Ledger Live App® — Official Ledger Mobile & Desktop Application

Overview — what Ledger Live is and why it matters

Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile application from Ledger that acts as the control center for Ledger hardware wallets (Nano S Plus, Nano X, and other models). It provides a secure interface for managing accounts, installing blockchain apps, sending and receiving assets, staking, swapping, and monitoring portfolio performance. Crucially, Ledger Live is built around a hardware-rooted security model: private keys are generated and stored on the Ledger device and never exposed to the host computer or phone.

Core capabilities

Download & platform support

Ledger Live is available for modern desktop platforms (Windows, macOS, Linux) and mobile platforms (iOS and Android). Always download the app or installer from Ledger's official website or the official app stores to avoid counterfeit or malicious copies. The desktop application will guide you through installing the relevant drivers and connecting your Ledger device; the mobile app supports Bluetooth pairing for Nano X and wired OTG connections for other models.

Step-by-step setup (desktop)

1. Download Ledger Live: Visit the official Ledger website and download the desktop installer for your operating system.
2. Install and launch: Run the installer and open Ledger Live. Grant any system permissions required for USB access.
3. Choose setup path: Select to set up a new device, restore from an existing recovery phrase, or connect an already-initialized device.
4. Follow on-device prompts: Your Ledger will display prompts for firmware installation, PIN setup, and seed generation—complete these steps on the hardware unit.
5. Install blockchain apps: Open the Manager tab in Ledger Live and install the apps you need on-device.
6. Add accounts: After installing apps, add accounts for each blockchain to track balances and create addresses for receiving funds.

Step-by-step setup (mobile)

On mobile, Ledger Live provides the same core functionality with a mobile-first interface. For Nano X, Bluetooth pairing allows wireless use; for other models, wired OTG connections or desktop pairing remain options.

1. Install the mobile app: Download Ledger Live from the Apple App Store or Google Play (verify the publisher is Ledger SAS).
2. Pair your device: For Bluetooth-capable devices, enable pairing mode on the Ledger and accept the pairing on your phone.
3. Complete onboarding: Follow the prompts to create or restore a wallet and install necessary apps via the Manager flow.
4. Enable biometric unlock: Use FaceID or fingerprint for local unlocking while the Ledger device remains the signing authority.

Security model — what makes Ledger Live safe

The key security principle is separation: Ledger Live is a user interface and network layer; the Ledger device is the secure element where private keys live. All sensitive cryptographic operations, including signing transactions, happen on the hardware device. Ledger Live constructs unsigned transactions, the device displays transaction details for user verification, and the device signs only after explicit physical approval. This architecture helps protect funds even if the host computer or phone becomes compromised.

Best practices for security

• Always keep your recovery phrase offline: write it on paper or store it on a hardened metal backup. Never photograph or type it into a device.
• Buy Ledger hardware only from official channels or authorized resellers to avoid tampered units.
• Regularly update Ledger Live and device firmware — updates often include security patches and compatibility improvements.
• Verify receive addresses on the device screen rather than relying solely on the host UI.
• Use a secure host environment — updated OS, reputable security software, and avoid public Wi-Fi when transacting large amounts.

Daily workflows & tips

For routine use, maintain a small “hot” wallet for everyday spending and keep significant holdings in Ledger-secured accounts. Use Ledger Live to label accounts, export transaction history for bookkeeping, and set up portfolio alerts or price notifications. When interacting with new services, send a small test amount first and verify on-device that the recipient address is correct.

Troubleshooting common issues

Device not detected

• Try a different USB cable or port (use the original cable when possible).
• Restart Ledger Live and your computer or phone.
• Reinstall Ledger Live or Bridge (if using web flows) and ensure drivers are up to date.

Bluetooth pairing problems (Nano X)

• Disable and re-enable Bluetooth on your phone, forget the device, and retry pairing.
• Confirm firmware and app compatibility for Bluetooth connections.

Firmware update fail

• Do not disconnect the device during an update. If an update fails repeatedly, follow Ledger’s recovery instructions or contact official support.

Advanced features & power-user workflows

Ledger Live supports advanced workflows such as staking (for PoS chains), integration with DeFi via external connectors, and partially signed transaction (PSBT) workflows for air-gapped signing or multisig setups. Power users can combine Ledger devices with multisig coordinators to create multi-signature wallets for institutional-grade custody and shared control.

Final checklist before moving large funds

• Your recovery phrase is securely backed up in multiple physical locations.
• Device firmware is up to date and the device was purchased from an official source.
• Receive addresses were verified on-device and a small test transaction was successful.
• Ledger Live is downloaded from the official site or official app stores.

Ledger Live provides a polished, secure interface that unlocks the power of Ledger hardware. It combines convenience with strong security practices intended for both newcomers and advanced users. Follow official guidance, verify everything on-device, and maintain good seed hygiene — these habits make hardware-backed custody one of the safest ways to store digital assets.