Ledger Live Download — Official Wallet App for Ledger Hardware
Ledger Live is the official companion application for Ledger hardware wallets, designed to give you secure, intuitive control over your cryptocurrency. Whether you’re setting up your device for the first time, managing multiple accounts, or sending and receiving crypto, downloading Ledger Live is the first essential step.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Ledger Live download — from choosing the right version for your device to installation, setup, and safety best practices.
What Is Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is a desktop and mobile application that connects with your Ledger hardware wallet — such as the Ledger Nano X, Nano S Plus, or Ledger Stax — and allows you to:
- Manage multiple cryptocurrency accounts
- View balances and portfolio performance
- Send and receive digital assets
- Install blockchain apps on your Ledger device
- Update device firmware
- Use advanced features like staking or swap integrations
Importantly, Ledger Live itself never stores your private keys — they stay securely on the hardware device.
Why You Need to Download Ledger Live
You need Ledger Live to interact with your Ledger hardware wallet safely. The hardware device stores your keys offline, but Ledger Live provides the user interface to:
- Initialize a new wallet
- Restore an existing wallet
- Add cryptocurrency accounts
- Verify and execute transactions
- Manage apps and updates
Without Ledger Live, your Ledger device can’t display account information or send transactions.
Supported Platforms
Ledger Live is available on multiple operating systems, allowing you to manage your crypto no matter your setup:
Desktop
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
Mobile
- iOS
- Android
Both versions offer secure access to your accounts, but the desktop version is often preferred for full functionality, including firmware updates and advanced management tools.
Step‑by‑Step: How to Download Ledger Live
1. Choose the Right Version
Before downloading, decide where you want to run Ledger Live:
- Desktop — Recommended for full control, especially for first‑time setup, firmware updates, and advanced features.
- Mobile — Great for everyday balance checks and on‑the‑go transactions, especially with Bluetooth‑enabled devices like Nano X.
2. Start the Download
Locate the official Ledger Live download page. It offers installers for all supported platforms so you can choose the correct one for your device.
3. Install Ledger Live
After downloading:
On Desktop
- Open the installer
- Follow the prompts to complete installation
- Launch the app once finished
On Mobile
- Install from your device’s official app store
- Open Ledger Live after installation
4. Initial Setup
When you open Ledger Live for the first time, you’ll see options to:
- Set up a new device
- Restore an existing wallet
- Connect an already initialized Ledger hardware wallet
Follow the on‑screen prompts, and be prepared to connect your Ledger device to complete setup.
Connecting Your Ledger Device
After installing Ledger Live:
- Plug in your Ledger hardware wallet via USB (or Bluetooth for supported models)
- Unlock it by entering your PIN on the device
- Ledger Live will detect the device and guide you through setup or login
This hardware‑based login ensures your private keys remain offline and safe from online attacks.
Security Tips for Safe Download
Downloading Ledger Live safely is essential for protecting your crypto:
- Always use the official download portal — avoid third‑party sites.
- Do not download copies or installers from unofficial links shared in email or social media.
- Never enter your recovery phrase on a computer or website. Recovery phrases should only be used on the Ledger device itself during the official restore process.
- Verify that you’re downloading the correct version for your operating system.
These precautions help ensure you don’t fall victim to scams or fake apps designed to steal your keys.
Complete Installation Walkthrough
Desktop Installation (Windows / macOS / Linux)
- Run the downloaded installer
- Accept the terms and choose install location
- Complete the setup wizard
- Launch Ledger Live
- Connect your Ledger device when prompted
Mobile Installation (iOS / Android)
- Install the app from your device’s official app store
- Open Ledger Live
- Connect via Bluetooth (if supported) or USB
- Follow on‑screen instructions
Once connected, Ledger Live will walk you through either creating a new wallet or restoring a wallet using your recovery phrase (if applicable).
After Download: First‑Time Setup
After you’ve downloaded and installed Ledger Live:
- Initialize your Ledger device (if new)
- Set a PIN to protect access
- Record your recovery phrase securely offline
- Add accounts for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage
- Confirm operations directly on your Ledger hardware — Ledger Live never does this for you
This secure setup flow makes sure you retain full control of your keys and funds.
Adding Cryptocurrency Accounts
Once Ledger Live is installed and your device is connected:
- Open Ledger Live
- Go to Accounts
- Click Add account
- Choose the cryptocurrency
- Confirm on the Ledger device
Ledger Live supports a wide range of coins and tokens, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and many popular altcoins.
Sending and Receiving Crypto
Receiving
- Select the account
- Click “Receive”
- Verify the address on your device
- Share the address with the sender
Sending
- Select “Send”
- Enter recipient address and amount
- Confirm details on your Ledger device
Ledger Live displays your portfolio values and history, but all signing happens on the hardware device for total security.
Firmware Updates
Ledger Live also handles firmware updates for Ledger devices:
- When an update is available, Ledger Live will notify you
- Follow in‑app instructions to update safely
- Confirm updates on your hardware wallet
Firmware updates improve security and can add new features — keeping your device current helps protect your assets.
Troubleshooting Download & Installation Issues
If Ledger Live doesn’t install or run correctly:
- Re‑download the installer and try again
- Make sure your operating system is supported
- Restart your computer or phone
- Ensure your firewall or security settings aren’t blocking the app
- Try the mobile version if the desktop won’t install
Ledger Live includes helpful prompts and diagnostics to assist you when problems arise.
Mobile vs Desktop: Which Should You Download?
Desktop Ledger Live
- Full feature set
- Recommended for first setup and firmware updates
- Best for advanced users
Mobile Ledger Live
- Ideal for checking balances and quick transactions
- Convenient Bluetooth support
- Great for on‑the‑go use
Both versions sync with your Ledger hardware; your keys always stay on the device.
Best Practices After Download
- Confirm all transactions on your Ledger device
- Do not share your recovery phrase
- Back up your recovery phrase securely offline
- Keep Ledger Live and firmware up to date
- Beware of fake apps, ads, or websites claiming to offer Ledger downloads
Conclusion
Downloading Ledger Live is the first essential step in managing your cryptocurrency with a Ledger hardware wallet. Whether you use the desktop or mobile version, Ledger Live gives you the tools to securely add accounts, monitor balances, send and receive funds, and keep your device updated — all while keeping your private keys offline.
Start by downloading Ledger Live for your platform, complete the secure setup process, and enjoy full control of your crypto with industry‑leading hardware security.