Overview — What is Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is the official companion app for Ledger hardware wallets. It provides a single, secure interface to manage thousands of cryptocurrencies, buy and swap assets, stake tokens, monitor portfolio performance, and install blockchain apps on your device. Most importantly, Ledger Live never holds your private keys — all signing is done on your Ledger hardware device so secrets remain isolated.
Track balances, historical performance, allocation and price alerts in one place.
Integrated fiat on-ramps and swap partners let you buy crypto and swap tokens securely.
Stake supported assets to earn rewards while keeping keys on device.
Install blockchain apps, update firmware, and manage accounts for each chain.
Why download Ledger Live from the Official Site?
Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website or trusted app stores. Fake apps and malicious installers are a real risk in the crypto ecosystem. The official download ensures you receive the authentic, signed application and prevents supply-chain or trojan threats that could attempt to steal your recovery phrase or intercept transactions.
Download Ledger Live — Desktop & Mobile
Ledger Live is available for Windows, macOS, Linux (desktop) and iOS/Android (mobile). Choose the correct installer for your operating system and verify checksums if provided by Ledger.
Note: This page is a guide. Always validate URLs and use the official Ledger domains when downloading software.
Step-by-step Setup — Desktop
- Download Ledger Live from the official site and install the application.
- Launch Ledger Live and select Get Started.
- Choose your device model (Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, Ledger Stax) and either set up a new device or restore from a recovery phrase.
- Follow on-screen instructions and complete device initialization using the hardware device (never input recovery phrase into your computer).
- Open the Manager in Ledger Live to install blockchain-specific apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana) to your device.
- Add accounts in Ledger Live for each blockchain to start tracking balances and making transactions.
Step-by-step Setup — Mobile
Ledger Live Mobile mirrors desktop features and adds convenience for on-the-go management. For Ledger Nano X, Bluetooth pairing is supported. For other devices, use an appropriate cable or use Ledger Live desktop to sync.
- Download Ledger Live App from App Store or Google Play.
- Open the app and tap Get Started. Select your Ledger device model.
- Pair your Ledger device with the phone (Bluetooth for Nano X or cable for supported phones).
- Install apps on your device via Manager and add accounts in the mobile app.
- Confirm every transaction on the hardware device — mobile app only displays and initiates requests.
Security Best Practices
Security with Ledger is a combination of hardware protections and user habits. Follow these best practices:
- Buy Ledger hardware only from the official Ledger store or authorized resellers.
- Never share your 24-word recovery phrase. Ledger will never ask you for it online.
- Verify app and firmware updates using Ledger’s official instructions.
- Use a strong computer/mobile OS hygiene — keep system software and antivirus up to date.
- Consider using a passphrase (advanced) for an extra layer of security — but understand the risks and backup process.
Troubleshooting & Tips
Common issues are usually resolved by checking cable/BT connections, restarting Ledger Live, or updating firmware. If you encounter suspicious prompts asking for your recovery phrase, treat it as a phishing attempt and disconnect immediately.
Advanced Features
Ledger Live supports advanced use cases: multi-account management, portfolio exports, transaction history export, integration with DeFi and Web3 apps via third-party connectors, and third-party staking providers. Power users can leverage the developer docs and libraries for custom integrations.
Legal & Support
Ledger Live’s features and availability may vary by region due to regulatory constraints. For official support, firmware releases, and security bulletins, consult Ledger’s official support portal and announcements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use Ledger Live without a Ledger device?
- You can view portfolio data using read-only tools, but signing transactions and full functionality require a Ledger hardware device.
- Where should I download Ledger Live?
- From the official Ledger website or verified app stores. Avoid third-party download sites.
- Does Ledger Live store my private keys?
- No — private keys are stored on your Ledger hardware device inside a secure element. Ledger Live only acts as an interface.
- Can I stake crypto with Ledger Live?
- Yes — Ledger Live supports staking for several proof-of-stake networks. Rewards and availability vary by asset and region.
- What if I lose my Ledger device?
- If you have your recovery phrase, you can restore funds on a new compatible device. If the recovery phrase is lost, funds cannot be recovered.
- Is Ledger Live open source?
- Ledger publishes many components and libraries publicly; check Ledger’s developer portal and GitHub for details.
- How do I validate Ledger Live downloads?
- Verify SHA checksums or signed release details when offered by Ledger. Use official release notes and support pages for verification steps.
- Does Ledger Live support NFTs?
- Ledger Live supports viewing certain NFT collections and connecting with Web3 apps; the ecosystem continues to expand.
- Is using Ledger Live free?
- Ledger Live is free to download and use. Third-party buy/sell or swap services may charge fees; staking providers may take a commission.
- How often should I update Ledger Live?
- Keep Ledger Live and device firmware up to date to receive security improvements and new asset support.