Ledger Live is the official application by Ledger that allows you to manage hardware wallets, check balances, send and receive assets, install and update apps on your Ledger device, and interact with decentralized apps. It provides a secure interface between your hardware wallet and your computer or mobile device.
Ledger Live simplifies hardware wallet interactions while preserving security. It handles firmware updates, app management, portfolio tracking, and integrates with third-party services. For users holding crypto assets, Ledger Live combined with a Ledger hardware device offers one of the safest ways to custody private keys.
When you first open Ledger Live, you can either create a new configuration for a brand new Ledger device or manage an existing device. If you already have a Ledger device with a recovery phrase, choose "Restore device" only on the device itself — in Ledger Live, choose "Manager" to pair the device.
Ledger devices use small apps on the device for each cryptocurrency. Use Ledger Live's Manager to install the apps you need (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). Then add accounts via Accounts > Add account and follow prompts to synchronize balances.
If you have a Ledger Nano X, you can pair it to Ledger Live Mobile using Bluetooth. For other devices, use an OTG cable or rely on desktop first. Make sure you only connect/pair directly through the official Ledger Live app.
Use the mobile app to add accounts, view balances, and send/receive transactions. Transactions initiated in Ledger Live must be confirmed on the hardware device — this is the key security model.
Try a different USB cable or port. On Windows, ensure Ledger drivers are installed; on macOS check System Preferences > Security & Privacy for blocked software. Restart Ledger Live and the device.
Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone and the device is in pairing mode (follow Ledger Nano X pairing instructions). Remove old pairings and retry if pairing fails.
Check available space on the device; each app takes space. Remove unused apps from the Manager and try again. Ensure Ledger Live is up to date.
Ledger support will never ask for your recovery phrase. If anyone requests it, it's a scam. Store your recovery phrase offline (metal seed plates are recommended).
Use only the official Ledger website and the links listed above to download Ledger Live or read support articles. Avoid third‑party mirrors and unsolicited download links.
Firmware updates are critical for security. When prompted to update, read release notes on the official site and follow update instructions. Only apply updates from Ledger Live while your device is connected and you confirm on the device screen.
Ledger Live can connect to web3 wallets or use third‑party integrations for DeFi. Always double‑check the dapp URL and transaction details on your device before confirming.
Test your recovery process on a spare device if possible. Consider keeping a second copy of your recovery phrase in a separate secure location (e.g., safety deposit box).
No — Ledger Live is designed to manage hardware wallet devices. Without a device, you cannot access private keys or sign transactions securely.
Yes — Ledger Live is free to download and use. You will, however, need a Ledger hardware device to secure private keys.
Ledger Live is the recommended, secure application to manage Ledger hardware wallets. Download only from official Ledger pages, keep your recovery phrase offline, and confirm every transaction on your device. With careful setup and adherence to security best practices, Ledger Live provides a robust way to manage cryptocurrencies safely on desktop and mobile.