1 — Overview
What is Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is the official companion application for Ledger hardware wallets, providing a unified interface to manage your cryptocurrency assets with state-of-the-art security. It connects your Ledger device to the blockchain, enabling secure transactions, portfolio tracking, and access to a growing ecosystem of crypto services.
2 — Key Features
Core capabilities
Ledger Live offers portfolio management for 5,500+ assets, secure transaction signing, built-in crypto purchases, staking services, NFT management, and real-time market data. The app provides a seamless experience across desktop and mobile platforms.
Why users choose it
Ledger's combination of hardware security, intuitive interface, and comprehensive asset support makes it the preferred choice for both beginners and advanced crypto users seeking maximum protection for their digital assets.
3 — Security Model
Secure Element Chip
Ledger devices use certified Secure Element chips—the same technology found in passports and credit cards—to store private keys in complete isolation. Your keys never leave the device, providing protection against remote attacks.
BOLOS Operating System
Ledger's proprietary Blockchain Open Ledger Operating System (BOLOS) ensures each application runs in a sandboxed environment, preventing vulnerabilities in one app from affecting others or the core system.
4 — Product Line
Ledger Nano S Plus
The entry-level device with Secure Element protection, supporting 100+ apps simultaneously. Perfect for beginners and those managing a focused portfolio of cryptocurrencies.
Ledger Nano X
The premium device featuring Bluetooth connectivity, larger storage capacity, and support for 5,500+ assets. Ideal for advanced users managing diverse portfolios across desktop and mobile.
5 — Setup & Onboarding
Getting started
Ledger Live guides users through device initialization, PIN creation, and 24-word recovery phrase generation. The intuitive setup process emphasizes security best practices from the very beginning.
Tip
Always purchase Ledger devices directly from the official website to avoid tampered or counterfeit products.
6 — Managing Assets
Day-to-day operations
Ledger Live enables sending and receiving crypto, tracking portfolio performance, staking to earn rewards, and exploring Web3 applications—all while maintaining the highest security standards through hardware confirmation.
7 — Recovery & Backup
The 24-word recovery phrase
Your 24-word recovery phrase is the master key to your crypto assets. Store it securely offline—preferably using metal backup solutions for protection against physical damage.
Device recovery
If your Ledger device is lost or damaged, you can restore your entire wallet on a new device using your recovery phrase. Your crypto remains safe on the blockchain.
8 — Advanced Tools
Developer & power user features
Ledger Live supports advanced operations like coin control, connecting to external wallets, and exploring decentralized applications. Developers can leverage Ledger's security for building next-generation financial services.
9 — Best Practices
Security guidelines
Always verify transaction details on your device screen, keep firmware updated, never share your recovery phrase, use strong PINs, and enable passphrase protection for hidden wallets when appropriate.
10 — Next Steps & Resources
Action plan
1) Download Ledger Live (desktop or mobile). 2) Set up your Ledger device with a secure PIN. 3) Securely back up your 24-word recovery phrase. 4) Transfer a small amount to test the process. 5) Gradually move more assets as you become comfortable.