What is Ledger Live?

Ledger Live is a desktop and mobile application that connects to your Ledger hardware wallet (such as Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X). It provides a secure, user-friendly interface to manage cryptocurrencies, check real-time balances, perform transactions, and install blockchain apps onto your device. Ledger Live never accesses your recovery phrase — that information stays on the hardware device — which helps keep your crypto secure.

Before you download — Quick checklist

• Have a Ledger hardware wallet (Ledger Nano series) ready.
• Write down and keep your recovery phrase safe — Ledger Live does not store this for you.
• Use the official Ledger website or app store links to download Ledger Live.
• Make sure your computer or mobile device meets the system requirements below.

System requirements

How to download Ledger Live (step-by-step)

1. Desktop — Windows / macOS / Linux

1. Open your browser and go to the official Ledger website. Only download Ledger Live from the official source to avoid malicious copies.
2. Choose the version that matches your operating system: Windows (installer or portable), macOS (dmg), or Linux (AppImage or package).
3. Download the installer file and verify the download if desired (some advanced users check signatures or hashes).
4. Run the installer and follow on-screen instructions. On macOS, drag the app into the Applications folder. On Windows, accept prompts to install the app.
5. Open Ledger Live and follow the first-time setup wizard to connect your Ledger device.

2. Mobile — iOS / Android

1. Open the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
2. Search for "Ledger Live" and ensure the app is published by the official Ledger developer.
3. Install the app and grant any necessary permissions (Bluetooth for Ledger Nano X).
4. Open Ledger Live, connect your Ledger device via USB (with an OTG adapter on Android) or Bluetooth (Nano X), and follow the setup steps.

Security reminder: Always verify you downloaded the official Ledger Live app. Do not download Ledger Live from third-party sites, and never share your recovery phrase with anyone — Ledger support will never ask for your full recovery phrase.

First-time setup inside Ledger Live

1. Create or restore a wallet: Choose whether to set up a new device or restore an existing wallet using your recovery phrase. If you're setting up a brand-new Ledger device, follow the on-device instructions to create a PIN and generate a recovery phrase.
2. Install apps on your Ledger device: Ledger Live lets you install cryptocurrency-specific apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) onto your device. Installing an app on the device enables account management for that asset in Ledger Live.
3. Add accounts: Inside Ledger Live, click "Add account", pick the blockchain (for example: Bitcoin), open the corresponding app on your Ledger device, and the account will sync.
4. Update firmware: Ledger Live may prompt you to update the device firmware. Firmware updates improve security and features — follow instructions carefully and keep your recovery phrase safe before updating.

Key features of Ledger Live

Troubleshooting common download & install issues

Installer won't open on Windows or macOS

• Windows: Right-click the installer and choose "Run as administrator". Ensure you have sufficient disk space and that antivirus/quarantine didn't block the installer.
• macOS: If the OS blocks the app, open System Preferences → Security & Privacy → General and allow the app to run. Avoid changing security settings for untrusted apps.

Ledger Live can't detect my device

• Try a different USB cable or USB port. Use a cable that supports data (some cables are charge-only).
• On mobile, use a compatible OTG adapter for a wired connection or enable Bluetooth for Nano X.
• Close other apps that might access the device and restart Ledger Live and your computer.

Firmware update failed

If a firmware update fails, remain calm — do not share your recovery phrase. Retry the update in Ledger Live, and if problems persist, consult official Ledger support for guided recovery steps.

Security best practices

• Buy hardware wallets only from official sources or authorized resellers. Avoid second-hand devices.
• Keep your recovery phrase offline, written on the provided recovery sheet or a secure metal backup. Do not store it digitally.
• Always confirm transaction details on your Ledger device screen before approving. The device is the ultimate source of truth for what you're signing.
• Enable a strong PIN on your Ledger device and do not use easy or obvious codes.
• Update Ledger Live and device firmware when official updates are available, but prepare and verify recovery options before any firmware operation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Ledger Live free?

Yes — Ledger Live is free to download and use. Network fees still apply when sending transactions, and integrated services (swaps, staking) may have fees charged by partners.

Can Ledger Live hold my recovery phrase?

No. Ledger Live never stores your recovery phrase. Your recovery phrase is generated and managed on the Ledger device itself. Ledger Live interacts with the device but does not expose the recovery phrase.

Do I need Ledger Live to use my Ledger hardware wallet?

While Ledger Live is the official and most feature-rich interface, advanced users may use third-party wallet interfaces that support Ledger devices (for specific blockchains). Always verify compatibility and trustworthiness of third-party software.

Quick tips — getting the most out of Ledger Live

• Set up a watch-only portfolio on a second device if you want to monitor balances without exposing a hardware wallet.
• Use the "Manager" inside Ledger Live to keep device apps tidy — uninstall rarely-used apps to free space on the device (reinstall later as needed).
• Check transaction details on the device screen each time before confirming to avoid phishing or malicious UI tricks.

Ready to download? Use the official Ledger website or your device's app store to get the latest Ledger Live release and follow the setup steps above to start managing your crypto securely.