Ledger® Live Download™ — Ledger Live Crypto Wallet App

Official download guide for Ledger Live — the desktop and mobile app that pairs with your Ledger hardware wallet to securely manage your cryptocurrency. This article explains where to download Ledger Live, how to verify and install it safely, platform-specific notes, and best practices for secure use.

What is Ledger Live?

Ledger Live is the official application from Ledger that acts as a user-friendly interface for managing cryptocurrency while keeping private keys on a Ledger hardware device (e.g., Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X). The app supports account management, sending and receiving crypto, staking (where available), app management for your device, and integrations with trusted partners for swaps and purchases.

Where to Download Ledger Live

Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website or your device's official app store. Official sources include:

  • Desktop (Windows / macOS / Linux): the Ledger official download page (ledger.com/ledger-live).
  • Mobile (iOS / Android): Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

Security reminder: Avoid downloading Ledger Live through third-party links, attachments, or search results that look suspicious. Phishing sites and fake installers are a common attack vector.

Download Options & File Types

Depending on your platform, Ledger provides different installers:

  • Windows: Signed .exe installer (64-bit).
  • macOS: Signed .dmg package; newer macOS may require Gatekeeper confirmation.
  • Linux: AppImage or tarball with executable binary (check Ledger's download page for distributions supported).
  • iOS / Android: Official native apps in their respective stores.

Prefer the signed installers provided on the official page — OS-level signing provides an additional layer of authenticity verification.

Verifying the Download

To reduce the risk of using a tampered installer, verify the file when possible. Ledger typically publishes checksums and may publish verification details for releases. General verification steps:

  1. On the download page, look for provided checksums (SHA256 or SHA512) or PGP signatures if available.
  2. After download, compute the checksum locally using your operating system's tools and compare it with the value shown on the official page.
  3. On macOS and Windows, rely on the OS code-signing popups as a sanity check — they should indicate the publisher as Ledger.

Important: If the checksum or publisher information doesn't match, delete the file and re-download from the official site. Report suspicious files to Ledger support.

Installation — Desktop

Windows

  1. Run the downloaded .exe file.
  2. If Windows Defender or SmartScreen prompts appear, verify the publisher shows Ledger and then allow the install.
  3. Follow the installer steps and launch Ledger Live after installation.

macOS

  1. Open the downloaded .dmg and drag Ledger Live into the Applications folder.
  2. On first launch, macOS may warn about unidentified developers — confirm that the app is signed by Ledger before proceeding.
  3. Move the installer to the Trash after a successful install.

Linux

  1. Download the AppImage or archive for your distribution.
  2. Make the AppImage executable with chmod +x and run it, or follow distribution-specific packaging instructions.

Installation — Mobile

Download Ledger Live from the official Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Open the app, and follow the on-screen setup flow. For mobile Bluetooth connectivity with Ledger Nano X, enable Bluetooth on your phone and follow pairing steps in the app.

On mobile, avoid installing apps from unknown app stores or sideloading APKs on Android unless you are an advanced user and understand the risks.

Initial Setup After Install

  1. Open Ledger Live and choose whether to set up a new Ledger device or restore an existing one.
  2. When setting up a new device, follow the device prompts to create a PIN and write down your 24-word recovery phrase on the physical recovery sheet included with your Ledger device.
  3. When restoring, enter the 24-word recovery phrase only on the Ledger hardware device when prompted — never type it into Ledger Live or your computer.
  4. After device setup, add accounts in Ledger Live for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage.

Never share your 24-word recovery phrase. Ledger support will never ask for it. Store it offline in a secure place and consider multiple physical backups stored separately.

Keep Ledger Live & Device Firmware Updated

Ledger regularly releases updates for Ledger Live and firmware updates for Ledger devices. Updates often include security improvements and support for new assets. To update:

  • Open Ledger Live → Settings → About (or check for updates) and follow the prompts.
  • For firmware updates, use the Manager section in Ledger Live — updates require device confirmation and should not be interrupted.

Ensure you have a stable internet connection and, for wireless devices (e.g., Nano X), sufficient battery before updating firmware.

Safety Checklist — Before You Download

  • Confirm you are on the official Ledger domain before downloading.
  • Avoid installers received via email, messages, or social networks unless verified by Ledger's official channels.
  • Check OS signing information and published checksums when available.
  • Keep backups of your recovery phrase stored securely offline — do not photograph or store it digitally.

Common Troubleshooting

  • Installer fails to run: Re-download the file and check system compatibility.
  • Device not recognized: Try a different USB cable/port, ensure the device is unlocked, and that Ledger Live has permission to access USB devices.
  • App crashes or won't open: Restart your computer, reinstall the latest Ledger Live, and check for OS updates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Ledger Live free to download?

Yes — Ledger Live is free to download and use. Third-party services available inside the app (buy/sell/swap) may charge fees.

Can I use Ledger Live without a Ledger device?

No — Ledger Live requires a Ledger hardware wallet to sign transactions and manage private keys securely.

What if I downloaded Ledger Live from the wrong source?

If you suspect you downloaded a tampered or unofficial version, delete it immediately, run a malware scan, and download Ledger Live only from the official site. If you entered sensitive information (e.g., recovery phrase) into the system, consider the wallet compromised and take steps to move funds using a new device and a fresh recovery phrase.

Final Notes

Downloading Ledger Live from the official source and following verification steps helps protect you from impostor sites and malicious installers. Combine Ledger Live with a Ledger hardware wallet and follow basic security practices (secure PIN, offline recovery phrase storage, OS security) to keep your crypto safe.

If you need step-by-step support beyond this guide, visit the official Ledger support center or the Ledger community help pages for detailed articles and tutorials.