What is Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is a desktop and mobile application designed to work with hardware wallets to securely manage cryptocurrency assets. It acts as the secure gateway between the user and their private keys, enabling safe transactions, account management, and portfolio tracking without exposing secrets to Internet-connected services.
Core features
- Hardware-backed private key storage and transaction signing.
- Real-time portfolio overview and historical performance charts.
- Multi-currency support, staking and app integrations.
Security-first design
The application is intentionally minimal on sensitive operations — all private keys and critical cryptographic operations remain isolated in the hardware device. Ledger Live provides signed communication and a verified firmware update path so users keep full control of their crypto.
Simple, modern user experience
With a guided onboarding flow, transaction previews, and clear confirmation screens, Ledger Live reduces user error while preserving power-user features. The UI shows balances, pending transactions, and actionable alerts to keep users informed.
How Ledger Live helps individuals and teams
Individuals benefit through private-key ownership, loss mitigation, and straightforward staking options. Businesses and teams can use multi-account management and reporting to integrate crypto holdings into financial workflows. Ledger Live's export capabilities make record-keeping and audits simpler.
Use cases
- Long-term holders who want air-gapped private keys.
- Active traders who require quick portfolio snapshots.
- Organizations needing transparent accounting for crypto assets.
Best practices with Ledger Live
Always verify the address on the hardware device's screen before confirming a transaction, keep firmware up to date using official releases, and store recovery phrases in a secure, offline location. Combine Ledger Live with basic operational security (unique passwords, phishing awareness) for best results.
Accessibility & portability
Ledger Live provides both desktop and mobile interfaces; visual contrast and keyboard navigation are considered during design. Users should pair devices via approved channels and avoid connecting hardware wallets to untrusted software.
Integration & ecosystem
Ledger Live supports integrations with decentralized applications and service partners for buying, swapping, and staking tokens. An open ecosystem means third-party wallets or services can build compatible experiences while the hardware device remains the root of trust.
Reporting and exports
Export transaction histories for tax reporting or accounting. Ledger Live formats and CSV exports help map on-chain activity into conventional financial reports that accountants and bookkeepers expect.
Summary — value proposition
Ledger Live is a bridge between secure hardware custody and day-to-day portfolio management. It reduces the friction of interacting with on-chain assets while preserving maximum security for private keys and recovery material.