Ledger Live: Download — Official Crypto Wallet App

Ledger Live connects your Ledger hardware wallet to a polished desktop or mobile interface so you can manage accounts, update firmware, install blockchain apps, and safely send and receive crypto — all while keeping private keys on the device.

What Ledger Live does for you

Ledger Live is the official application for interacting with Ledger hardware wallets (Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, and future models). It acts as a secure UI and orchestration layer: it helps you initialize devices, generate or import recovery phrases, install blockchain-specific apps, derive and display addresses, construct transactions, and broadcast them to the network. The key security principle is simple — Ledger Live never exposes private keys: signing always happens on the hardware device under your direct confirmation.

Download sources & platform support

Obtain Ledger Live only from official sources to avoid tampered installers. Supported platforms include:

  • Desktop: Windows, macOS, Linux — installers available at ledger.com/start.
  • Mobile: iOS and Android — available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
  • Compatibility: Ledger Live integrates with Ledger hardware over USB (all devices) and Bluetooth (Ledger Nano X). Some OSes may require drivers or local bridge services — Ledger provides instructions when necessary.

Always confirm the HTTPS lock and the correct domain before downloading. If checksums or signatures are provided, use them to verify the installer integrity.

Step-by-step: Install Ledger Live

  1. Visit ledger.com/start in a secure browser and pick your platform.
  2. Download the installer for desktop, or open the official store on mobile to install Ledger Live.
  3. Run the installer and follow prompts. On mobile, accept only the permissions required by the app.
  4. Launch Ledger Live and follow the onboarding flow that matches whether you have a new device or a recovery phrase to restore.
  5. When asked, connect your Ledger device via USB or Bluetooth and approve the connection on the device when prompted.

If an installer requires additional components (Bridge/drivers), follow the official guidance. Never install software from untrusted third‑party links.

Set up your device: create or restore a wallet

During onboarding, Ledger Live will guide you through either setting up a new device or restoring an existing wallet. Creating a new wallet on the device will generate a recovery phrase (usually 24 words). Record the phrase word-for-word in the order shown, using the physical recovery sheet or a metal backup. Do not take photos or store the phrase in a digital file. If restoring, enter your recovery phrase directly on the device when prompted — never on a computer.

Install blockchain apps & add accounts

Ledger devices use small on-device applications for each supported blockchain (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.). Use the Manager section in Ledger Live to install apps onto your device. After installing, add accounts from the Accounts tab — Ledger Live will derive and display public addresses and balances. Because device storage is limited, uninstall unused apps to free space and reinstall as needed.

Sending and receiving — safest practices

To receive funds, select an account and click Receive. Always verify the address displayed in Ledger Live matches the address shown on your Ledger device before sharing it. When sending funds, construct the transaction in Ledger Live, verify fees and recipient details, and then confirm the transaction on the Ledger device screen. Checking details on the device prevents host-based manipulation by malware.

Security checklist

  • Download Ledger Live only from ledger.com/start or official app stores.
  • Never disclose your recovery phrase — Ledger support will never ask for it.
  • Verify addresses and amounts directly on your Ledger device before approving transactions.
  • Keep Ledger Live and device firmware updated; updates include important security patches.
  • Use a PIN on your device and consider a passphrase for additional protection (understand the risks first).

Troubleshooting common problems

Device not detected

  • Try a different USB cable or port and avoid USB hubs when possible.
  • Ensure the device is unlocked with your PIN before connecting.
  • Restart Ledger Live and reconnect the device.
  • On macOS or Linux, ensure your user has the required permissions if drivers are needed.

App installation failures

  • Free up device space by removing unused apps and retry installing the desired app.
  • Ensure your device firmware is compatible with the app you are trying to install.

Missing balance or tokens

  • Confirm you added the correct account and chain in Ledger Live.
  • For tokens, verify that the token is supported and that the appropriate chain app is installed.

Advanced options & recommendations

Advanced users can enable a passphrase (a 25th secret word) to create hidden wallets, or use derivation paths and multiple accounts to organize funds. For large balances, consider multisignature setups or distributing funds across multiple devices to reduce single-point risk. Always document recovery processes and test them in a secure environment.

Frequently asked questions

Is Ledger Live free?

Yes. Ledger Live is free to download and use. Third-party services integrated with Ledger Live (swap or staking providers) may charge fees.

Can I use Ledger Live without a Ledger device?

Ledger Live provides some read-only information, but signing transactions and performing secure operations require a Ledger hardware device.

What if I lose my recovery phrase?

If you lose the recovery phrase and the device is lost or damaged, you cannot recover your funds. Keep multiple secure backups stored in separate physical locations.