Complete instructions for accessing your Ledger Live application, connecting your hardware wallet, and managing your cryptocurrency portfolio with military-grade security.
Ledger Live provides a secure interface to manage your cryptocurrency assets stored on your Ledger hardware wallet. Follow these steps to securely access your portfolio.
Download and install the official Ledger Live application from the Ledger website. Ensure you're downloading from the official source to avoid malicious software. Ledger Live is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems.
Connect your Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S, Nano X, or Nano S Plus) to your computer using the provided USB cable. For Ledger Nano X, you can also connect via Bluetooth for wireless access. Ensure your device is charged if using Bluetooth connection.
Enter your PIN code directly on your Ledger hardware wallet using the physical buttons. Your private keys never leave the secure element of your hardware device, ensuring maximum security even when connected to a potentially compromised computer.
Launch the Ledger Live application on your computer. The application will automatically detect your connected Ledger device and establish a secure connection. Ensure you allow the connection if prompted on your device screen.
Once connected, you'll have full access to your Ledger Live dashboard where you can view your portfolio balance, send and receive transactions, install apps for different cryptocurrencies, and access various DeFi services through the Discover tab.
Ledger Live offers multiple ways to access your cryptocurrency portfolio depending on your device and preferences.
Find answers to common questions about Ledger Live access and hardware wallet security.
If Ledger Live doesn't recognize your device, try these troubleshooting steps:
If problems persist, contact Ledger Support with specific details about your setup and the error messages you're receiving.
If your cryptocurrency balance isn't displaying correctly in Ledger Live:
You can always verify your actual balance by checking your public address on a blockchain explorer specific to that cryptocurrency.
To update your Ledger device firmware:
Important: Always ensure your recovery phrase is safely stored before performing a firmware update. While updates are generally safe, having your recovery phrase ensures you can always recover your funds if anything goes wrong.
Ledger Live has limited functionality without your hardware device connected:
However, to perform any actions that require private key access (sending transactions, managing accounts, installing apps), your Ledger hardware device must be connected and unlocked. This security design ensures that your private keys never leave the secure element of your hardware wallet.
Ledger Live differs from traditional software wallets in several key aspects:
While software wallets offer convenience, Ledger Live with a hardware device provides enterprise-grade security for your cryptocurrency assets.
Maximize the security of your cryptocurrency assets by following these essential practices for your Ledger hardware wallet.
Write your 24-word recovery phrase on the provided recovery sheet and store it in multiple secure locations. Never digitize it or store it in cloud services. Consider using a metal backup solution for fire and water protection.
Always verify the recipient address, amount, and network fees directly on your Ledger device screen before confirming any transaction. This prevents malware from altering transaction details on your computer.
Set a complex PIN code for your Ledger device (up to 8 digits). Avoid using obvious combinations like 123456 or repeating digits. Your device will wipe after 3 incorrect PIN attempts, protecting your funds from physical theft.
Keep your Ledger device firmware updated to benefit from the latest security patches and features. Only update through the official Ledger Live application to avoid counterfeit firmware.
Only download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website. Be cautious of emails, messages, or ads claiming to be from Ledger. Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase or PIN.
For advanced security, enable the passphrase feature to create hidden wallets. This adds an additional word to your recovery phrase, creating a completely separate set of accounts that are invisible without the passphrase.
If you're experiencing connection issues with your Ledger device:
If your transaction is stuck or has failed:
If you can't install cryptocurrency apps on your Ledger device: