Ledger™ Live: Download | Getting Started

Official guide to downloading Ledger Live and getting started with your Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S Plus, Nano X). Secure installation, device connection, account management, backups and best practices.

Why download Ledger Live?

Ledger Live is the official application that provides a secure, user-friendly interface for managing your cryptocurrency assets while keeping private keys on your Ledger hardware wallet. It allows you to add accounts, send and receive crypto, stake supported tokens, install blockchain apps on your device, and apply firmware updates. Downloading Ledger Live from the official source ensures you use an authentic, up-to-date build maintained by Ledger.

Supported platforms

Ledger Live is available for desktop and mobile platforms to fit different workflows:

  • Desktop: Windows, macOS, and Linux (AppImage/package)
  • Mobile: iOS and Android (official App Store / Google Play releases)

Step 1 — Download safely

  1. Open your browser and go to the official Ledger Live page: https://ledger.com/ledger-live. Always type the address or follow a trusted bookmark.
  2. Choose the correct platform (Desktop or Mobile) and click the provided download link.
  3. If checksums, signatures, or verification instructions are provided, follow them to confirm the file’s integrity before opening it.
  4. Avoid downloading Ledger Live from third-party websites, file-sharing platforms, or links in unsolicited messages.

Security reminder: Never enter your recovery phrase into Ledger Live or any website. Ledger Live will never ask for your recovery phrase during normal usage.

Step 2 — Install Ledger Live

Installation differs slightly by platform. Follow platform-specific prompts carefully:

  • Windows: Run the downloaded .exe or .msi and approve the UAC prompt. Follow the installer steps.
  • macOS: Open the .dmg, drag Ledger Live to the Applications folder, and run it. You may need to allow the app in Security & Privacy when Gatekeeper blocks the first launch.
  • Linux: Use the AppImage or native package provided and follow Ledger’s Linux instructions. On some distributions, you may need to install udev rules to allow USB access without root.
  • Mobile: Install Ledger Live from the official App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).

Step 3 — Initial launch & onboarding

Open Ledger Live after installation and follow the onboarding steps:

  1. Choose Get Started if you are new or Already have a device to restore or reconnect.
  2. Select your Ledger device model (e.g., Nano S Plus, Nano X) and follow the prompts to pair the device.
  3. Ledger Live will guide you through installing necessary drivers or granting permissions; approve them where required.
  4. Do not enter your recovery phrase into any software — recovery happens only on the device input during secure recovery flows.

Step 4 — Initialize or restore your device

If your Ledger is brand new, initialize it by creating a PIN and recording the recovery phrase as prompted on the device. If restoring, choose the restore option and carefully enter your recovery phrase on the hardware device when instructed. Ledger Live will never request the seed words directly; they are entered on the device screen only.

Step 5 — Add accounts in Ledger Live

After your device is connected and unlocked, add accounts to manage different assets:

  1. Go to the Accounts tab and click Add account.
  2. Select the blockchain (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) and allow Ledger Live to scan your device for addresses.
  3. Confirm the account address on the Ledger device display and add it to your dashboard.

Ledger Live supports multiple accounts per blockchain and shows ERC‑20 tokens and many altcoins via installed device apps.

Step 6 — Send and receive securely

To receive: Use the Receive button to get an address, then verify the address on the device screen before sharing it. This prevents address-replacement attacks.

To send: Enter recipient address and amount in Ledger Live, review fee estimates, and then confirm the full transaction details on your Ledger device. The device signs locally and Ledger Live broadcasts the signed transaction.

Step 7 — Backup & recovery (must-read)

During initialization, your Ledger device will display a recovery phrase (typically 24 words). This phrase is the single most important backup of your wallet. Practices to follow:

  • Write the recovery phrase on the supplied card or a secure medium; consider metal backups for long-term durability.
  • Store backups offline in secure, geographically separated locations where possible.
  • Never photograph, email, or otherwise store the phrase on internet-connected devices.

If you lose both the device and your recovery phrase, there is no way to recover the funds. Treat the seed as the ultimate key to your assets.

Security best practices

  • Download Ledger Live only from ledger.com.
  • Verify installer checksums or signatures if Ledger publishes them.
  • Use a strong PIN and keep the device physically secure.
  • Confirm transaction details on-device every time — do not trust only the computer screen.
  • Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated to receive security patches.
  • For high-value holdings consider multisig or advanced custody strategies.

Advanced features & integrations

Ledger Live offers more than basic send/receive. Explore these capabilities:

  • Staking: Stake supported assets directly within Ledger Live to earn rewards while keys stay on-device.
  • App management: Install blockchain-specific apps on the Ledger device using Ledger Live.
  • Third-party integrations: Swap, DeFi, and NFT services appear via vetted partners; transactions still require on-device approval.

Troubleshooting common issues

  • Device not recognized: Try another USB cable or port and ensure the device is unlocked. On Linux, ensure udev rules are installed.
  • Installer blocked: On macOS you may need to allow the app in System Preferences > Security & Privacy.
  • Bluetooth pairing problems: For Nano X, reset pairings and ensure Bluetooth permissions are granted.
  • Firmware update failures: Follow Ledger’s official recovery instructions and do not use unofficial firmware.

Privacy considerations

Ledger Live queries nodes and services to fetch balances and transaction history. If privacy is important, consider connecting to your own node (where supported) or using privacy-preserving services. While private keys remain on-device, metadata such as addresses and queried balances may be visible to external services.

FAQ

Can I use Ledger Live without a Ledger device?
Ledger Live can display some read-only information, but signing requires a connected Ledger hardware wallet.
How do I verify the installer?
Ledger may publish checksums or signatures; follow official verification steps if available. Always download from ledger.com.
What happens if I forget my PIN?
If you forget your PIN you must reset the device and restore from your recovery phrase.

Final notes

Downloading Ledger Live from the official Ledger website and following correct setup procedures ensures you get an authentic, secure application to manage your hardware wallet. Keep backups safe, always verify actions on the device screen, and use Ledger Live to take advantage of staking, app management, and vetted integrations while keeping keys offline and secure.