Complete guide to installing, setting up, and securely using Ledger Live for cryptocurrency management.
Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile application that allows you to manage your cryptocurrency portfolio securely with your Ledger hardware wallet. It serves as the interface between your device and the blockchain, enabling you to send, receive, and track your digital assets.
Track all your cryptocurrency holdings in one place with real-time balance and price information.
Send and receive cryptocurrencies with the security of your Ledger hardware wallet.
Create and manage multiple accounts for different cryptocurrencies and purposes.
All transactions require physical verification on your Ledger device for maximum security.
Before downloading, ensure your system meets these requirements:
Always download Ledger Live from the official website to avoid malware:
When you first launch Ledger Live:
To connect your Ledger hardware wallet for the first time:
Ledger devices require specific apps for each cryptocurrency:
Ledger Live will verify your device's authenticity:
To add cryptocurrency accounts to Ledger Live:
Ledger Live provides a comprehensive portfolio view:
For each account, you can:
To receive cryptocurrencies to your Ledger wallet:
To send cryptocurrencies from your Ledger wallet:
Ledger Live integrates with third-party services for swapping and buying crypto:
Always verify receiving addresses and transaction details on your Ledger device screen, not just on your computer.
Keep both Ledger Live and your device firmware updated to benefit from the latest security improvements.
Never enter your recovery phrase on any computer or phone. Only use it to restore your Ledger device.
Be wary of phishing attempts. Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase or private keys.
Regularly update your Ledger device firmware:
Enhance your security in Ledger Live settings:
If your Ledger device isn't connecting properly:
If transactions are failing or stuck:
If your balances aren't updating correctly:
If you need additional help:
Yes, Ledger Live Desktop is completely free to download and use. There are no subscription fees for the basic functionality of managing your cryptocurrency portfolio, sending, and receiving transactions.
Some advanced features like swapping cryptocurrencies may involve third-party service fees, but the Ledger Live application itself remains free.
Ledger Live Desktop is specifically designed to work with Ledger hardware wallets. While you can install and open the application without a device, you cannot create accounts, send transactions, or access most features without connecting a Ledger device.
The primary security benefit of Ledger comes from keeping your private keys isolated on the hardware device, so the desktop application acts as an interface rather than a standalone wallet.
Ledger Live Desktop includes an automatic update mechanism:
You can also manually check for updates in Settings → Help → Check for updates.
Some antivirus programs may incorrectly flag cryptocurrency applications as potentially unwanted programs (PUPs). Here's what to do:
Ledger Live is digitally signed by Ledger SAS. You can verify this in the application properties on Windows or by checking the developer on macOS.
Yes, you can install and use Ledger Live Desktop on multiple computers. Your accounts and transaction history will sync across installations when you:
Your cryptocurrencies remain secure on your Ledger device, not on any single computer. You can safely access your funds from any computer with Ledger Live installed by connecting your hardware wallet.
While both applications provide access to your Ledger wallet, there are some differences:
For initial setup and managing multiple cryptocurrencies, the desktop application is generally recommended.
For the most current information and direct support, always refer to official Ledger resources: