Ledger® Live Desktop is the secure wallet app designed to work with Ledger hardware wallets. It combines powerful security, a clear interface, and full support for hundreds of cryptocurrencies so you can manage assets safely on Windows, macOS, and Linux. This guide helps you download Ledger Live, install it, pair your Ledger device, manage accounts, send/receive assets, update firmware, and follow best practices for keeping crypto safe.
Why choose Ledger Live Desktop?
Ledger Live Desktop is engineered for security-first crypto management. When paired with a Ledger hardware wallet, your private keys stay offline and transactions must be confirmed on the device. Ledger Live Desktop provides portfolio tracking, firmware updates, secure transaction signing, multi-account support, and built-in guidance — all in one secure wallet app.
Step-by-step: Download & Install Ledger Live Desktop
Follow these steps to start using the Ledger Live Desktop secure wallet app. Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger site and verify the file signature if available.
- Visit the official download page — go to the official Ledger website and choose Ledger Live for Windows, macOS, or Linux.
- Download the installer — select the right installer for your OS. Prefer the desktop installer for better reliability.
- Verify authenticity — where possible verify digital signatures or checksums to confirm the file is genuine.
- Run the installer — open the installer and follow on-screen instructions. Grant permissions only to verified apps.
- Install Trezor Bridge / drivers if prompted — on some systems you may need a small helper (or drivers) for secure USB communication.
- Open Ledger Live and follow setup — select “Initialize device” or “Connect your device” depending on whether you have a new Ledger hardware wallet or restoring one.
- Pair your Ledger device — connect via USB (or Bluetooth on supported devices) and confirm pairing on the hardware device screen.
- Create or restore accounts — add accounts for each cryptocurrency you want to manage in Ledger Live Desktop.
- Send & receive — use address verification and always confirm transactions on-device.
- Backup & store recovery phrase safely — write down the recovery phrase on paper; never store it digitally or share it.
Quick install command (Linux / advanced users)
# Example: Debian/Ubuntu (replace with official files) wget https://example-ledger-download/ledger-live-linux.run chmod +x ledger-live-linux.run ./ledger-live-linux.run
Managing accounts & security best practices
After installing Ledger Live Desktop and pairing your Ledger hardware wallet, follow these practices to keep funds safe:
- Keep recovery phrase offline: write the 24-word seed on paper (or a steel backup) and store it securely.
- Confirm every transaction: always verify the recipient address and amount on the device screen before approving.
- Enable device passphrase (optional): for extra privacy and accounts separation you can use a passphrase — but understand the trade-offs before enabling.
- Use official Ledger Live: avoid forks or third-party apps that ask for your seed; prefer official integrations listed by Ledger.
- Update firmware & app: apply firmware updates when Ledger Live offers them to keep security up to date.
Advanced features and integrations
Ledger Live Desktop supports additional integrations such as staking, exchange partners, and third-party dApp connectors. Explore Ledger Live’s built-in marketplace and integrations to stake coins, swap tokens, or connect to DeFi apps while retaining hardware-based signing security.
What to do if something goes wrong
If Ledger Live fails to detect the device or an update fails: unplug and replug the device, try another cable/USB port, reinstall Ledger Live, or consult official support. Never enter your recovery phrase into Ledger Live or any online form.