What is Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is the desktop and mobile application that pairs with Ledger hardware wallets to let users view balances, manage accounts, and approve transactions securely from a local device. Unlike custodial services, Ledger Live works with hardware that keeps private keys isolated from networked machines — all sensitive approvals require confirmation on the physical device. This approach reduces exposure to remote compromise and phishing attacks while offering a modern, consolidated interface for portfolio tracking and integrated services. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Core features you should know
Add multiple accounts for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and supported tokens; monitor balances in real time.
Transactions are signed only after you confirm details on the Ledger device itself.
Integrated partners allow buying, swapping, and staking from within Ledger Live (third-party providers).
Getting started — official flow
1) Download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website and choose the installer that matches your operating system. 2) Connect your Ledger hardware device and follow the on-device prompts to initialize or recover a wallet. 3) Add accounts and enable the cryptocurrencies you want to manage. Always verify installer signatures and checksums where Ledger publishes them to prevent tampered binaries. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Security & verification (short checklist)
- Only download from ledger.com. Bookmark the official pages to avoid lookalike domains. - Verify signatures/checksums on desktop installers when provided. Ledger publishes signature hashes to help users confirm authenticity. - Never enter your 24-word recovery phrase into any app or website — legitimate Ledger flows never ask for it. - Confirm every transaction on the device screen before approving. Hardware confirmations are the ultimate safeguard. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Threats in the wild — what to watch for
Fake Ledger installers and malicious apps have been used to capture recovery phrases and replace legitimate apps on compromised machines. Recent reporting highlights macOS campaigns distributing counterfeit Ledger apps that request seed phrases during fake error flows — treat any prompt for your recovery phrase as an immediate scam. If you suspect a fake app, uninstall it and contact Ledger Support. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Advanced tips for power users
Use a dedicated, updated machine for high-value operations, enable full-disk encryption, and minimize installed browser extensions that can inject content. If you rely on the desktop app, keep firmware and app versions up to date. Consider using multiple Ledger devices for separation of duties (e.g., one device for daily use, another for long-term cold storage). :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Support & official resources
For step-by-step guides, troubleshooting, and official downloads, visit Ledger’s Help Center and Start pages. If you need account or device assistance, open a ticket through Ledger Support — don’t trust unsolicited support offers outside Ledger’s official channels. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Disclaimer: This article is an independent guide-style page intended to explain Ledger Live concepts and security best practices. It is not hosted by or a substitute for Ledger SAS official documentation. Always verify downloads and support contact information directly at ledger.com.