Ledger Live Download: Complete Guide

Introduction to Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official companion app for Ledger hardware wallets, including Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus, and Nano X. It acts as the interface between your Ledger device and the blockchain, enabling users to securely manage, send, receive, and stake cryptocurrencies. It’s available across desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux) and mobile platforms (Android and iOS).

With Ledger Live, users can manage over 5,000 coins and tokens, track portfolio performance, install apps, and access DeFi and staking features—all within a secure environment that works seamlessly with Ledger hardware wallets.

Why Use Ledger Live?

Ledger Live is the only official software developed by Ledger for interacting with its hardware wallets. Some of its standout features include:

  • Secure transaction signing
  • Real-time crypto portfolio tracking
  • Multiple account management
  • Staking & DeFi integrations
  • Firmware and app updates
  • Built-in buy, sell, and swap features

It provides a user-friendly and secure environment to interact with your digital assets directly from your Ledger hardware device.

System Requirements for Ledger Live

For Desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux):

  • Windows 10 (64-bit) or later
  • macOS 10.14 (Mojave) or later
  • Ubuntu 20.04 (64-bit) or later
  • 64-bit processor
  • At least 2 GB of RAM
  • USB port (for Ledger Nano S / Nano S Plus) or Bluetooth (for Ledger Nano X)

For Mobile (Android & iOS):

  • iOS 14+ (Ledger Nano X only via Bluetooth)
  • Android 8.1+ (Ledger Nano X via Bluetooth or OTG cable for Nano S/Nano S Plus)
  • Bluetooth 4.0+ support for Nano X

How to Download Ledger Live

Step-by-Step Instructions for Desktop:

1. Go to the Official Website

Always download Ledger Live from the official website:
🔗 https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live

Warning: Never download Ledger Live from third-party websites or unofficial app stores to avoid malware or phishing attacks.

2. Choose Your Platform

On the Ledger Live page, you’ll see download options for:

  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux (.AppImage)

Click the appropriate button based on your operating system.

3. Install the App

Once downloaded:

  • Windows: Run the .exe installer and follow on-screen instructions.
  • macOS: Open the .dmg file and drag Ledger Live to the Applications folder.
  • Linux: Make the .AppImage file executable (chmod +x) and run it.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Mobile:

1. Open Your App Store

  • iOS: Open the App Store
  • Android: Open Google Play Store

2. Search for “Ledger Live”

Search for the app by name. Look for the app published by Ledger with the official blue and white “L” logo.

3. Install the App

Tap Download or Install, and let the app install on your device.

Tip: Ensure your phone meets compatibility requirements before pairing your hardware wallet.

Initial Setup After Download

After installing Ledger Live, you’ll need to go through the initial setup:

1. Launch the App

Open Ledger Live on your desktop or mobile device.

2. Choose Your Path

You’ll be prompted with options like:

  • Set up a new device
  • Restore from recovery phrase
  • Use an existing device

Choose the appropriate option based on your situation.

3. Connect Your Hardware Wallet

  • Nano S / Nano S Plus: Use the USB cable to connect to your computer or mobile (via OTG adapter)
  • Nano X: Use either USB or Bluetooth (for mobile)

4. Set a Password Lock (Optional but Recommended)

Add a Ledger Live app password to prevent unauthorized access.

5. Update Firmware and Install Apps

If required, update your device firmware and install apps like:

  • Bitcoin
  • Ethereum
  • Solana
  • USDT, and many more

This is managed through the Manager tab in Ledger Live.

6. Add Crypto Accounts

Under Accounts, click “Add Account” and select the desired crypto (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). Follow prompts to link your wallet and sync account details.

Using Ledger Live After Download

Once everything is set up, here’s what you can do within Ledger Live:

Portfolio Overview

Shows your real-time crypto holdings and their market value in your preferred fiat currency (e.g., USD, INR, EUR).

Send/Receive Crypto

  • Send: Select the asset → Enter recipient address → Confirm on your Ledger device.
  • Receive: Generate a new address → Verify on Ledger → Share the address.

Buy/Sell/SWAP

Built-in integrations with partners (e.g., MoonPay, Wyre, Coinify) let you:

  • Buy crypto with fiat (credit card, bank transfer)
  • Sell crypto for fiat (select currencies)
  • Swap between cryptocurrencies

Staking

You can stake assets like Ethereum, Tezos, Solana, Polkadot directly through Ledger Live and earn rewards.

DeFi and DApps (via WalletConnect)

Ledger Live mobile supports WalletConnect, allowing secure interaction with DeFi protocols like Uniswap, Aave, Compound, etc., using your Ledger device as the signer.

Security Tips for Download and Use

  1. Always download from the official Ledger site: Avoid fake Ledger Live clones.
  2. Enable automatic updates: Keep your app and firmware up-to-date for bug fixes and security patches.
  3. Use a strong password for Ledger Live: To protect against local access.
  4. Never share your 24-word recovery phrase: No Ledger employee will ever ask for it.
  5. Verify every transaction on your device screen: It ensures the transaction is not tampered with by malware.
  6. Enable Ledger’s Genuine Check: Ensures your device hasn’t been tampered with.

Troubleshooting Ledger Live Download Issues

Download Failed or App Won’t Install

  • Ensure your OS meets system requirements.
  • Disable antivirus temporarily if it’s blocking the download.
  • Restart your PC and try again.

Ledger Device Not Recognized

  • Try a different USB cable or port.
  • Reboot both your device and computer.
  • Make sure the Ledger is unlocked and on the correct app (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
  • Update Ledger Live and firmware.

Ledger Live Crashing or Freezing

  • Clear cache from Settings → Help → Clear cache.
  • Reinstall the app with the latest version.
  • On mobile, ensure you’re not running low on RAM/storage.

Ledger Live Desktop vs Mobile: Key Differences

FeatureLedger Live DesktopLedger Live MobileDevice supportAll Ledger devicesOnly Nano X (via Bluetooth) or OTGBuy/sell crypto✅✅Swap assets✅✅Staking✅✅WalletConnect support❌✅Best use-caseFull portfolio & managementOn-the-go transactions


Both platforms are highly secure, but the desktop version offers a wider interface, while mobile adds convenience and DeFi connectivity.

How to Keep Ledger Live Updated

Ledger regularly updates the Live app to add new coins, improve performance, and fix bugs.

To Update:

  • Desktop:
    Open Ledger Live → Go to Settings → About → Click Check for updates
    OR
    Download the latest version from Ledger’s site
  • Mobile:
    Go to App Store (iOS) or Play Store (Android) → Search “Ledger Live” → Tap Update if available.

FAQs About Ledger Live Download

Q1: Is Ledger Live free to download?

Yes, Ledger Live is 100% free. If any site asks for payment, it is likely a scam.

Q2: Can I use Ledger Live without a Ledger hardware wallet?

You can view the interface, but for full functionality (transactions, staking, etc.), a Ledger device is required.

Q3: Is Ledger Live open-source?

Parts of Ledger Live are open-source and available on Ledger’s GitHub.

Q4: Can I use Ledger Live on multiple devices?

Yes. Just download and install Ledger Live on each device and connect your Ledger wallet.

Q5: Does Ledger Live support NFTs?

Yes, you can view and manage Ethereum and Polygon NFTs in the Discover or Accounts section.

Conclusion

Downloading and setting up Ledger Live is the first critical step to securely managing your digital assets using a Ledger hardware wallet. The app serves as your control center—offering secure access to a range of features including sending and receiving crypto, staking, portfolio management, and interacting with decentralized apps.