What is Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is a desktop and mobile application designed to let users manage, monitor, and secure their cryptocurrency from a single interface. It connects to a hardware wallet to keep private keys offline while letting you perform everyday crypto tasks — check balances, send and receive coins, install apps on your hardware device, and explore decentralized finance (DeFi) and staking opportunities.
Core features
Secure key storage
Private keys never leave your hardware device — Ledger Live talks to the device and broadcasts signed transactions, so your keys remain isolated from internet risks.
Portfolio at a glance
See balances and market value for multiple accounts and assets in one place. Customizable views let you focus on the coins and tokens that matter to you.
Built-in exchanges and staking
Interact with third-party services for swapping tokens or staking certain assets directly from Ledger Live, with clear fees and counterparty information.
Security model
Security is the guiding principle behind Ledger Live. The app relies on a hardware wallet to store private keys in a secure element. When you create an account, a recovery phrase is generated and must be stored safely offline — never share it with anyone. Ledger Live itself performs local verification steps and displays transaction details so you can confirm actions on the device before signing.
User experience & privacy
The user interface focuses on clarity and minimalism: a dashboard for balances, a transaction history that shows confirmations, and quick access to device manager tools. Ledger Live collects limited telemetry by default and gives transparent controls for opt-out; you can review privacy settings and permissions from the settings screen.
How to get started
- Download Ledger Live from the official website and install it on your desktop or mobile device.
- Open the app and follow the onboarding to pair your Ledger hardware wallet or to restore an existing recovery phrase.
- Create or add accounts for supported coins and tokens — Ledger Live will synchronize balances and update market prices.
- For sending crypto, always verify the transaction details on your hardware device screen before approving.
Best practices
- Always verify the download source and checksum — obtain Ledger Live only from the official domain.
- Keep your recovery phrase offline: write it on paper or use a certified metal backup.
- Update both the Ledger Live app and your device firmware regularly to receive security patches and improvements.
Common questions
Can Ledger Live manage multiple hardware devices? Yes — you can connect multiple devices and manage accounts for each one from the same app.
Is Ledger Live custodial? No — Ledger Live is non-custodial: you always hold the keys (in hardware), and Ledger does not access your funds.
Closing thoughts
Ledger Live provides a balanced blend of security and usability for people who want to hold and manage crypto without exposing their private keys to online threats. It works best when paired with a hardware wallet and sensible operational security: safe backups, firmware updates, and cautious use of third-party services. Whether you are an occasional holder or an active participant in staking and DeFi, Ledger Live is built to make the essentials simple while keeping high-security practices front and center.
Tip: Always confirm transaction details on your hardware device screen before approving. Your device is the final arbiter of signature safety.