Ledger® Live — Download | Getting started™ Ledger®
Ledger® Live: Download & Getting started™ Ledger®
A friendly, step-by-step guide to downloading Ledger Live, installing it, and setting up your Ledger hardware wallet securely.
What is Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile application that lets you manage cryptocurrency on your Ledger hardware wallet. You can install apps, add accounts, send and receive crypto, check portfolio balances, and apply firmware updates — all while keeping private keys safe on your device.
Download — Where to get Ledger Live
Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website. Choose the right package for your operating system:
Windows (.exe) — 64-bit recommended
macOS (.dmg) — Intel & Apple Silicon builds available
Linux (.AppImage / .deb)
Mobile — iOS (App Store) & Android (Google Play)
Tip: Always verify you are on the official site and check the app signatures if you want extra assurance.
Download the installer for your OS from the official site.
Open the downloaded file and follow the installer prompts.
When installed, launch Ledger Live and allow any required permissions.
Connect your Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, etc.) via USB or Bluetooth for mobile.
If you are updating from an older version, Ledger Live will prompt to migrate settings — follow the on‑screen instructions.
Setting up Ledger Live with a new Ledger device
Create or restore a wallet: Choose Initialize as new device to create a new PIN and recovery phrase. Alternatively, choose Restore device if you have an existing recovery phrase.
Set a PIN: Choose a PIN you can remember but others cannot guess. Never store your PIN together with your recovery phrase.
Write down your recovery phrase: Ledger will display a 24-word recovery phrase (sometimes 12 words). Write it down on the provided card and keep it offline and secure.
Install apps: Ledger Live's Manager lets you install blockchain apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.) to your device.
Add accounts: After installing an app, add the corresponding account in Ledger Live to view balances and transact.
Never share your recovery phrase. Ledger staff will never ask for it.
Using Ledger Live — everyday tasks
Send/Receive: Use the Send and Receive buttons to move funds. Always verify addresses on your Ledger device before confirming.
Firmware updates: Ledger occasionally releases firmware updates. Apply them through Ledger Live to keep your device secure.
Portfolio & Manager: Track holdings and manage installed apps from the Manager tab.
Buy/Sell/Swap: Integrated third-party providers may appear in Ledger Live for swaps, buys, and staking; review fees and terms before using.
Troubleshooting — common issues
Ledger Live won't detect my device
Try a different USB cable or port (some cables are power-only).
On macOS, allow permissions for USB access; on Windows, try running Ledger Live as Administrator.
Ensure the device is unlocked (enter your PIN) and the correct app (e.g., Bitcoin) is open when adding an account.
Transaction failing or stuck
Check network fees and blockchain status. Try increasing gas or fee when necessary.
Restart Ledger Live and your device, then try again.
FAQ
Q: Is Ledger Live open-source? A: Many Ledger components and libraries are open-source; Ledger Live has parts of its code available for review. Check Ledger's official repositories for details.Q: Can I use Ledger Live without a Ledger device? A: Ledger Live requires a Ledger hardware device to manage private keys and sign transactions securely.Q: What if I lose my device? A: Use your recovery phrase on a new Ledger or compatible wallet. Anyone with the recovery phrase can access funds, so keep it safe and offline.
Security best practices
Only download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website.
Never enter your recovery phrase into a computer or phone; Ledger will never ask for it in-app.
Keep firmware up to date and verify app sources when using third-party integrations.
Consider a hardware backup (a second device) or a secure safe for your recovery sheet.