Updated: September 22, 2025

Welcome to Ledger® Live

Ledger® Live is the official desktop and mobile app to manage your cryptocurrency portfolio with Ledger hardware devices. It combines an intuitive interface with strong security: your private keys stay in your Ledger device while Ledger Live gives you visibility, transaction signing, and portfolio tracking.

Portfolio overview Secure transactions App manager Buy & swap Device pairing

Quick start — 6 simple steps

  1. Download Ledger® Live: Get it from the official Ledger website and install the desktop or mobile app.
  2. Initialize your Ledger device: Follow on-screen instructions to create a PIN and write down your 24‑word recovery phrase safely offline.
  3. Connect & pair: Use USB (or Bluetooth on supported models) to connect your Ledger to Ledger Live and complete pairing.
  4. Install apps: Use Ledger Live's Manager to install crypto-specific apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) on the device.
  5. Add accounts: In Ledger Live, add accounts for the currencies you want to manage — Ledger Live will query the device to discover addresses.
  6. Sign transactions: Approve every transaction directly on your Ledger device to ensure authenticity.

Why this matters

Unlike custodial wallets, Ledger® Live used with a Ledger device gives you full control over private keys. This means stronger resistance to hacks and phishing — but also more responsibility: if you lose your recovery phrase, there is no central authority to restore funds for you.

Detailed walkthrough

This section expands the quick-start into a full guided flow with best practices and troubleshooting tips for each step.

1. Before you begin

Check your environment: use a trusted computer or mobile device, ensure your OS is updated, and avoid public Wi‑Fi when initializing. Have a pen and paper for your recovery phrase — never store it digitally.

2. Installing Ledger® Live

Visit the official Ledger website, select your operating system, download, and install. Ledger® Live will guide you through initial setup and pairing with your device.

3. Managing apps & accounts

Use the Manager tab to install cryptocurrency apps to your Ledger device. Each app supports transactions for specific coins — install only the ones you need to save space. Then, add accounts in Ledger® Live; the app creates read-only account entries linked to your device for balance and transaction history.

4. Receiving & sending funds

To receive funds, always verify the receiving address shown in Ledger® Live matches the address on your device. When sending, enter the amount in Ledger® Live and confirm the details on your device before approving the signature.

5. Recovering wallets

If your device is lost or damaged, a new Ledger device (or compatible wallet) plus your 24-word recovery phrase can restore access. Keep the phrase in a physically secure place; consider using a fireproof safe or secure custody service for large holdings.

6. Updating firmware

Ledger periodically releases firmware updates to improve security and add features. Update using Ledger® Live when prompted, and follow on-screen instructions carefully — do not share your recovery phrase.

Troubleshooting checklist

FAQs

Is Ledger® Live free?

Yes — Ledger® Live app is free to download and use. Network fees apply when sending transactions, and optional services (buy/swap) may involve third-party fees.

Can I use Ledger® Live without a Ledger device?

Ledger® Live requires a Ledger hardware device for full functionality. Some features like portfolio tracking can be used read-only, but signing transactions requires the device.

What happens to my crypto if Ledger stops operating?

Your crypto exists on the blockchain; Ledger provides the secure keys. With your recovery phrase, you can restore access using other compatible wallets if Ledger services become unavailable.