What is Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is the official application that connects to Ledger hardware wallets (Ledger Nano X, Nano S Plus, Stax) to let you manage blockchain accounts, send and receive crypto, stake supported assets, view NFTs, and interact with selected dApps. Ledger Live acts as the user interface while private keys remain securely stored on your Ledger device.
This page explains how to safely download Ledger Live, install and set it up, and follow practical security steps so you retain custody of your keys while using modern crypto features.
Where to download Ledger Live
Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger start page. Type the URL directly into your browser or use a previously verified bookmark — avoid clicking links from emails, social media posts, or search ads, which can be used in phishing campaigns.
- Open your browser and go to:
https://ledger.com/start
. - Choose the Ledger Live version for your platform: Desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux) or Mobile (iOS, Android).
- Download the installer for desktop or install via the App Store / Google Play for mobile.
- Verify the URL and HTTPS padlock before running the installer.
Installing Ledger Live (Desktop)
Follow these steps to install Ledger Live on your computer safely:
- Run the downloaded installer for your OS and follow the on-screen prompts.
- Grant permissions only if you trust the source; Ledger Live may request permission for USB access or device communication.
- Open Ledger Live after installation and accept initial terms. Optionally choose telemetry preferences according to your privacy choices.
If you encounter warnings from your OS or antivirus, ensure the installer came from the official site before proceeding.
Installing Ledger Live (Mobile)
Ledger Live Mobile provides convenient on-the-go management and Bluetooth pairing for compatible devices. To install:
- Open the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).
- Search for Ledger Live and install the official app published by Ledger.
- Open the app and follow pairing or setup instructions. For Bluetooth pairing (e.g., Nano X), approve the pair on your device screen.
Only install the official app from the app stores and verify the publisher name to avoid counterfeit apps.
Initial Setup — What to do after download
After installing Ledger Live, you'll initialize or restore your Ledger device. The app guides you through either creating a new wallet or restoring from an existing recovery phrase.
- Launch Ledger Live and choose Get started.
- Pick your device model and follow on-screen steps to set up as a new device or recover an existing wallet.
- Create a secure PIN on the device — PIN entry is always performed on-device (not on your computer or phone).
- Write down your recovery phrase (24 words by default) exactly and store it offline — this is the only way to restore your wallet if the device is lost.
- Confirm the recovery phrase when prompted; do not skip verification.
Daily Use — Send, Receive, and Manage
Ledger Live provides the common wallet operations you need. The security model ensures approvals happen on-device.
Receive
- Open Ledger Live and select the account for the coin you expect to receive.
- Click Receive. Ledger Live will show a receiving address.
- Verify the same address on your Ledger device screen before sharing it — address verification on-device prevents address-replacement attacks.
Send
- Click Send and enter the recipient address and amount.
- Ledger Live prepares an unsigned transaction and sends it to your device for review.
- Verify all details on the Ledger device screen (address, amount, fee). Approve to sign the transaction — keys never leave the device.
For larger transfers, always send a small test amount first to confirm addresses and flow.
Key Features of Ledger Live
Secure On-Device Signing
All sensitive operations require on-device confirmation; private keys are stored in the secure element.
Portfolio & Activity
Get a consolidated view of balances, transaction history, and portfolio performance across accounts.
Staking & Earning
Stake supported assets and earn rewards through Ledger Live’s integrated providers while keeping custody of keys.
Security Best Practices
- Always use official sources: Download Ledger Live only from the official start page or verified app stores.
- Protect your recovery phrase: Store it on durable, offline media (paper or metal seed backups) and consider geographic separation for redundancy.
- Never share secrets: Do not disclose your recovery seed, PIN, or passphrase to anyone.
- Verify on-device: Confirm addresses and transaction details on your Ledger device screen before approving.
- Keep software updated: Apply Ledger Live and firmware updates from official prompts to get security improvements.
- Be cautious with integrations: Only connect to reputable third-party services. Review permissions and transactions carefully.
Troubleshooting — Common Issues
Installer warnings
If your OS or antivirus flags the installer, confirm you downloaded from the official site. Do not proceed with files from unknown sources.
Device not recognized
Try a different data-capable USB cable, use a direct port (avoid hubs), restart Ledger Live and the device, and check OS permissions for USB access.
Firmware update failures
Reconnect the device, restart Ledger Live, and follow the app prompts. If updates repeatedly fail, consult Ledger support for official recovery guidance.
Forgotten PIN or lost seed
If you forget your PIN you must reset the device and restore from the seed. If the recovery seed is lost, funds are likely unrecoverable — this underscores the importance of secure backups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ledger Live free?
Can I use Ledger Live without a hardware device?
Where can I get help?
Does Ledger Live support my coin?
Ready to download Ledger Live?
Visit the official start page to download Ledger Live for desktop or mobile, follow the safe installation steps above, and initialize or restore your Ledger device. Protect your recovery seed, verify transactions on-device, and keep software up to date for the best security experience.
Download Ledger Live — ledger.com/start
Always verify official sources and never trust unsolicited instructions asking for your seed or private keys.