What is Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile application that acts as the management interface for Ledger hardware wallets. It lets you add accounts, send and receive crypto, install or remove apps on your Ledger device, monitor your portfolio, and access supported services such as staking or swaps — while your private keys remain secured on the hardware device.
Why download Ledger Live from the official site?
Only download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website. Counterfeit or tampered installers have been used in targeted attacks to trick users into revealing recovery phrases. Downloading from the official source and verifying the binary signature/hash reduces the risk of installing malware.
Quick safety checklist: verify you’re on ledger.com, check the download signature (if you use hashes), and never enter your 24-word recovery phrase into any app or website.
Supported platforms & minimum requirements
Ledger Live provides installers for Windows, macOS, and Linux, plus mobile apps for iOS and Android. Typical desktop requirements include a modern 64-bit OS (Windows 10+, macOS 10.14+, Linux distributions supported), at least 4GB RAM and minimal disk space for the app. Note: some older or ARM-based systems may not be supported — check the official system requirement page for exact details.
Step-by-step: Download & install Ledger Live
- Navigate to the official page: open your browser and go to the Ledger Live download page on the official Ledger website.
- Select your platform: choose the correct installer for Windows/macOS/Linux (or mobile store for iOS/Android).
- Verify the file (optional but recommended): compare the file’s hash/signature to the values published by Ledger if you want extra assurance.
- Run the installer: follow the platform-specific prompts to install the app. On macOS, drag the app to Applications; on Windows, run the .exe and accept the installer dialog.
- First run: open Ledger Live and follow the onboarding flow. If you already have a Ledger device, select the option to connect and manage it; if you’re new, follow hardware initialization steps on the device itself.
Connecting your Ledger device
When prompted, connect your Ledger hardware wallet by USB (or via Bluetooth for compatible devices where supported). Unlock the device with your PIN and open the appropriate app (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) on the device before Ledger Live attempts to add or scan accounts. Always verify addresses and transaction details on the device screen before approving.
Keeping Ledger Live and device firmware updated
Ledger periodically releases new Ledger Live versions and firmware updates for devices. These updates can include security fixes, new coin support, and UX improvements. Apply updates only while connected to your device and carefully follow on-screen instructions; never interrupt a firmware update once started.
Security best practices
- Always download Ledger Live from ledger.com.
- Never share your 24-word recovery phrase. Ledger support will never ask for it.
- Verify installer hashes/signatures if you want additional protection against tampered binaries.
- Use a strong PIN and consider hardware-backed backups (metal backups) for your recovery phrase.
- Avoid installing Ledger Live on public or untrusted machines. Use a personal, updated computer.
Troubleshooting common issues
If Ledger Live does not detect your device, try a different USB cable or port, ensure the device is unlocked, and that you opened the matching app on the device. Restarting the app and computer often resolves connectivity glitches. For app-specific or firmware errors, consult Ledger’s support articles before attempting risky fixes.
Disclaimer
This page is an informational guide to help you download and use Ledger Live for secure hardware wallet management. It does not constitute financial, legal, or security advice. Always consult official Ledger documentation and support channels for the most up-to-date instructions and safety information. You are solely responsible for safeguarding your recovery phrase and device.