Ledger Live Desktop | Download & Setup

Get started with the official Ledger Live Desktop app — securely download, install, and set up so you can manage, stake, swap, and protect your cryptocurrency assets with confidence.

Download Ledger Live Officially

What Is Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application from Ledger that allows you to manage your crypto portfolio in a secure, non‑custodial environment. When used alongside a Ledger hardware wallet (e.g. Nano S Plus, Nano X, etc.), your private keys remain offline and transactions must be confirmed on your device. It supports major functions such as sending & receiving crypto, staking, swapping, and installing blockchain apps. It works on Windows, macOS, and Linux. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Why You Need To Download From Official Source

• Authenticity & Safety: Only download from Ledger’s official site to avoid phishing and counterfeit software. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
• Latest Version & Updates: Official downloads ensure you receive up‑to‑date firmware patches, security fixes, and feature improvements. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
• Verified Installers: Ledger provides checksums / signatures so you can verify the file integrity. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
• Device Security: All critical operations (such as confirming transactions) are done on your hardware wallet, not via software alone. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
• No Phishing Requests: Ledger will never ask you for your 24‑word recovery phrase in the app or via email. If prompted, that’s a scam. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

System Requirements

Before installing, make sure your desktop environment meets the minimum requirements:

• Windows: Windows 10 (64‑bit) or later. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
• macOS: Version 10.15 or later (or 10.14+ depending on your hardware). :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
• Linux: 64‑bit distributions; AppImage or packaged version; correct udev rules for USB devices. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
• Hardware wallet: A supported Ledger device (Nano S, Nano S Plus, Nano X, etc.), USB cable, and any necessary adapters. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
• Disk Space & RAM: Enough free storage (installer size + wallets / apps) and at least 4GB RAM recommended. (Often ~200‑300MB free disk for software, more for data) :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
• Internet Connection: Needed for initial setup, updates, and syncing blockchain data. Ensure connection is stable. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}

Step‑by‑Step Setup Guide

1. Go to the Official Download Page: Visit ledger.com/ledger-live/download or via Ledger.com/start to ensure the software is authentic. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
2. Select Your Platform: Choose your OS — Windows, macOS, or Linux. Download the correct installer (e.g. .exe, .dmg, .AppImage) for your system. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
3. Install the Software: Run the installer:
   • On Windows, double‑click the .exe → allow installer permissions.
   • On macOS, mount the .dmg, drag app to Applications folder.
   • On Linux, make the AppImage executable and run it. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
4. Launch Ledger Live: Open the app. You’ll be asked to connect your Ledger hardware wallet via USB. If applicable, allow any system permissions needed (USB access). :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
5. Set Up or Restore Device: If you're a new user, initialize a new device (create PIN, write recovery phrase). If returning, restore using your 24‑word recovery phrase. Always write it down securely and offline. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
6. Perform Genuine Check: Ledger Live will check if your device is genuine. Confirm authenticity on the Ledger hardware. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
7. Install Cryptocurrency Apps: In the Manager tab, install apps for the coins/tokens you want to use (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Use minimal apps to conserve storage on some devices. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
8. Add Accounts: Once apps are installed, add accounts for the assets you want to manage. You can track balances, send/receive, stake, and swap. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
9. Verify Transactions On‑Device: Always confirm send / swap / stake transactions on your Ledger device itself—not just in the desktop software. This is crucial for security. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
10. Keep Everything Updated: Periodically check for firmware updates for your Ledger device and updates for Ledger Live app. Accept updates only from official sources. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}

Main Features & What You Can Do

• Send & receive crypto securely, with address confirmation on your hardware wallet. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}
• Real‑time portfolio tracking: see balances, market prices, portfolio breakdowns. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}
• Swap between supported cryptocurrencies inside the app. :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}
• Staking support for assets like Ethereum, Polkadot, etc., allowing you to earn rewards. :contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}
• Manage firmware and apps for your Ledger device via the “Manager” tab. :contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26}
• Support for thousands of coins and tokens. :contentReference[oaicite:27]{index=27}
• NFT support (viewing and sending/receiving) for supported chains. :contentReference[oaicite:28]{index=28}

Security Best Practices

• Never share your recovery phrase with anyone; Ledger or support will never ask for it. :contentReference[oaicite:29]{index=29}
• Download only from Ledger’s official website or trusted app stores (Ledger.com/ledger‑live, Ledger.com/start). :contentReference[oaicite:30]{index=30}
• Verify file integrity when possible (checksums, signatures). :contentReference[oaicite:31]{index=31}
• Use strong PIN on device; store recovery phrase offline in physical form. :contentReference[oaicite:32]{index=32}
• Avoid downloading software from unverified third‑party links or emails. Always search manually or bookmark the official site. :contentReference[oaicite:33]{index=33}
• Keep your OS and drivers updated so that USB connectivity and device detection work properly. :contentReference[oaicite:34]{index=34}

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• If Ledger Live doesn’t detect your device: check USB cable, try different ports, ensure device is unlocked. :contentReference[oaicite:35]{index=35}
• If installer fails or triggers warnings: verify that you downloaded from official site and that your OS meets minimum requirements. :contentReference[oaicite:36]{index=36}
• If you see fake UI or asked for recovery phrase: close app, delete any files, verify source, and contact Ledger Support. :contentReference[oaicite:37]{index=37}
• If performance is slow or large account sync is delayed: ensure you have stable internet connection, close other heavy apps, check for updates.