Ledger Live – Official Wallet Management Guide
What Is Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is the official companion app for Ledger hardware wallets such as Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X. The application is designed to help users safely store, track, and manage their digital assets in one secured interface. It works hand-in-hand with the Ledger device, ensuring your private keys remain offline and fully protected.
With Ledger Live, users can add crypto accounts, monitor real-time market values, buy and sell selected coins, stake supported assets, and validate transactions directly on the hardware wallet screen. It acts as a secure dashboard for your entire crypto portfolio.
Step 1: Install Ledger Live
To begin, download and install Ledger Live for your desktop or mobile. It works on:
Windows
macOS
Linux
iOS and Android
Only download the app from the official source. Avoid using modified or unofficial installers, as they may compromise wallet security. After installation, open the app and choose how you want to set up your Ledger device.
Step 2: Connect Your Ledger Device
Once the app opens:
Connect your Ledger Nano using a USB cable.
If using Ledger Nano X on mobile, you can choose Bluetooth.
Enter your device PIN when prompted.
Ledger Live will automatically detect your device and verify its current status. If an update is available, the application will notify you.
Step 3: Perform Firmware Update
Firmware updates enhance security and improve usage features. If Ledger Live requests an update:
Approve the update request in the app.
Confirm the installation on your device screen.
Never install firmware manually or from external sources. The app manages everything in a secure manner.
Step 4: Choose Setup Type
You will get two setup options on your screen:
Create a New Wallet
Restore Using Recovery Phrase
To create a new wallet, select Create a New Wallet. This process generates a unique crypto wallet where private keys stay safely stored inside the Ledger device.
Step 5: Save Your Recovery Phrase
Your Ledger device will display a 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is your only backup. Write it down physically and store it safely. Follow these important rules:
Do not take photos or store it on your phone/computer.
Never enter it on any app or website.
Keep it hidden, offline, and inaccessible to others.
Do not share it with anyone, even Ledger support.
Anyone with access to your seed phrase can take control of your funds. Protect it as you would protect your bank PIN and identity documents.
Step 6: Add Apps and Accounts
To manage different cryptocurrencies, you must install their applications through Ledger Live. Each supported crypto has its own app. After installing an app:
Choose Add Account
Select the coin (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum)
Allow synchronization with the blockchain
Once synced, you can send, receive, and manage that asset through Ledger Live.
Step 7: Use Ledger Live to Manage Crypto
Your Ledger wallet is now ready. Ledger Live allows you to:
View balances and portfolio growth
Send and receive crypto securely
Exchange supported assets through integrated partners
Stake tokens such as Polkadot, Ethereum, or Tezos
Verify all transaction details on the hardware device
No transaction is approved unless physically confirmed on your Ledger screen, making it resistant to malware or phishing attempts.
Core Security Features of Ledger Live
1. Private Keys Stay Offline
Keys are never stored inside Ledger Live or on your computer. They remain inside the secure chip of the Ledger device.
2. Verified Transaction Confirmation
You must validate every send or swap operation using the device screen, preventing address manipulation.
3. Certified Security Chip
Ledger devices use high-security chips similar to those used in passports and payment cards.
4. Password Protection for Ledger Live
You can set a password to restrict app access. Even if someone gets into the app, they still cannot move funds without the physical device.