Ledger Live Desktop — Download & Install

Safe, step-by-step instructions for Windows, macOS, and Linux — plus verification and security tips.

Overview

Ledger Live is the official desktop app for managing Ledger hardware wallets and your crypto assets. This guide covers how to download the official installer, verify its integrity, install Ledger Live, and perform the first run securely.

System requirements

  • Windows: 64-bit Windows 10 or later
  • macOS: macOS 10.15 (Catalina) or later
  • Linux: Ubuntu 20.04 (64-bit) or compatible modern 64-bit distribution
  • Internet connection for updates and market data; USB port for Ledger devices

Step 1 — Download only from the official site

Go to the official Ledger download page (https://ledger.com/ledger-live or https://ledger.com/ledger-live/download) and choose the installer matching your operating system. Do not download Ledger Live from search results, email links, or third-party sites — attackers often distribute fake installers that can steal seeds or credentials.

Step 2 — Verify signatures (recommended)

Ledger publishes signature files and verification instructions for installers. After downloading, check the digital signature provided on the official site (or compare checksums) to ensure the file hasn't been tampered with. On macOS and Windows, the installer should present a valid signature; for advanced users, compare SHA256 checksums or verify GPG signatures per Ledger's instructions.

Step 3 — Install Ledger Live

  1. Run the downloaded installer (DMG on macOS, EXE on Windows, AppImage or DEB on Linux where provided).
  2. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete installation.
  3. On first run, allow the app to update itself if prompted (official updates provide security fixes and improvements).

Step 4 — Connect your Ledger device

Connect your Ledger hardware wallet via USB (or Bluetooth for supported models) and follow the app’s onboarding flow: choose whether to set up a new device or recover an existing wallet, set a PIN on the device, and confirm device authenticity when prompted.

Security checklist

  • Always download from ledger.com — verify URL manually.
  • Never enter your recovery seed into any app or website.
  • Verify installer signatures or checksums when possible.
  • Keep your operating system and antivirus up to date.

Troubleshooting

  • Installer blocked: macOS may block unsigned apps — use System Preferences > Security & Privacy to allow a verified Ledger installer.
  • Device not found: try a different USB cable, port, or reboot the machine; ensure Ledger Live is allowed network access.
  • Fake app concerns: if you encounter unexpected prompts asking for your recovery phrase — close the app and verify your installer source; legitimate Ledger workflows never ask for your seed.

Updating Ledger Live

Ledger Live can notify you of updates via an in-app banner. For the safest path, download major updates from the official site and verify signatures. Keeping Ledger Live up to date reduces exposure to known vulnerabilities.

Additional resources

  • Official download page: ledger.com/ledger-live
  • Signature verification: ledger.com/ledger-live/lld-signatures
  • Support & troubleshooting: support.ledger.com