Ledger® Live: Desktop — manage your crypto with clarity and control
Ledger Live is the official desktop application to manage your accounts, send and receive crypto, check balances, install apps on your Ledgér device, and safely interact with the broader ecosystem. This guide walks you through downloading Ledger Live, setting up your device, securing your recovery, and using advanced features like staking, swaps, and account export.
Download & system requirements
Ledger Live is available for Windows (64-bit), macOS (Intel & Apple Silicon), and Linux (AppImage / deb / rpm). Choose the package that matches your system. Before installing, verify the download hash or use official distribution channels to avoid counterfeit packages.
Tip: Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website and keep both the app and your device firmware up to date for the latest security patches and features.
Getting started — step-by-step
This section walks you through the typical first-time setup flow. The exact screens may vary slightly between Ledger models, but the principles remain the same.
Run the installer you downloaded and follow the on-screen instructions. Grant permissions only if you trust the source. When installation completes, open Ledger Live and choose "Get started".
If you already have a Ledgér device and seed, choose "Restore device". If you have a new device, choose "Set up a new device" and follow the guided onboarding to generate your recovery seed and set a PIN.
Write down your recovery phrase exactly on the provided card or a metal backup solution. Store it offline and offline-only; never photograph or type it into a website or message. Ledger Live will help you verify the seed before allowing use.
In Ledger Live, add accounts for the coins and tokens you want to manage. Adding an account does not expose your private keys — it only allows Ledger Live to derive addresses for tracking and for preparing transactions that you will sign on the device.
When receiving funds, always verify the receiving address displayed in Ledger Live on your physical Ledgér device. Confirming the address on-device prevents address-substitution attacks from malware on your computer.
Security fundamentals — what Ledger Live does and doesn't do
Ledger Live is a management interface; it does not and cannot access your private keys. Your Ledgér hardware device generates and stores keys in a secure element. Ledger Live prepares transactions and sends them to the device for signing. The device displays the details so you can confirm the operation physically. This separation is the cornerstone of secure self-custody.
Best practices
- Buy devices only from official or authorized retailers.
- Never share your recovery phrase; Ledger support will never ask for it.
- Keep Ledger Live and firmware updated; check release notes for security changes.
- Verify download integrity (hash/signature) when possible.
What Ledger Live does not do
- It does not store your private keys on your computer.
- It does not send your recovery phrase to any server.
- It does not auto-sign transactions — physical confirmation on the device is mandatory.
Advanced features
Ledger Live includes several advanced features that experienced users and teams may rely on:
- Staking: Stake supported cryptocurrencies directly from Ledger Live while keeping your keys offline. Ledger Live guides you through validator selection and reward tracking.
- Swap partners: Access integrated swap services within Ledger Live for simple exchanges between supported assets. Partner liquidity and fees vary.
- Account export & reporting: Export transaction history for accounting or record-keeping. Ledger Live supports CSV exports and integration with portfolio tools.
- Developer & enterprise: Ledger offers APIs and bulk provisioning tools for enterprise deployments and advanced integrations for secure signing workflows.