A clear, colorful guide to downloading Ledger Live and setting up your Ledger hardware wallet safely.
What is Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile app from Ledger that lets you manage cryptocurrencies on your Ledger hardware wallet. It acts as the control center for accounts, transactions, app management, and device settings while keeping your private keys offline inside the device.
Why use Ledger Live?
Manage multiple cryptocurrencies from one interface.
Install and update apps on your Ledger device securely.
Send and receive crypto with transaction verification on-device.
Access portfolio overview, staking, and swap services (where supported).
System requirements
Desktop: Windows 10+, macOS 10.14+, or Linux (64-bit).
Mobile: iOS 13+ or Android 7+ (Bluetooth required for Ledger Nano X on mobile).
Hardware: USB port for Ledger Nano S / Nano S Plus; Bluetooth for Nano X with mobile.
Download Ledger Live
Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website. Avoid third-party downloads to reduce the risk of tampered installers.
1
Visit the official site — go to the official Ledger download page to get the latest installer for your platform.
2
Choose your platform — select Windows, macOS, or Linux, or download the mobile app via App Store / Google Play.
3
Verify the installer — when available, verify checksums or signatures provided by Ledger and ensure the URL starts with https://.
4
Install — run the installer on desktop or install via your phone's app store.
Set up Ledger Live & your device
Once Ledger Live is installed, follow these steps to set up your device securely.
1
Open Ledger Live and follow the on-screen welcome flow. Choose Get started and pick your device model (e.g., Nano S Plus, Nano X).
2
Create a new wallet on the device or choose Restore if you already have a recovery phrase. If creating new, set a secure PIN on the device.
3
Write down the recovery phrase (the 24-word seed). This is the single most important backup — write it on paper, never save it digitally, and never share it.
4
Add accounts in Ledger Live — after device initialization, use Ledger Live to add cryptocurrency accounts (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) and install the required apps on your Ledger device.
5
Verify transactions on-device — when sending crypto, always confirm all details (amount, address, fees) on the hardware device screen before approving.
Common tasks
Receive funds
In Ledger Live, click Receive, choose the account, connect and unlock your device, and verify the address shown on the device matches the app. Use that address to receive crypto.
Send funds
Click Send, enter the recipient address and amount, then verify details on your device before approving. Ledger Live will show fee options where supported.
Install / remove apps
Use the Manager in Ledger Live to install blockchain apps on your device. Each crypto typically needs a dedicated app (e.g., Bitcoin app for BTC accounts).
Security best practices
Always buy Ledger devices from official channels.
Never share your 24-word recovery phrase — Ledger staff will never ask for it.
Keep firmware and Ledger Live up to date to receive security patches.
Use passphrase (optional) only if you understand the trade-offs — it creates an additional hidden account that can be lost if the passphrase is forgotten.
Store your recovery phrase in a secure, fireproof location or using a metal backup plate.
FAQ
Is Ledger Live free?
Yes — Ledger Live is free to download and use. Some third-party services integrated inside Ledger Live (like swap or buy providers) may charge fees.
Can I recover my assets if I lose my Ledger device?
Yes — your assets are recoverable using your 24-word recovery phrase with another compatible hardware wallet or supported recovery tool.
Should I enable Bluetooth?
Bluetooth is needed for Ledger Nano X mobile connectivity. If you don't use mobile Bluetooth, keep it disabled for reduced attack surface.