Install Ledger Live — official app for managing your crypto
Ledger Live is Ledger’s official desktop and mobile application for managing accounts, installing apps, updating firmware, and initiating transactions. It offers a unified experience across multiple assets while keeping private keys isolated inside your Ledger device. Below is a step-by-step guide to install Ledger Live and prepare for a secure login and device connection.
Download from official site
Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website. Avoid third-party sites and torrent downloads. Verify the URL and look for HTTPS to ensure you’re on the authentic domain.
Install & grant permissions
Run the installer for your OS (Windows, macOS, or Linux) and grant standard permissions. Ledger Live may request access for USB or the system network — this is necessary for communicating with your device and fetching blockchain data.
Create or restore an account
You can create a new Ledger profile or restore an existing wallet using your recovery phrase. If creating new, Ledger Live will guide you through initializing your device and recording your recovery phrase. If restoring, only use your recovery phrase on trusted hardware.
Install apps and add accounts
Ledger devices use small apps to support blockchains. Use Ledger Live to install these apps and add accounts for each asset you want to manage. The app manager handles versioning and compatibility for you.
Keep Ledger Live updated
Ledger releases updates for Live that include new features and security improvements. Enable automatic update checks and install updates from the official source to stay protected.
Login and connect your Ledger device
Ledger Live does not store your private keys — they remain on the device. Logging in to Ledger Live is a local profile step and may include optional credentials for syncing preferences across devices. The critical authentication step is the on-device confirmation when performing sensitive actions.
Connecting your device
- Plug your Ledger device into your computer via the official USB cable.
- Open Ledger Live; the app will prompt to connect to a device. Follow on-screen instructions.
- Unlock your device by entering your PIN on the device screen.
- Confirm any install or update actions on the device — important for verifying authenticity.
Security best practices when using Ledger Live
Ledger Live is built around a security model where the hardware device enforces cryptographic controls and Ledger Live acts as a management interface. Follow these practical rules to keep your funds safe.
Ledger Live will guide you to write down your recovery phrase during setup — never take a photo or store it digitally. Support will never ask for it.
The device screen is your last line of defense. Confirm addresses and amounts there before approving transactions in Ledger Live.
Keep your operating system and antivirus updated. Use a trusted machine to run Ledger Live and avoid public or shared computers for signing transactions.
Ledger Live offers optional local passcodes to protect the app profile. This is useful when other people may access your machine.
Troubleshooting common issues
If Ledger Live cannot detect your device or transactions fail, try these steps:
- Ensure the device is unlocked and its screen is active.
- Try another USB port or cable; some cables are power-only and do not support data.
- Restart Ledger Live and, if necessary, your computer.
- Check for pending firmware updates and apply them via Ledger Live.
- On macOS, ensure you’ve granted any required USB permissions in system settings.
Advanced usage & integrations
Ledger Live integrates with staking providers, third-party apps, and developer tools. For advanced users, consider these workflows:
- Use third-party wallets only if they clearly state hardware wallet compatibility and require on-device confirmations.
- For staking or DeFi actions, confirm contract interactions directly on your device and review gas/fee settings in Ledger Live.
- Developers can use WebHID/WebUSB or Ledger’s APIs; follow official docs to ensure safe integrations.
FAQ
Q: Does Ledger Live store my private keys?
A: No. Private keys remain inside your Ledger hardware device. Ledger Live manages accounts and broadcasts signed transactions but does not have access to private keys.
Q: Can I use Ledger Live on multiple machines?
A: Yes. Ledger Live profiles can be created on different machines; your device and recovery phrase are portable across installations.
Q: What if I forget my Ledger Live passcode?
A: Ledger Live passcodes protect the local profile only. If forgotten you can reinstall Ledger Live and reconnect your device; funds are recoverable via your recovery phrase.
This guide summarizes the practical steps to install, log in, and securely use Ledger Live. For step-by-step screenshots, video walkthroughs, or printable checklists, request the specific format and I’ll generate it.
Ten official links
Downloads, docs, support, and developer resources.