Overview — What is Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is the desktop and mobile application that connects to Ledger hardware wallets, enabling users to manage multiple blockchains, monitor balances, send and receive assets, and interact with NFTs in one unified interface. Designed with a focus on security and usability, Ledger Live provides a synchronized wallet experience powered by your Ledger device's private keys which never leave the hardware.
Core Features of Ledger Live
Portfolio & Balances
Track portfolio performance across dozens of cryptocurrencies and tokens. Ledger Live aggregates holdings and displays fiat-equivalent values, historical charts, and performance summaries to help you make informed decisions.
Send, Receive & Swap
Securely send and receive crypto with your Ledger hardware wallet. Many regions also get access to integrated swap and buy services directly inside Ledger Live, making on-ramps and token swaps convenient while keeping custody with your device.
NFT Management
Ledger Live supports browsing and viewing NFTs across supported chains. You can verify ownership and metadata from your device while keeping private keys secure.
App Catalog & Integrations
Install third-party blockchain apps (e.g., Ethereum, Solana) on your Ledger device through Ledger Live. Integrations enable dApp connections and DeFi interactions while ensuring transaction signing happens on-device.
Getting Started — Setup & First Steps
To start using Ledger Live, download the official app for your platform, create or restore a Ledger hardware wallet, and follow the in-app prompts to add accounts. Always verify you downloaded the app from Ledger's official distribution channels and check signatures where provided. During initial setup you'll create a recovery phrase; store this phrase offline and never share it.
- Download Ledger Live and install the latest firmware on your Ledger device.
- Create or restore your wallet and write down the recovery phrase securely.
- Add accounts for the blockchains you use (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.).
- Send a small test amount before performing large transfers to confirm addresses.
Security Best Practices
Security is paramount when managing digital assets. Ledger Live is designed to work in tandem with a hardware wallet so private keys never leave your device. Follow these rules to protect your funds:
- Never enter your recovery phrase into a computer or online form.
- Buy devices only from authorized retailers; avoid second-hand hardware.
- Keep Ledger Live and device firmware updated to the latest stable versions.
- Enable device passcodes and keep recovery information offline and fireproof if possible.
How Ledger Live Handles NFTs
Viewing and verifying NFTs in Ledger Live keeps metadata checks on-device where possible, helping confirm provenance and ownership. While Ledger Live may not be a full-featured NFT gallery for every chain, it provides a secure way to verify and sign transactions related to NFT transfers and marketplace interactions.
Pro tip: use Ledger Live together with trusted marketplace dApps and always preview transaction details on your Ledger device's screen before approving.
Practical Tips & Workflow Suggestions
- Keep a dedicated account for high-value assets and another for regular trading to minimize risk.
- Regularly export transaction history from Ledger Live for bookkeeping and tax reporting.
- When interacting with DeFi, use small test transactions and verify contract addresses carefully.
- Use the built-in app manager to uninstall unused blockchain apps and reduce attack surface.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is Ledger Live free to use?
- Yes — Ledger Live is free to download and use. You do need a Ledger hardware device to hold private keys securely.
- Can Ledger Live manage NFTs on multiple chains?
- Ledger Live supports NFTs on several major chains; support may vary by network. For full gallery features, some users combine Ledger Live with specialized NFT tools while keeping signatures on-device.
- What should I do if I lose my Ledger device?
- If you lose your device, obtain a new Ledger or compatible hardware wallet and restore your accounts using your recovery phrase. Never share your recovery phrase with anyone.
- Does Ledger Live ever access my private keys?
- No. Ledger Live communicates with your Ledger hardware wallet but private keys remain isolated inside the device.
- How often should I update Ledger Live?
- Install updates as they arrive; they often include compatibility improvements and important security patches.
- Can I use Ledger Live on multiple devices?
- Yes — you can install Ledger Live on multiple machines. Your Ledger hardware device and recovery phrase remain the source of authority for accounts.