Ledger Live | Download and install Ledger Live
Overview
What is Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile application from Ledger to manage hardware wallets (Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, etc.). It lets you install apps on your device, manage accounts for multiple blockchains, send & receive crypto, check portfolio performance, stake compatible assets, and interact with dApps through Ledger Live or companion integrations.
Who should use this guide
Target audience
- New Ledger hardware wallet owners setting up Ledger Live for the first time.
- Users reinstalling Ledger Live after system changes.
- Anyone who wants a secure, step-by-step installation and troubleshooting manual.
Before you start
Checklist
- Make sure you have your Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or compatible model) and its recovery phrase securely stored offline.
- Use an up-to-date computer or mobile phone. Ledger Live runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and iOS.
- Only download Ledger Live from Ledger's official website (links provided below).
- Do not share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone — Ledger Support will never ask for it.
Download Ledger Live
Official download links
Use the links below to access Ledger's official pages. Each link is labelled and color-coded for quick scanning.
Install: Desktop (Windows & macOS & Linux)
Step-by-step (general)
- Download the installer for your operating system from the official page (choose Windows, macOS or Linux).
- Open the downloaded file and follow on-screen instructions. On Windows, run the .exe; on macOS, open the .dmg and drag the Ledger Live icon to Applications; on Linux follow package instructions or use the AppImage.
- Allow necessary permissions if prompted (such as USB access) so Ledger Live can communicate with your Ledger device.
Windows specific notes
Windows may ask for administrative permissions during the install. If you're using an enterprise-managed device, check with your IT team before installing.
macOS specific notes
For macOS 10.15+ you may need to allow the app in System Preferences > Security & Privacy if Gatekeeper blocks the first launch.
Install: Mobile (Android & iOS)
Mobile app installation
- Open the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) and search for "Ledger Live" or use the official link from Ledger's site.
- Install the Ledger Live app and open it. Grant permissions for Bluetooth or USB OTG if you will connect a Nano X (Bluetooth) or a device via an OTG cable.
Bluetooth pairing (Nano X)
To use Ledger Nano X over Bluetooth, enable Bluetooth on both your phone and the device, open the Ledger Live app and follow pairing instructions. Confirm the pairing code on the hardware device screen.
First run: Set up Ledger Live
Create or restore?
When you open Ledger Live for the first time you'll be asked whether you are setting up a new Ledger device or restoring an existing wallet using your recovery phrase. If you already initialized your device and have your recovery phrase, choose "Restore device". If you received your Ledger brand-new, follow the "Initialize as new device" flow on the device itself and then connect to Ledger Live.
Install manager & add accounts
- Open the Manager in Ledger Live and connect your device with a USB cable (or Bluetooth for Nano X).
- Install the apps for the blockchains you want to manage (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana).
- After installing the apps, go to Accounts > Add account and follow instructions to add each blockchain account to Ledger Live.
Troubleshooting & common issues
Ledger Live won't detect my device
- Try a different USB cable (use the supplied cable) and different USB port.
- For Windows: ensure drivers are installed. Reboot if necessary.
- For macOS: check System Preferences > Security & Privacy and allow the app if blocked.
- Try the web-based manager or another computer to isolate the issue.
App installation errors
Ensure you have sufficient space on your device to install the blockchain apps. Uninstall unused apps to free space and retry.
Bluetooth pairing problems
Turn Bluetooth off and on again for both devices, then restart Ledger Live and the device. Confirm firmware is up to date.
Security best practices
Key rules
- Never reveal your 24-word recovery phrase. Ledger Support will never ask for it.
- Only download Ledger Live from the official site linked above.
- Verify app signatures and release notes if you are using non-standard install methods.
- Keep your device firmware up to date using Ledger Live's Manager.
What to do if you suspect compromise
If you believe your recovery phrase was exposed, move assets to a new wallet immediately. Generate a new recovery phrase on a newly initialized device and transfer funds from the old wallet to the new one.
Advanced: Command line & Linux tips
Using AppImage (Linux)
Download the AppImage from Ledger's site, mark it executable (chmod +x LedgerLive.AppImage
) and run it (./LedgerLive.AppImage
).
Using Flatpak / Snap
Ledger Live may be available in community repositories. Follow the official instructions and verify signatures where possible.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can I reinstall Ledger Live without losing funds?
Yes. Your funds are controlled by your recovery phrase stored offline on your hardware device — reinstalling the app does not affect on-chain assets. Ensure you have your recovery phrase before wiping or changing devices.
Is Ledger Live open-source?
Parts of Ledger's software and libraries are open-source. Check Ledger's developer and GitHub pages for details and repositories.
Conclusion & next steps
Ledger Live is the secure, official way to manage Ledger hardware wallets. Follow the steps above to download, install, and set up Ledger Live safely. Use the official links provided, keep firmware and software current, and always protect your recovery phrase.
If you need guided help, visit Ledger's Support or Academy pages linked above or reach out to Ledger's official contact channels.