One app, hardware-backed security — control your crypto with confidence
Ledger Live is the official application that pairs with Ledger hardware wallets to securely manage wallets, install coin apps, sign transactions, and track portfolio performance. Private keys remain inside the secure element of your device — Ledger Live simply orchestrates signed operations while asking for physical confirmation on your Ledger device for every critical action.
Unbox device → Download Ledger Live → Install connector if prompted → Initialize device → Write down recovery phrase → Install apps → Test small transaction → Keep backups safe
Confirm on device
Ledger Live constructs transactions but the device performs signing — every signature requires your physical confirmation on the device screen, preventing remote signing by malware.
Modular coin support
Install only the apps you need (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.). Uninstalling an app does not remove funds — your recovery phrase remains the master key.
Track balances & performance
Monitor portfolio performance, check market prices, and export reports while keys stay offline on your device.
ADD PLUGING — Connector / helper: why it exists & when you need it
Some operating systems and browser environments require a local connector or helper that enables secure USB or HID communication between Ledger Live and the hardware device. This helper is a local-only component — it does not hold private keys or recovery phrases and only accepts authorized connections from Ledger Live or supported web apps.
What the connector does
The connector facilitates USB/HID/WebUSB communication, provides the appropriate permissions for system-level access on restrictive OSes, and ensures consistent behavior across platforms. Desktop Ledger Live bundles the optimal connector, while some web flows rely on browser features (WebUSB/WebHID).
Security & authenticity
Always download the connector only from Ledger.com/start or official release channels. Verify checksums or signatures if you are a power user. Never run binaries from unsolicited links.
Install steps (quick)
- Download official package from Ledger.com/start.
- Run the installer and accept OS permission prompts.
- Restart Ledger Live and the browser if needed.
- Confirm connector status in Ledger Live (Settings → Device → Connector).
Troubleshooting connector issues
Try original cable & different port. Avoid USB hubs. On mobile, check OTG settings or use a supported adapter.
macOS: Allow the helper at System Preferences → Security & Privacy. Windows: run as Administrator or allow through SmartScreen.
Install udev rules when prompted and reload rules: sudo udevadm control --reload-rules && sudo udevadm trigger.
Temporarily disable strict sandboxing during install and add the helper to allow-list after verifying authenticity.
Setup — initialize your Ledger device & use Ledger Live
Follow this step-by-step setup to ensure device authenticity, correct initialization, and safe backup of your recovery phrase.
Before you start
- Buy only from Ledger.com or authorized resellers.
- Use a trusted computer — avoid public or shared machines.
- Keep the supplied recovery sheet and consider a metal backup for long-term durability.
- Do not take photos, screenshots or digital copies of the recovery phrase.
Go to Ledger.com/start and download the official installer for your OS or the official mobile app from the app store.
Run the installer and follow on-screen instructions. If prompted, install the connector/helper for your OS. Ledger Live will guide you through initialization or recovery flows.
Follow prompts on the device itself to choose a PIN. Set a PIN that is memorable but not guessable. PIN entry is always done on the device to prevent keylogging attacks on the host machine.
Ledger will display a recovery phrase. Carefully write the words on the supplied recovery sheet. Store offline and consider multiple geographically separated backups.
Use Ledger Live Manager to install the apps needed for specific cryptocurrencies and add accounts for each asset you want to manage.
Before transferring large amounts, perform a small send/receive to verify flow and address correctness.
Optional: passphrase & hidden wallets
An optional passphrase (BIP39) can create hidden wallets derived from your recovery phrase plus the passphrase. This offers plausible deniability or extra security but if you lose the passphrase the funds are unrecoverable. Use this carefully.
Security — practical rules that matter
Security is the product of device protections and user behavior. The recovery phrase is the ultimate secret — treat it as such.
Do
- Keep recovery offline and in secure physical storage.
- Verify addresses on the device screen before sending.
- Only use official downloads from Ledger.com/start.
- Test with small transactions before large transfers.
- Update firmware and Ledger Live via official channels.
Don't
- Don’t share your recovery phrase with anyone.
- Don’t enter the phrase into websites, apps, or chat requests.
- Don’t buy second-hand devices unless from authorized programs.
- Don’t use untrusted third-party installers or modified firmware.
If you suspect exposure
If your seed phrase is exposed, transfer funds immediately to a new wallet created with a fresh device and new recovery phrase. Use a trusted machine for the migration and never re-use compromised credentials.
Troubleshooting & Help
Device not detected
Try the original cable, use another USB port, avoid hubs, and restart Ledger Live. On Linux reload udev rules: sudo udevadm control --reload-rules && sudo udevadm trigger. On macOS, look under Security & Privacy for blocked helpers.
Transaction errors
Ensure Ledger Live and firmware are updated, reconnect the device, and retry. If the issue persists, collect logs via the Help → Support menu and contact official support. Never provide your recovery phrase when seeking help.
Lost device
If your device is lost, restore on a new device using your recovery phrase. If seed is lost, funds may be unrecoverable — keep backups secure.
App compatibility
Some blockchains require third-party wallets with Ledger integrations. Use trusted partners and confirm all transaction details on your device.
Advanced & developer guidance
Developers integrating Ledger should use official libraries and recommended transports (WebHID, WebUSB, Bluetooth, native USB). Present clear, human-readable transaction details and never request recovery phrases. Test extensively on testnets.
Recommended transports & notes
- WebHID & WebUSB for browser-based dApps where supported.
- Native USB or platform SDKs for desktop applications.
- Bluetooth for mobile supported devices (respect pairing & proximity security).
- Always provide fallback flows and clear error messaging for missing permissions.
FAQ & Final Checklist
Common questions
- Is Ledger Live required?
- Ledger Live is official and recommended, but certain third-party wallets also support Ledger devices; choose only trusted wallets.
- Does updating firmware erase funds?
- Firmware updates do not erase private keys. Still, keep recovery phrase secure before major operations.
- Can I use Ledger Live on multiple machines?
- Yes. Ledger Live can be installed on any trusted machine — accounts are derived from your recovery phrase and shown when the device is connected and authorized.
Final checklist
- ✔️ Download Ledger Live only from Ledger.com/start.
- ✔️ Use the official connector/helper if prompted.
- ✔️ Initialize device and write down recovery phrase offline.
- ✔️ Verify receiving addresses on the device screen.
- ✔️ Test with a small transaction before large transfers.
- ✔️ Keep firmware & apps up to date via official channels.