What is Ledger Wallet?
Ledger Wallet is the modern evolution of the Ledger ecosystem — the application and experience formerly known as Ledger Live, redesigned and expanded to be the all-in-one crypto wallet for everyone from beginners to advanced users.
Ledger Wallet combines a secure hardware device with a flexible desktop and mobile interface. It allows you to self-custody your assets, which means you control your private keys locally on your device. Unlike custodial services that hold keys on your behalf, Ledger Wallet ensures private key material never leaves the hardware. This approach gives you strong protection against remote hacks, phishing, and server compromise while keeping everyday actions like sending, receiving, and checking balances fast and simple.
Key features
Unified Portfolio
Track Bitcoin, Ethereum, altcoins, stablecoins, and NFTs in a single unified portfolio view with historical performance charts and transaction history.
Hardware Security
Private keys live on a Ledger device (Secure Element). Approve every transaction with a physical button — your wallet requires you to confirm actions locally.
Staking & Yield
Stake supported assets directly from the wallet, earn rewards, and manage validator choices without sacrificing the security of your keys.
Cross-Platform
Use Ledger Wallet on desktop and mobile. Keep a synchronized portfolio and manage multiple accounts across devices.
Apps & DApps
Connect to web3 interfaces safely via native integrations and curated third-party apps while keeping key approval on the device.
Recovery & Backups
Industry-standard recovery phrases let you restore accounts to a compatible device if needed — keep your recovery phrase offline and secure.
How Ledger Wallet works — simple steps
- Acquire a Ledger device — set it up, choose a PIN, and write down your recovery phrase.
- Install Ledger Wallet on desktop or mobile, then pair the app with your device.
- Add accounts for the coins you own; the app downloads live balances and displays your portfolio.
- Approve transactions directly on your hardware device so keys never leave the secure element.
- Manage and explore staking, apps, and NFTs from the same interface with clear controls and audit trails.
This workflow keeps critical operations local and auditable while delivering a modern user experience.
Security deep dive
Security is the core of Ledger Wallet. The device uses a certified Secure Element to store private keys and a dedicated chip to run a small, audited operating system. Transactions must be authorized on the physical device, preventing attackers who compromise your computer or phone from moving funds without the hardware confirmation. Ledger Wallet is designed with layered defenses: hardware isolation, PIN protection, recovery phrase backup, and continuous software audits. Additionally, the application encourages safe behavior — for example, checking recipient addresses on the device and validating application signatures — so users can make informed decisions when interacting with smart contracts and decentralized services.
Best practices for safe custody
- Never share your recovery phrase with anyone — Ledger support will never ask for it.
- Buy hardware devices only from official channels or trusted retailers to avoid tampered devices.
- Keep firmware up to date and use the official Ledger Wallet download to reduce exposure to malicious software.
- Use passphrase protections or secondary accounts for additional compartmentalization of funds.
Why choose Ledger Wallet?
Ledger Wallet merges strong, hardware-based security with a clean and modern user interface. Unlike custodial apps, it empowers you with full control of your crypto. Compared with software-only wallets, Ledger Wallet gives you the extra layer of physical confirmation and tamper-resistant key storage. For everyday users, it’s a balance of safety and convenience: manage holdings, stake, and use dApps without giving control of your keys away.
Conclusion
Ledger Wallet (formerly Ledger Live) is an all-in-one crypto wallet built around the principle that self-custody should be accessible and secure. Whether you are just starting with crypto or you manage a diversified portfolio, Ledger Wallet provides the tools and security model to manage assets confidently. Remember: safety starts with your device and recovery phrase. Use Ledger Wallet to keep your private keys in your hands and your assets under your control.