Ledger Live — Secure management for Ledger hardware wallets
Ledger Live is the companion application for Ledger hardware wallets. This guide explains how to obtain Ledger Live securely, the features it provides for asset management, how Ledger Live integrates with the Ledger ecosystem, and the key security practices recommended for self-custody users.
What Ledger Live is and how it works
Ledger Live is a desktop and mobile application that connects to Ledger hardware wallets to manage cryptocurrency accounts, send and receive assets, buy or sell supported cryptocurrencies, swap tokens, stake certain assets, and view NFTs and portfolio balances. Ledger Live acts as a secure user interface while private keys remain isolated on the hardware device.
Where to download Ledger Live and verify installers
Always download Ledger Live exclusively from Ledger’s official download page and verify the integrity of installers when possible. Ledger publishes hashes and signature files so users can validate an installer’s authenticity before running it; verifying installers is a recommended step to reduce the risk of tampered or counterfeit binaries.
Core features and capabilities in Ledger Live
Ledger Live consolidates common wallet tasks into a single interface: account creation and management, transaction signing via the hardware wallet, buy/sell on-ramps, cross-chain swaps, staking flows for select assets, NFT display and management, and a built-in manager for installing or removing apps on Ledger devices. The application is designed to be the primary point of interaction for most Ledger users.
- Account and portfolio overview with transaction history
- Asset swaps and integrations with liquidity providers
- Staking and yield opportunities for supported tokens
- Device manager for apps and firmware updates
- NFT viewing and metadata display
Supported assets and compatibility
Ledger Live supports thousands of crypto assets across many blockchains through native integrations and token support. For assets not available natively in Ledger Live, Ledger devices can often be used with supported third-party wallets while preserving hardware-backed key security. Always consult the official supported assets list before assuming full compatibility for a given coin or token.
Security model and best practices
The security model relies on keeping private keys in a hardware device (Secure Element) and using Ledger Live only as a transaction builder and viewer. Users must never disclose their recovery (seed) phrase: Ledger Live or Ledger support will never ask for it. Recommended best practices include verifying download signatures, keeping firmware up to date via Ledger Live’s device manager, purchasing devices from authorized channels, and using a separate, secure environment for recovery phrase storage.
Common risks and how to mitigate them
Risks include phishing sites, counterfeit applications that mimic Ledger Live, social engineering, and compromised endpoints. Mitigations include always confirming the download source, validating cryptographic signatures when provided, avoiding entering recovery phrases into any app or website, and treating any unsolicited support request with suspicion. If you encounter a prompt claiming to require your recovery phrase, consider it a scam and stop immediately.
Integrations and third-party wallet support
Ledger Live is part of a broader ecosystem: it integrates with exchange and service partners for buy/sell flows, and the Ledger device can be connected to decentralized application wallets that have Ledger support. When using third-party wallets, verify that the wallet explicitly supports hardware-wallet connections and follow the wallet vendor’s guidance to ensure proper transaction signing through the device.
Troubleshooting and official support
If Ledger Live reports errors or a device is not recognized, consult Ledger’s official support documentation and follow the step-by-step troubleshooting articles. For persistent or high-risk situations, use Ledger’s official support channels—never share recovery phrases through chat, email, or phone. For software integrity concerns, compare installer checksums against Ledger’s published values.
Practical checklist before you start with Ledger Live
Before first use, complete the following checklist to minimize risk and ensure a smooth experience:
- Download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website and verify the installer when feasible.
- Initialize your Ledger device from the device itself; do not import seed phrases generated elsewhere.
- Record the recovery phrase offline and keep it in a secure, private location—never share it.
- Enable device PIN and install only necessary apps via Ledger Live’s manager.
- Keep Ledger Live and device firmware up to date and verify any update prompts.