What is Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is the official companion application for Ledger hardware wallets, providing a secure interface to manage your cryptocurrency portfolio, execute transactions, and access decentralized services while keeping your private keys protected by your hardware device.
Unified Crypto Management
Ledger Live brings together portfolio tracking, secure transactions, staking services, and crypto exchanges into one intuitive application that works seamlessly with your Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax device.
Security First: Ledger Live never has access to your private keys. All sensitive operations require physical confirmation on your Ledger device, ensuring your assets remain secure even if your computer is compromised.
Current Version: 2.70.0 | Release Date: January 2024 | Supported OS: Windows 10+, macOS 10.14+, Linux, iOS 14+, Android 8+
Installation Guide
Desktop Application
Recommended for Full Features
- Full portfolio management
- Built-in exchange
- Staking services
- NFT management
- Advanced settings
- All device support
Mobile Application
On-the-Go Access
- Portfolio tracking
- Send & receive crypto
- Bluetooth support (Nano X/Stax)
- Push notifications
- Mobile-optimized
- Biometric security
System Requirements
Desktop Requirements:
- Windows: Windows 10 or later (64-bit)
- macOS: macOS 10.14 (Mojave) or later
- Linux: Ubuntu 18.04+, Fedora 30+, or similar
- RAM: 4GB minimum, 8GB recommended
- Storage: 500MB available space
- Internet: Broadband connection
Mobile Requirements:
- iOS: iPhone with iOS 14.0 or later
- Android: Android 8.0 (Oreo) or later
- Bluetooth: Required for Nano X/Stax mobile use
- Storage: 200MB available space
Installation Steps
1 Download from Official Source
Visit ledger.com/ledger-live/download and select your operating system. Always download from official sources to avoid malware.
2 Install Application
Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions. On Windows, you may need to allow the installation through User Account Control.
3 Initial Setup
Launch Ledger Live and choose between setting up a new device or connecting an existing Ledger. The application will guide you through the initial configuration.
4 Connect Your Ledger
Connect your Ledger device via USB (or Bluetooth for Nano X/Stax) and unlock it with your PIN. Ledger Live will automatically detect your device.
Security Check: Always verify you're downloading from the official Ledger website. Check the digital signatures if possible, and never install Ledger Live from third-party sources.
Key Features Overview
Ledger Live Dashboard
• Total Portfolio: $---
• 24h Change: +--%
Asset Allocation:
• Bitcoin: --%
• Ethereum: --%
• Other: --%
Recent Activity:
• Received 0.5 ETH
• Sent 0.1 BTC
Portfolio Tracking
Real-time balance tracking with price charts, performance metrics, and asset allocation overview.
Send & Receive
Secure cryptocurrency transactions with address validation and hardware wallet confirmation.
Transaction History
Detailed transaction records with labels, notes, and export capabilities for tax reporting.
Security Center
Monitor device security, check genuine status, and receive security recommendations.
Advanced Features
App Manager
Install, update, and manage cryptocurrency applications on your Ledger device. Each crypto asset requires its own app for management.
Account Management
Create multiple accounts for different purposes (savings, trading, etc.) and organize them with custom labels and colors.
NFT Gallery
View and manage your NFT collections directly within Ledger Live with support for Ethereum and Polygon NFTs.
Custom Fees
Choose between economy, standard, and custom fee levels for your transactions based on current network conditions.
Trading & Exchange Features
Ledger Live includes integrated cryptocurrency exchange services, allowing you to swap assets directly within the application while maintaining custody of your funds.
Built-in Exchange
Swap between 100+ cryptocurrency pairs directly within Ledger Live through integrated partners like Coinify, Changelly, and ParaSwap.
DEX Connectivity
Access decentralized exchanges like 1inch and ParaSwap for token swaps with better rates and no KYC requirements.
Buy Crypto
Purchase cryptocurrencies with fiat currency through integrated providers, with funds going directly to your Ledger-secured addresses.
Sell Crypto
Convert your cryptocurrencies back to fiat currency and transfer to your bank account through supported exchange partners.
How to Trade in Ledger Live
1 Navigate to Exchange Tab
Select the "Exchange" option in Ledger Live to access the trading interface with available swap providers.
2 Select Trading Pair
Choose the cryptocurrencies you want to exchange and enter the amount. Ledger Live will show available rates from different providers.
3 Compare Offers
Review exchange rates, fees, and processing times from different providers. Select the best option for your needs.
4 Confirm on Ledger
Review the transaction details on your Ledger device screen and physically confirm the exchange with button presses.
5 Complete Exchange
The exchange service will process your trade. The converted funds will appear in your wallet typically within 5-30 minutes.
Non-Custodial Advantage: Unlike trading on centralized exchanges, Ledger Live exchanges are non-custodial. You maintain control of your private keys throughout the entire process, and funds never leave your wallet without your explicit confirmation on the Ledger device.
Mobile App Experience
Ledger Live Mobile App - Portfolio View
Mobile-Exclusive Features
Bluetooth Connectivity
Connect your Ledger Nano X or Stax wirelessly via Bluetooth for convenient mobile access without cables. (Note: Nano S Plus requires USB connection)
Push Notifications
Receive instant notifications for price alerts, completed transactions, and important security updates.
Biometric Authentication
Secure app access with Face ID, Touch ID, or fingerprint recognition for quick and secure entry.
QR Code Scanner
Use your phone's camera to quickly scan receiving addresses and payment requests, reducing address entry errors.
Sync Feature: Your portfolio data and settings automatically sync between desktop and mobile versions of Ledger Live, providing a seamless experience across all your devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Ledger Live is completely free to download and use. There are no subscription fees or hidden costs. You only pay standard blockchain network fees when sending transactions, and exchange fees when using the built-in trading features.
No, Ledger Live is specifically designed to work with Ledger hardware wallets. For security reasons, it doesn't support software wallets or other hardware wallet brands. You need a connected Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax) to use the application.
The desktop version offers full functionality including exchange features, staking, NFT management, and advanced settings. The mobile version focuses on portfolio tracking, sending/receiving, and basic management with Bluetooth support for Nano X and Stax devices.
Ledger Live receives regular updates with new features, security improvements, and support for additional cryptocurrencies. The desktop application can be set to update automatically, while mobile versions update through app stores. Major updates typically occur every few months.
Yes, you can install and use Ledger Live on multiple computers. Your wallet data is stored on your Ledger device, so you can access the same accounts from any computer with Ledger Live installed. Your portfolio data and settings are synchronized through Ledger's servers.
Your funds remain completely safe on the blockchain, accessible through your Ledger device. You can use your recovery phrase with any compatible wallet software to access your funds. Ledger Live is just an interface - it doesn't store your cryptocurrencies.