Ledger® Live — Getting Started | official Ledger™

Managing crypto securely doesn’t have to be complicated. Ledger® Live is the official companion app designed to help users manage, buy, sell, stake, and monitor digital assets while keeping private keys safely offline with a Ledger™ hardware wallet.

This guide walks you through getting started with Ledger Live, explains its core features, and shows why it’s a trusted choice for crypto self-custody.

What Is Ledger® Live?

Ledger Live is a desktop and mobile application developed by Ledger™, a global leader in hardware wallet security. It acts as a control center for your crypto assets, allowing you to interact with blockchains while your private keys remain protected inside your Ledger device.

Unlike online wallets or exchanges, Ledger Live never stores your private keys on the internet. All sensitive actions must be physically approved on your Ledger hardware wallet.

Why Use the Official Ledger™ Live App?

Using the official Ledger Live app ensures maximum security, compatibility, and feature access. Third-party wallet apps may expose users to phishing risks or outdated integrations, while Ledger Live is continuously updated and verified by Ledger.

Key Benefits at a Glance

  • Offline private key protection
  • Direct integration with Ledger hardware wallets
  • Support for thousands of cryptocurrencies and tokens
  • Secure transactions with on-device verification
  • Built-in crypto services (buy, sell, swap, stake)

Supported Ledger Devices

Ledger Live works seamlessly with the following Ledger™ hardware wallets:

  • Ledger Nano S Plus
  • Ledger Nano X
  • Ledger Stax

Each device connects to Ledger Live via USB or Bluetooth (model-dependent), ensuring flexibility without sacrificing security.

How to Get Started With Ledger® Live

1. Download Ledger Live From the Official Source

Always download Ledger Live directly from Ledger’s official website or verified app stores. This helps avoid fake apps designed to steal recovery phrases.

Ledger Live is available for:

  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux
  • iOS
  • Android

2. Set Up Your Ledger™ Hardware Wallet

When launching Ledger Live for the first time, you’ll be guided through setting up your Ledger device. This includes:

  • Creating a PIN code
  • Generating a 24-word recovery phrase
  • Confirming the phrase on the device itself

⚠️ Important: Never store your recovery phrase digitally or share it with anyone.

3. Connect Ledger Live to Your Device

Once your device is ready, connect it to Ledger Live. The app will verify authenticity and ensure your firmware is up to date before allowing full access.

This verification step helps protect against tampered or counterfeit devices.

Managing Crypto Assets With Ledger Live

Add and Manage Accounts

Ledger Live allows you to add multiple accounts for different cryptocurrencies, all linked to your Ledger hardware wallet.

Supported assets include:

  • Bitcoin (BTC)
  • Ethereum (ETH)
  • Solana (SOL)
  • Polygon (MATIC)
  • Thousands of ERC-20 and other tokens

Send and Receive Crypto Securely

Every transaction must be reviewed and approved on your Ledger device’s screen. This ensures:

  • Correct wallet addresses
  • Accurate transaction amounts
  • Protection against malware or clipboard hijacking

Even if your computer is compromised, your funds remain secure.

Buying, Selling, and Swapping Crypto

Ledger Live integrates trusted third-party services that allow users to:

  • Buy crypto with fiat
  • Sell crypto directly to a bank account
  • Swap tokens without leaving the app

All transactions still require confirmation on the Ledger device, keeping control firmly in your hands.

Staking and Earning Rewards

Ledger Live supports staking for several cryptocurrencies, allowing users to earn passive rewards while retaining custody of their assets.

Popular staking options include:

  • Ethereum
  • Solana
  • Polkadot
  • Tezos

You maintain full ownership of your crypto throughout the staking process.

Keeping Ledger® Live Secure

Best Security Practices

  • Only download Ledger Live from official sources
  • Never enter your recovery phrase into Ledger Live or any website
  • Verify transaction details on your hardware wallet screen
  • Keep your Ledger device firmware updated

Ledger Live will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase.

Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid

  • Storing recovery phrases digitally
  • Using unofficial Ledger Live downloads
  • Ignoring on-device transaction verification
  • Falling for fake support emails or pop-ups

Security starts with user awareness.

Is Ledger Live Beginner-Friendly?

Yes. Ledger Live is designed with a clean interface and guided setup process, making it accessible even for users new to crypto. At the same time, it offers advanced tools for experienced investors who want deeper control.

Final Thoughts: Why Ledger® Live Matters

Ledger® Live combines usability with industry-leading security, making it a powerful tool for anyone serious about crypto self-custody. By pairing the app with a Ledger™ hardware wallet, users gain full control over their digital assets without relying on centralized platforms.

If you’re looking for a secure, all-in-one crypto management solution, getting started with the official Ledger Live app is a smart first step.