypto

  1. Choose your account and click Receive.
  2. Connect your Ledger device and confirm the address shown on the device screen.
  3. Use the verified address to receive funds — only send funds to addresses you have confirmed on-device.

Sending Crypto

  1. Click Send, enter recipient address and amount in Ledger Live.
  2. Review fee estimate and transaction details.
  3. Confirm the transaction details on your Ledger device to sign and broadcast.

Tip: For large or unfamiliar transactions, send a small test amount first to confirm the recipient and process.

Security Best Practices

Security is the primary reason to use a hardware wallet plus Ledger Live. Follow these best practices:

  • Never share your 24-word recovery phrase. Ledger or support staff will never ask for it.
  • Write the recovery phrase on the supplied recovery sheet and store it offline in a secure location (consider multiple physical backups in separate secure places).
  • Use a strong device PIN and change it if you suspect compromise.
  • Verify all addresses and amounts on the Ledger device screen, not just in Ledger Live.
  • Keep Ledger Live and your device firmware up to date; updates include security improvements and new features.

Scams & Phishing: Be cautious of websites, emails, or messages that mimic Ledger branding asking for personal details. Always navigate directly to ledger.com for support and downloads.

Manager & App Management

The Manager section in Ledger Live lets you install or remove blockchain apps on your Ledger device and perform firmware updates. Each app corresponds to specific blockchains and tokens. Keep only the apps you need to optimize device storage.

  1. Open Ledger Live → Manager.
  2. Connect and unlock your Ledger device.
  3. Install or remove apps as needed; confirm actions on the device when prompted.

Staking, Swaps & Integrated Services

Ledger Live includes options to stake supported coins (e.g., Tezos, Cosmos, Ethereum when relevant network features are available) directly through the app. Integrated partners also offer buy/sell and swap services from within Ledger Live. These services are provided by third parties — review fees and terms before transacting.

Staking rewards and availability vary by asset and jurisdiction. Check the Ledger Live Discover/Stake sections for current options.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Device not detected: Try a different USB cable/port, ensure the device is unlocked, and grant any OS permission prompts.
  • Sync problems: Restart Ledger Live, check your internet connection, or re-add the affected account.
  • Firmware fails: Ensure the device has sufficient battery (Nano X) and use an original cable. If issues persist, consult official Ledger support resources.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Ledger Live free?

Yes — Ledger Live is free to download and use. Third-party services accessible in the app (buys, swaps, staking) may charge fees.

Can I use Ledger Live without a Ledger device?

No — Ledger Live requires a Ledger hardware wallet to sign transactions and securely manage private keys.

What if I lose my Ledger device?

If you lose your device, you can restore your wallet on a new Ledger device (or compatible wallet) using your 24-word recovery phrase. Protect that phrase carefully — without it funds cannot be recovered.

Final Thoughts

Ledger® Live Wallet™ paired with a Ledger hardware device provides one of the most secure consumer solutions for managing cryptocurrency. It balances robust security — keeping private keys offline — with a modern, convenient interface for monitoring, transacting, and interacting with blockchain services. Whether you’re starting small or managing a diversified portfolio, follow the security best practices outlined here to help ensure your digital assets remain safe.