1. What is Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is the desktop and mobile companion application for Ledger hardware wallets. It lets you manage multiple accounts across hundreds of cryptocurrencies, check balances, send and receive assets, install apps on your hardware device, and connect to decentralized applications securely. Ledger Live combines convenience and a hardware-rooted security model so custody of private keys remains with you — on the device.
Key capabilities
- Multi-asset wallet and portfolio overview.
- Send and receive crypto with transaction history and analytics.
- Swap and staking integrations (third-party services available within the app).
- App management for Ledger hardware devices (install/remove blockchain apps).
- Secure firmware updates and device management.
2. Security model (why Ledger Live + a Ledger device)
Ledger Live is a user-facing app that never holds your private keys; those keys are generated and stored inside the hardware device’s secure element. The app communicates with the device to request signature approvals. This separation dramatically reduces attack surface: even if your computer is compromised, attackers cannot extract private keys from the hardware device without physical access and the device PIN.
Important security concepts
- Seed phrase (recovery phrase): A 24-word phrase that unlocks your accounts. Store it offline and never share it.
- PIN protection: The device requires a PIN to be used; multiple incorrect attempts can wipe the device.
- Firmware signatures: Ledger signs firmware updates to ensure authenticity.
3. Setting up Ledger Live (high-level steps)
- Download Ledger Live from the official site and verify the checksum or signature if offered.
- Create or restore a Ledger device using the provided steps (choose a new device or recover with your recovery phrase).
- Install apps for the blockchains you want to use (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.).
- Add accounts in Ledger Live and synchronize balances.
- Practice sending a small test transaction before moving large amounts.
Pro tip: always download Ledger Live only from the official site and cross-check the URL to avoid phishing sites.
4. Daily workflows
Receiving assets
Use the Receive flow to generate a fresh address on your device and confirm it visually on the hardware wallet screen before sharing it.
Sending assets
When sending, Ledger Live builds the transaction, then the device displays the amount and recipient address for you to confirm and sign. Carefully verify both on the device display.
Advanced features
- Staking and delegated services for supported assets.
- Built-in swap and exchange integrations.
- Portfolio analytics and exportable transaction history.