Ledger Live — Secure Crypto App

Manage, monitor, and secure your cryptocurrency portfolio with a hardware-backed app.

What is Ledger Live?

Ledger Live is a desktop and mobile application designed to help individuals interact with their cryptocurrency assets while keeping private keys secured on a hardware device (Ledger hardware wallet). The app combines portfolio tracking, transaction management, and decentralized application (dApp) interaction with an emphasis on security and user control.

Key Features

Hardware-backed security

Private keys never leave your Ledger device — transactions are signed on-device for maximum protection against remote attacks.

Portfolio overview

See balances across multiple coins and accounts, historical performance, and real-time price updates.

Send & receive

Create, review, and sign transactions with clear on-screen details before confirmation.

Staking & Earn

Support for staking certain PoS tokens directly through the app, letting users earn rewards while maintaining custody.

App catalog & dApps

Access an ecosystem of apps and integrations for DeFi, NFTs, and more — with Ledger keeping the signing secure.

Restore & recovery

Use your 24-word recovery phrase to restore access if a device is lost — the phrase is the only wallet backup you need.

Why security-first matters

Unlike custodial services, Ledger gives you full control of your private keys. While this brings greater responsibility, it also drastically reduces the risk of exchange hacks and third-party custody failures. Ledger Live is intentionally designed to minimize attack surface: sensitive operations require confirmation on the hardware device itself.

  • Two-piece model: Ledger Live (software) + Ledger hardware (secure element).
  • Transaction review: All important transaction details are visible on the hardware screen.
  • Open integrations: Connect to trusted dApps without exposing private keys.

Getting started (quick)

  1. Buy a genuine Ledger hardware wallet from an official source and unbox it.
  2. Install Ledger Live on your computer or phone and follow onboarding steps.
  3. Create a new wallet or restore from a 24-word recovery phrase; write the recovery phrase down and keep it offline.
  4. Install cryptocurrency apps on your Ledger device via Ledger Live and add accounts.
  5. Test by receiving a small amount of crypto, then try sending once you're comfortable.

Visit Ledger Official

Practical tips & best practices

  • Buy only from official retailers. Avoid used or tampered devices.
  • Never share your 24-word recovery phrase. Ledger staff will never ask for it.
  • Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated to benefit from security fixes and new features.
  • Use a passphrase (optional advanced feature) for an additional layer of protection.
  • Consider a hardware or physical safe for long-term storage of your recovery sheet.

FAQ

Is Ledger Live a custodian?
No — Ledger Live is a non-custodial interface. You control the private keys stored on your Ledger device.
What if I lose my Ledger device?
Use your recovery phrase to restore your accounts on a new compatible Ledger device or other supported wallet that accepts BIP39-compatible recovery phrases.
Can I use Ledger Live for NFTs and dApps?
Yes — Ledger Live supports certain NFT workflows and can connect to dApps through integrations, while keeping signing secure on-device.