Securely manage your crypto portfolio with Ledger® Live.
Introduction to Ledger® Live
Ledger® Live is the official desktop and mobile application developed by Ledger® to help users manage, send, and receive cryptocurrency assets safely. This powerful app provides real-time portfolio tracking, secure transaction verification, and device management directly through your Ledger hardware wallet.
Before diving in, ensure you have a Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S, Nano X, or Nano S Plus) and that your device is set up with a PIN code and recovery phrase. Ledger® Live will not work without your hardware device, ensuring maximum security for your assets.
Note: Ledger® Live communicates directly with your hardware wallet. Your private keys never leave your device, making Ledger one of the most secure solutions for cryptocurrency management.
Step 1: Download & Install Ledger® Live
Ledger® Live is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. Follow these steps:
Choose your operating system and download the installer.
Open the downloaded file and follow the installation instructions.
Once installed, launch Ledger® Live to begin the setup.
Tip: Always download Ledger® Live from the official website to avoid phishing or malicious software.
Step 2: Initialize Ledger® Live
Upon opening Ledger® Live for the first time, you will see two options:
Set up as new device: Choose this if your Ledger is brand new and you need to initialize it.
Restore from recovery phrase: Use this if you already have a Ledger device with a recovery phrase.
Select the option that applies to your situation and follow the guided steps. Ledger® Live will prompt you to connect your device via USB or Bluetooth (Nano X) and verify your PIN code.
Step 3: Connect Your Ledger Device
To connect your Ledger device to Ledger® Live:
Plug your Ledger device into your computer using the USB cable.
Unlock your device with your PIN code.
Ledger® Live will detect the device and guide you to the dashboard.
Security Reminder: Never enter your recovery phrase on your computer or online. It should only be entered on your Ledger device when restoring.
Step 4: Ledger® Live Dashboard Overview
The Ledger® Live dashboard is your main hub for managing crypto assets. Key sections include:
Portfolio: See all your crypto assets in one place with real-time balances and market value.
Accounts: Add different crypto accounts like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more.
Send/Receive: Send funds securely to another wallet or receive funds directly into your Ledger accounts.
Manager: Install, update, and manage apps on your Ledger device.
Settings: Customize your app experience, enable security features, and check updates.
Step 5: Adding Accounts
Ledger® Live allows you to manage multiple cryptocurrency accounts. To add an account:
Open Ledger® Live and navigate to the Accounts tab.
Click Add account and select the crypto asset.
Follow the on-screen instructions to synchronize your Ledger device.
Your account balance and transaction history will appear once synced.
Step 6: Sending & Receiving Crypto
Sending crypto securely through Ledger® Live:
Go to the Send tab.
Choose the account and enter the recipient address.
Verify the transaction details on your Ledger device before confirming.
Receiving crypto is simple:
Go to the Receive tab.
Select the account and verify the address displayed on your device.
Share this address with the sender to receive funds.
Important: Always verify addresses on your Ledger device. Addresses shown on your computer could be compromised by malware.
Step 7: Updating Ledger® Live & Device
Ledger regularly releases updates to improve security and add new features. To update:
Open Ledger® Live and go to Settings > About.
Check for the latest version of Ledger® Live.
For device firmware updates, connect your Ledger and follow the Manager instructions.
Tip: Always back up your recovery phrase before performing a firmware update to prevent loss of access.
Step 8: Security Best Practices
Never share your recovery phrase or PIN with anyone.
Always verify addresses and transaction details on your Ledger device.
Enable passphrase protection for additional security if desired.
Keep Ledger® Live updated and avoid downloading unofficial software.
Step 9: Ledger® Live Mobile App
Ledger® Live also offers a mobile version for iOS and Android:
Install the Ledger® Live app from the official app store.
Pair it with your Ledger device via Bluetooth (Nano X) or QR code.
Monitor your portfolio, send, and receive crypto securely on the go.
Conclusion
Ledger® Live simplifies cryptocurrency management while maintaining top-tier security. By following this guide, you can securely log in, manage your accounts, send and receive funds, and keep your Ledger device updated. Remember, your security depends on your careful handling of the device and recovery phrase. With Ledger® Live, you have full control of your crypto journey.