Introduction
Ledger Live is the official companion application for Ledger hardware wallets. It enables secure management of digital assets, allowing users to buy, sell, stake, track, and interact with cryptocurrencies. This guide provides a full overview of setup, account management, transactions, staking, NFT handling, third-party integrations, security measures, and troubleshooting.
1. Installing Ledger Live
Download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website and verify checksums where available. Install on your desktop or mobile device, granting only necessary permissions for Ledger hardware device connectivity.
2. Pairing Your Ledger Device
Connect your Ledger device via USB or Bluetooth. Open Ledger Live and pair your device using the Manager. Confirm prompts on-device to ensure security. The device keeps private keys offline while Ledger Live acts as the interface.
3. Adding Accounts
Install blockchain apps via Ledger Live Manager and add accounts for each crypto asset. Organize accounts with clear labels for easy management.
4. Receiving Crypto
Generate receive addresses using Ledger Live and verify on-device. This prevents malware or clipboard attacks from misdirecting funds.
5. Sending Crypto
Initiate transactions in Ledger Live and approve them on your hardware device. Check addresses, amounts, and network fees carefully before confirming.
6. Buying & Selling Crypto
Ledger Live partners with trusted providers to facilitate buying and selling cryptocurrencies. Review quotes, fees, and confirm all operations on-device. Never share your recovery phrase.
7. Staking Assets
Stake supported cryptocurrencies using Ledger Live while keeping keys secure on the device. Check rewards, lockup periods, and fees before confirming staking operations.
8. Portfolio Management
Ledger Live provides portfolio dashboards for tracking balances and performance. Export reports and monitor holdings efficiently. Note that market data is indicative and not on-chain authoritative.
9. NFTs & Media
View and manage supported NFTs in Ledger Live. For marketplace interactions or transfers, connect to reputable third-party interfaces, confirming all actions on-device.
10. Third-Party Integrations
Ledger Live integrates with trusted wallets and DeFi platforms. Confirm permissions and transaction details on-device for secure operations.
11. Security Best Practices
- Never disclose recovery phrases.
- Set a strong PIN on the Ledger device.
- Keep Ledger Live and firmware updated from official sources.
- Confirm all transactions on-device.
- Maintain multiple offline backups of recovery phrases.
12. Passphrase & Hidden Wallets
Enable passphrases for additional hidden wallets if needed. Loss of the passphrase results in permanent loss of access. Manage carefully.
13. Troubleshooting
Resolve connectivity or update issues by restarting Ledger Live or checking connections. Consult official Ledger support when needed. Never enter recovery phrases into any website or application to fix problems.
14. Privacy Considerations
Ledger Live collects limited analytics to improve services. You may opt out. Avoid address reuse and minimize public sharing of metadata to maintain privacy.
15. Final Checklist
- Download Ledger Live from the official website.
- Pair Ledger device and set a secure PIN.
- Record recovery phrases securely.
- Verify addresses and amounts on-device for all transactions.
- Use only official integrations and maintain updated software.