What is Ledger Live?
The Ledger Live Wallet is not a wallet in the traditional sense, but rather the essential, user-friendly interface that brings your Ledger hardware device to life. It is the bridge between the security of your offline hardware wallet and the dynamic world of cryptocurrencies. Ledger Live allows users to manage over 5,000 different digital assets—including Bitcoin, Ethereum, stablecoins, and NFTs—all from one secure dashboard. Unlike online 'hot' wallets, Ledger Live is an application you run on your computer or mobile device (the **Ledger Live Desktop** or **Ledger Live App**), where your private keys remain locked away on your physical Ledger device.
This core design philosophy—where the interface (Ledger Live) is separate from the signing device (your Ledger Nano)—is what ensures industry-leading protection against online threats like malware and phishing. Every action, from sending funds to staking, requires physical verification and approval on your Ledger device, making the process inherently secure.
Core Features of the All-in-One App
Intuitive Portfolio
Track your entire crypto and NFT portfolio in real-time. See balances, market changes, and transaction history instantly, eliminating the need for external tracking tools.
Secure Transactions
Access secure services to Buy crypto (via partners), Swap assets instantly, and even Stake certain coins to earn rewards—all within the application environment.
Genuine Device Check
During setup via Ledger.com/start, Ledger Live performs a cryptographic check to verify that your Ledger device is genuine and hasn't been tampered with.
Your First Steps: Ledger.com/start
Visit the Official Start Page
Navigate directly to Ledger.com/start. This is the official, secure gateway for all Ledger device setup and software downloads. Never use external links or search results for the download.
Ledger Live Download (Desktop or Mobile)
Choose the appropriate **Ledger Live Download** for your platform. Options include **Ledger Live Desktop** (Windows, macOS, Linux) and the **Ledger Live App** (iOS/Android). Install the application.
Connect and Setup
Open Ledger Live. The app will guide you through initializing your new device, setting your PIN, and recording your 24-word Secret Recovery Phrase. Once verified, you can install crypto applications on your Ledger and create accounts in Ledger Live.
Ledger Live Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ledger Live Wallet and how does it work?
Ledger Live is the essential software companion for your Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S Plus, Nano X, Stax). It acts as a secure, all-in-one interface allowing you to manage your portfolio, check real-time balances, send, receive, buy, swap, and stake crypto assets. Crucially, Ledger Live never holds your private keys; all transactions are securely signed offline by your Ledger hardware device before being broadcast, ensuring maximum security.
Where can I safely download Ledger Live?
To ensure you avoid phishing scams, always download the official Ledger Live application directly from the official Ledger website, specifically by starting your journey at Ledger.com/start. Links are provided for **Ledger Live Desktop** (Windows, macOS, Linux) and the **Ledger Live App** (iOS and Android app stores).
Is Ledger Live a 'login' wallet?
No. Unlike traditional exchange accounts or 'hot' software wallets, Ledger Live does not require a traditional **Ledger Live Login** with a password and email. Since your private keys are secured on your Ledger device, the app stores data locally on your computer or phone. Your Ledger device and PIN are the only 'keys' needed to authorize transactions.
What steps are required to get started with Ledger Live?
The simplest way to begin is by visiting Ledger.com/start. The process involves three main steps: 1) Acquire a genuine Ledger hardware wallet. 2) Download and install the Ledger Live application (**Ledger Live Desktop** or **Ledger Live App**). 3) Follow the on-screen instructions to initialize your Ledger device (set a PIN, record the 24-word Secret Recovery Phrase) and pair it with the Ledger Live software.