Ledger® Live
Download, install, and log in to Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the official companion app for Ledger hardware wallets. It installs blockchain apps on your device, manages accounts, presents transaction details for on-device verification, and keeps device firmware up to date. This guide covers everything from download and login to device pairing, account management, and best security practices.
Quick start — 5 steps
Get Ledger Live from the official Ledger website. Choose the desktop or mobile version depending on your workflow. Always verify the URL and prefer HTTPS connections.
Run the installer (desktop) or install the app (mobile). On first run, accept the terms and choose whether to use the desktop or web or mobile workflow for future access.
Ledger Live uses a local profile (not an account in Ledger). Create a profile name and optional password to protect local access. The app does not hold recovery seeds — your hardware device remains the authority.
Connect your Ledger hardware via USB (or Bluetooth for supported models). Follow on-screen prompts to allow Ledger Live to detect and pair the device. Confirm the connection on-device when prompted.
Install blockchain apps using Ledger Live, add accounts, and start monitoring balances. To send funds, construct transactions in Ledger Live and confirm details on your device.
Downloading & installing Ledger Live
Go to the official Ledger website and select the Ledger Live download for your platform. For desktop, packages are provided for Windows, macOS, and Linux; for mobile, use the App Store or Google Play. Verify you are on the official domain and prefer the desktop client for workflows requiring more control, such as firmware updates and app installs.
Installer tips
- Check file checksums when available to verify the download integrity.
- On Windows, allow permissions when prompted — drivers may be required for USB access.
- Keep Ledger Live updated to use the latest features and security fixes.
Logging in and creating a profile
When you open Ledger Live for the first time, create a local profile name. The profile stores settings and metadata about accounts and devices. You may optionally set a password to protect the local profile. Remember: this password secures the local app only — your seed and device remain the root of trust.
Profile recovery
If you reinstall Ledger Live, you can import a previously exported profile (encrypted file) or recreate it by pairing your Ledger device again. Never share profile exports unless encrypted and transferred through secure channels.
Pairing your Ledger device
Connect your Ledger hardware to your computer or phone. Ledger Live will detect the device and prompt you to confirm the connection on-device. If the device is new, follow the device initialization steps in Ledger Live — generate a recovery phrase on-device and record it securely. If it’s an existing wallet, restore using your seed when prompted.
Bluetooth & mobile notes
Some Ledger models support Bluetooth for mobile convenience. Use Bluetooth sparingly and disable it when not needed. Prefer wired connections for firmware updates and high-value operations.
Installing apps & adding accounts
Ledger Live manages blockchain-specific apps that live on-device. Install only the apps you need to conserve device space. After installing an app, add the corresponding account in Ledger Live to view balances and manage transactions. Each account derives addresses from your device seed — the device will always show the address on-screen for verification.
Sending & receiving safely
To receive funds, generate an address in Ledger Live and verify it on-device. To send, compose the transaction in Ledger Live and verify amount and destination on the device before confirming — this protects against host-based tampering.
Security best practices
- Download Ledger Live only from the official Ledger site or app stores.
- Never enter your recovery phrase into any computer or phone — seeds are generated and recorded on-device.
- Use a strong device PIN and consider passphrase protection for hidden wallets.
- Keep firmware and Ledger Live up to date using official channels.
- Verify transaction details on the device screen before approving.
Troubleshooting
Device not detected
Try a different USB cable or port, use the desktop client, and ensure drivers are installed. For mobile, check Bluetooth permissions and pairing settings.
Profile import issues
Ensure you are using the correct encrypted profile file and password. If you cannot import, pair the device directly and recreate the profile from paired device data.
FAQ
Does Ledger Live store my seed?
No. Ledger Live never stores your recovery seed. The seed and private keys remain on the hardware device at all times.
Can I use multiple devices with one profile?
Yes. Pair multiple Ledger devices to the same profile to manage accounts across devices. Each device still protects its own private keys.
What if I forget my profile password?
Profile passwords protect local app data. If lost, you can re-pair your Ledger device or import an encrypted profile backup if available. The recovery seed remains the ultimate backup.