A friendly, step-by-step guide to download Ledger Live, set up your Ledger hardware wallet, and confidently manage your crypto.
What is Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile companion app for Ledger hardware wallets. It lets you securely install apps on your device, add cryptocurrency accounts, receive and send funds, and check portfolio balances — all while keeping your private keys isolated on your Ledger device.
Before you begin — quick checklist
Have a compatible Ledger device (Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X recommended).
Use a trusted computer or mobile device and a secure internet connection.
Never share your 24‑word recovery phrase with anyone. Ledger will never ask for it.
Back up your recovery phrase on the physical card that came with your Ledger device and store it in a safe place.
Download Ledger Live
Official source
Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website. Visit the Ledger Live download page and choose the correct version for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android).
Tip: Verify the URL is ledger.com and avoid third-party app stores or links shared in forums.
Install the app
Desktop: Download the installer and follow the on-screen instructions. Allow the app to run if prompted by your OS security settings.
Mobile: Install Ledger Live from the App Store or Google Play — again, only official stores or the Ledger site link.
Set up your Ledger device
Initialize or restore
When you power on the device, you'll choose between creating a new wallet (generating a new 24‑word recovery phrase) or restoring from an existing recovery phrase. If you're new, choose "Set up as new device" and write down your recovery phrase exactly as shown.
PIN code
Create a PIN code on the device — this protects access if the device is lost or stolen. You will enter this PIN every time you connect the Ledger to Ledger Live.
Install apps
Open Ledger Live, go to the Manager, and connect your Ledger device. Install the cryptocurrency apps you need (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Each app occupies space on the device; Ledger Live manages installations for you.
Adding accounts & managing assets
After app installation, use Ledger Live to add accounts. Click Add account, pick the currency, and follow the prompts while confirming actions on your Ledger device. Ledger Live will sync balances and transaction history while your private keys remain on the device.
Receive: select the account, click Receive, verify the address shown on your computer matches the device display.
Send: build a transaction in Ledger Live and confirm details on your Ledger device before signing.
Security best practices
Never type your 24‑word recovery phrase into a computer or phone. Ledger Live uses the phrase only during recovery directly on the device.
Enable a PIN and use a strong passphrase (optional advanced protection) if you understand the risks and recovery implications.
Keep firmware up to date — Ledger Live will notify you of firmware updates which are applied via the device and require manual confirmation.
Common troubleshooting
Ledger Live not detecting device
Try a different USB cable or port, ensure the device is unlocked, and check the Manager is open in Ledger Live.
Restart Ledger Live or your computer and try again.
Forgotten PIN or lost device
If you forget your PIN, you can reset the device but must restore from your 24‑word recovery phrase. Without the recovery phrase, funds are irretrievable.