Ledger® Live — Getting Started | official Ledger™ Live App
Ledger Live serves as the official software interface for Ledger hardware wallets, enabling users to securely manage cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and DeFi activities from a single, intuitive platform. Available on desktop and mobile, it pairs seamlessly with devices like the Ledger Nano S Plus and Nano X, keeping private keys offline while providing powerful on-chain tools. This app transforms complex blockchain interactions into user-friendly experiences without compromising security.
Core Features
Ledger Live supports over 5,500 cryptocurrencies and tokens across major blockchains including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and Polygon. Users can create and manage multiple accounts, view real-time balances, and track transaction histories in a clean dashboard. The portfolio tracker displays asset allocation, performance charts, and market trends, helping investors monitor holdings without third-party apps.
Built-in services allow direct buying with fiat via partners like MoonPay, selling assets for cash, and swapping tokens cross-chain through integrations like Changelly. NFT management lets users send, receive, and display collections securely, avoiding risky dApp connections. Staking options for assets like ETH, DOT, and SOL offer rewards with clear APY estimates and lock-up details.
Security remains paramount: all transactions require physical approval on the hardware device, ensuring private keys never leave the secure chip. Features like Ledger Recover (backup service) and anti-phishing alerts add layers of protection. The app receives frequent firmware and feature updates, with open-source components for transparency.
Key Benefits
Ledger Live prioritizes self-custody, eliminating reliance on centralized exchanges where hacks pose risks. Users retain full control over funds while accessing exchange-like functionality—buy, swap, stake—all from a non-custodial environment. This reduces exposure to platform failures, as seen in past exchange collapses.
The unified interface saves time by consolidating portfolio tracking, trading, and earning into one app, outperforming fragmented tools like separate explorers or trackers. Beginners appreciate the guided setup and tutorials, while pros benefit from advanced analytics like historical P&L charts and risk assessments. Mobile Bluetooth support (Nano X) enables on-the-go management without cables.
Cost efficiency stands out: no subscription fees, low swap spreads via partners, and staking yields often exceed centralized alternatives (e.g., 4-7% on ETH). Regular security audits and proactive threat detection, such as scam contract warnings, minimize losses from phishing or malicious dApps.
Advanced Usages
For power users, Ledger Live unlocks DeFi participation without seed exposure. Connect to dApps via WalletConnect for lending on Aave, liquidity provision on Uniswap, or yield farming—signatures confirm on-device. The "Discover" section integrates apps like 1inch for optimized swaps and CoinGecko for market data.
Developer and Custom Integrations Table
Automated Dollar-Cost Averaging (DCA) schedules recurring buys, mitigating volatility—set weekly BTC purchases directly in-app. Advanced staking includes liquid options (e.g., stETH) for composability in DeFi. NFT senders support batch operations and metadata verification, streamlining collections management.
Portfolio stress-testing simulates market drops, aiding risk management. For institutions, multi-account segmentation isolates hot/cold wallets. Pair with Ledger Enterprise for hardware security modules (HSMs) in regulated setups.
Security and Best Practices
Transactions demand hardware confirmation, blocking malware or keyloggers. Enable passphrase for hidden accounts and use the app's validator checker for staking to avoid slashing. Always verify addresses on-device and update firmware via official channels—fake apps have scammed users.