What is Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is the companion application that brings your Ledger hardware wallet to life. It provides a streamlined interface to install apps for supported networks, create and manage accounts, monitor balances, and approve transactions that you verify on your device’s screen. The application is designed with security as the first principle: sensitive keys never leave the secure element of your wallet, while the desktop app acts as a clean, convenient dashboard for everyday use.
Getting started is simple. After unboxing your Ledger device and completing the initial setup, visit this page to download the latest version of Ledger Live for Windows, macOS, or Linux. The installer guides you through a quick compatibility check and connects the app to your device via USB. From there, you can add accounts for popular cryptocurrencies, receive funds to your addresses, and confirm outgoing transactions directly on the hardware wallet. Because every action requires a physical approval, malware on your computer cannot move your assets without your consent.
Beyond basic send and receive, Ledger Live offers portfolio tracking, coin management, and access to features that vary by network—such as staking, token approvals, or swapping through integrated partners. The design focuses on clarity, minimizing the possibility of mistakes while keeping advanced options available for power users. Automatic updates help you stay current with the latest security patches and performance improvements.
Security hygiene matters. Download software only from official sources, keep your operating system updated, and verify checksums when they are provided. Your 24-word recovery phrase is the master key to your accounts; store it offline, never in a screenshot or cloud document, and never type it into any website. If a site or person asks for your phrase to “restore” or “verify” your wallet, it is a scam. With these simple practices, Ledger Live becomes a powerful command center for your digital assets: fast, transparent, and designed for long-term self-custody.
Hardware-first security: keys remain inside the secure element; Ledger Live never exposes your secret keys.
Easy connectivity: add accounts, view portfolios, and approve each transaction on-device.
Automatic updates: keep both the app and device firmware current for best compatibility.