Decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms like Aave, Compound, and Uniswap let you lend, borrow, and trade crypto—but using them securely requires a hardware wallet. Ledger Live integrates with top DeFi protocols, allowing you to interact safely while keeping full control of your private keys.
This guide covers:
✅ How to connect Ledger Live to Aave, Compound & other DeFi apps
✅ Step-by-step setup with WalletConnect & MetaMask
✅ Security best practices for DeFi transactions
Please download the last update of Ledger Live Application:
1. Ledger Live for Windows 10/11
2. Ledger Live for MAC
3. Ledger Live for Android
🔐 Why Use Ledger Live for DeFi?
- Non-custodial access – Your keys never leave the device.
- Secure transaction signing – Approve swaps/lending directly on your Ledger.
- Avoid phishing risks – Ledger Live verifies legitimate DeFi platforms.
📲 How to Connect Ledger Live to DeFi Platforms
Method 1: Direct Connection via Ledger Live (Aave, Compound, Lido)
Some platforms are natively integrated:
- Open Ledger Live → Go to “Discover” tab.
- Select a DeFi app (e.g., Aave).
- Connect your Ledger device (unlock with PIN).
- Approve the connection on your Ledger’s screen.
- Start lending, borrowing, or staking!
Supported platforms: Aave, Compound, Lido, Paraswap.
Method 2: Use WalletConnect (Uniswap, Curve, etc.)
For non-integrated platforms:
- Open the DeFi app (e.g., app.uniswap.org).
- Click “Connect Wallet” → Choose WalletConnect.
- In Ledger Live, go to “Discover” > “WalletConnect”.
- Scan the QR code or copy-paste the connection link.
- Confirm the connection on your Ledger device.
Works with: Uniswap, SushiSwap, Curve, Yearn Finance.
Method 3: Connect via MetaMask (Advanced Users)
- Install MetaMask (browser extension/mobile).
- Choose “Connect Hardware Wallet” → Ledger.
- Select accounts to link.
- Always verify transactions on your Ledger screen before signing.
Note: MetaMask adds flexibility but requires extra caution against phishing.
⚠️ Critical Security Tips
✔ Never share your 24-word recovery phrase – Legitimate DeFi apps will never ask for it.
✔ Always verify transactions on your Ledger’s display before approving.
✔ Bookmark DeFi sites – Avoid fake links (e.g., use app.aave.com, not aave[.]xyz).
✔ Revoke unused contracts – Use Etherscan’s Token Approvals to manage permissions.
💡 Which DeFi Platforms Work Best with Ledger?
| Platform | Use Case | Connection Method |
| Aave | Lending/borrowing | Direct in Ledger Live |
| Compound | Earn interest | Direct in Ledger Live |
| Uniswap | Token swaps | WalletConnect |
| Lido | Stake ETH | Direct in Ledger Live |
| Curve | Stablecoin swaps | WalletConnect |
🚀 Getting Started: Aave Example
- In Ledger Live, select “Discover” > “Aave”.
- Deposit USDC as collateral (requires Ledger confirmation).
- Borrow DAI against it (or just earn interest on deposits).
- Repay loans anytime to unlock collateral.
APYs vary; check Aave’s dashboard for real-time rates.
❓ Troubleshooting
- “Connection failed” → Update Ledger Live/firmware.
- “Transaction stuck” → Increase gas fees in settings.
- “No balance shown” → Ensure you’re on the correct network (Ethereum, Polygon, etc.).
Conclusion
Ledger Live + DeFi = Ultimate security + earning potential. Whether you’re lending on Aave, swapping on Uniswap, or staking with Lido, your assets stay protected by your hardware wallet.
Ready to dive in?
- Update your Ledger device.
- Open Ledger Live’s Discover tab.
- Start earning—safely!
For help, visit Ledger’s DeFi Support. 🔒