Secure Hardware Wallet Management for Your Crypto
Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile software interface that allows users to manage their Ledger hardware wallets securely. With Ledger Live, you can send and receive cryptocurrencies, install apps on your Ledger device, monitor your portfolio, update firmware, and more—all while your private keys remain offline on your device.
The architecture is designed to ensure that sensitive operations happen on-device, and only signed transactions are transmitted to the blockchain. This separation keeps your keys safe even if your computer or mobile is compromised.
To get started, navigate to Ledger.com/Start. That page will detect your operating system and offer the appropriate download (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android).
Here is a simplified installation flow:
Select whether you are installing on desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux) or mobile (iOS, Android).
Click the “Download” button, and the installer file will download to your device.
Run the installer; allow required permissions (e.g. access to USB for device communication).
Once installed, open Ledger Live and connect your Ledger hardware wallet. The software should detect the device and prompt you to choose setup or restore.
After installation and device connection, Ledger Live offers features such as:
Every transaction must be verified on your Ledger device physically, which ensures that malicious software on your host cannot silently sign transactions.
Security is the heart of Ledger’s design. Here are essential practices to keep your funds safe:
Record your 24-word recovery phrase on durable media (e.g. metal plate) and store it in a secure location. Do not store it digitally.
Choose a non-obvious PIN and consider enabling a passphrase to add a second layer of security (hidden wallet).
Always verify the address, amount, and fees directly on your Ledger device before approving any transaction.
Regularly update Ledger Live and your device’s firmware to receive security patches and new features.
Only download Ledger Live from official sources (ledger.com). Watch out for fake emails or links claiming to be Ledger updates.
No. Ledger Live is designed to work in conjunction with a Ledger hardware wallet. Without the device, you cannot send transactions or sign messages—only portfolio viewing may be possible.
Yes, Ledger Live is safe to run on standard operating systems, but security of the host machine still matters. A compromised computer can attempt phishing or trick you into approving malicious actions, so always confirm on device.
Ensure your USB cable is good, your device is powered, drivers are installed, and no conflicting software is blocking USB communication. Try re-launching or reinstalling Ledger Live.
No. Your funds reside on the blockchain. As long as you have your recovery phrase, you can restore your wallet on any compatible software or Ledger Live reinstallation.
Ledger Live supports a broad set of major cryptocurrencies and tokens. However, not all tokens are native in Ledger Live—some may require third-party wallets integrated with Ledger.