Ledger™  Live | Download and install Ledger Wallet™

Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile application that transforms your Ledger hardware wallet from a secure storage device into a complete cryptocurrency management ecosystem. This powerful, intuitive platform serves as your unified dashboard for managing, growing, and securing digital assets while maintaining the uncompromising security of Ledger hardware wallets. 

Think of Ledger Live as your personal crypto bank interface, but one where you—not a financial institution—retain complete control over your assets, private keys, and financial decisions.

Major Cryptocurrencies:

• Bitcoin & forks: BTC, BCH, LTC

• Ethereum ecosystem: ETH + all ERC-20 tokens

• Cardano: ADA with staking

• Polkadot: DOT with nomination

• Cosmos: ATOM with delegation

• Solana: SOL with staking

• And 5,000+ additional assets

Specialized Support:

• Stablecoins: USDT, USDC, DAI on multiple chains

• Privacy coins: XMR (via third-party apps)

• Gaming tokens: MANA, SAND, AXS

• Meme coins: DOGE, SHIB (with full security)

Initial Setup Process:

• Download Ledger Live from ledger.com/ledger-live

• Install application on desktop/mobile

• Connect Ledger device via USB/Bluetooth

• Initialize device if new, or restore existing wallet

• Install apps for each cryptocurrency needed

• Add accounts for different assets

• Configure preferences for optimal experience

Advanced Configurations:

• Multiple device management (family/business use)

• Hidden accounts with passphrase protection

• Custom node connections for privacy

• Experimental features for early access

• Developer mode for app installations

Three-Layer Security Architecture:

Layer 1: Hardware Security

• Private keys never leave Ledger device

• Secure Element chip (CC EAL5+ certified)

• Physical confirmation required for all transactions

Layer 2: Application Security

• Genuine check for connected Ledger devices

• Auto-lock after inactivity periods

• Encrypted communication with devices

• Automatic security updates

Layer 3: Network Security

• Manifest system for app verification

• Certificate pinning to prevent MITM attacks

• Regular security audits by external firms

• Transparent update logs

Q1: Is Ledger Live mandatory for using a Ledger device?

A: No, Ledger Live is not mandatory but highly recommended. Ledger devices can work with compatible third-party wallets like MetaMask, Electrum, or Phantom. However, Ledger Live provides the most integrated, secure, and feature-rich experience specifically designed for Ledger hardware.

Q2: What happens if Ledger Live servers go down?

A: Your funds remain completely accessible. Ledger Live is a non-custodial application—your private keys never touch their servers. You can still access your funds through third-party wallet interfaces or, in extreme cases, restore your wallet using your 24-word recovery phrase on any BIP39-compatible wallet.

Q3: Are there fees for using Ledger Live?

A: Ledger Live itself is completely free. However, certain features incur costs:

• Swap/Exchange: Network fees + small service fee (0.25-1.5%)

• Transactions: Standard blockchain network fees

• Staking: Variable validator fees (typically 5-10% of rewards)

• Ledger Recover: Subscription fee (if opted in)

Q4: Can I use multiple Ledger devices with one Ledger Live?

A: Yes! Ledger Live supports managing multiple devices simultaneously. Each device maintains its own accounts and security, allowing you to:

• Separate personal/business funds

• Create redundancy with multiple backups

• Manage family members' devices

• Upgrade to new devices while keeping old ones active

Q5: How secure is the built-in exchange feature?

A: Extremely secure. When swapping through Ledger Live:

• Funds never leave your custody until the last moment

• Transactions require physical confirmation on your device

• Rates are aggregated from trusted partners (Changelly, ParaSwap, etc.)

• Each step is verified on your Ledger screen

• This eliminates the risk of sending to wrong addresses or exchange hacks.

Q6: Does Ledger Live work without an internet connection?

A: Partially. While you can view your portfolio and transaction history offline, most features require internet:

• Online required: Sending, swapping, staking, price updates

• Offline possible: Checking balances (cached), viewing addresses, preparing transactions

For maximum security, you can prepare transactions offline and broadcast them from an online machine.