Ledger Live Install Guide | Official Download for Windows & Mac

Managing cryptocurrencies safely begins with choosing reliable tools that protect your digital assets while providing a seamless user experience. Ledger Live—developed by Ledger, a leading name in hardware wallet security—is one such tool. It allows users to manage, track, and grow their crypto holdings through a unified desktop and mobile application. Whether you want to send or receive crypto, monitor portfolio performance, stake assets, or install new apps on your Ledger device, Ledger Live acts as the core interface.

This guide offers a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough for installing Ledger Live on Windows and macOS, ensuring that both new and experienced users can get started with confidence. It also covers best practices, troubleshooting tips, and important security guidelines to keep your assets safe.

What Is Ledger Live?

Ledger Live is the official companion software for Ledger hardware wallets such as Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X. It serves as the control center for managing your cryptocurrencies. With this app, users can:

• Install and update crypto apps on their Ledger device

• Buy, sell, and swap cryptocurrencies through integrated partners

• Stake supported assets to earn rewards

• Monitor real-time portfolio performance

• Connect to Web3 dApps via Ledger Live and Ledger’s security layer

• Securely send and receive transactions

The app is designed with security at its core and ensures your private keys remain stored in the Ledger hardware wallet, never on the computer or online.

Why Download Ledger Live from the Official Source?

Before diving into installation steps, it is important to understand why using the official download source matters. Because Ledger Live interacts with your crypto assets, using an unofficial or modified installer can expose you to significant risks, including:

• Malware or spyware installation

• Seed phrase phishing

• Theft of crypto assets

• Compromised device firmware

Downloading Ledger Live only from the official Ledger website ensures the software is authentic, up-to-date, and free from malicious alterations. Always double-check that you are on the legitimate Ledger domain before downloading the app.

How to Install Ledger Live on Windows

Follow these step-by-step instructions to install Ledger Live on any modern Windows computer (Windows 10 or Windows 11 recommended).

Step 1: Download Ledger Live for Windows

1. Open your web browser.

2. Go to the official Ledger website’s download page.

3. Select Windows as your operating system.

4. The installer file (usually named ledger-live-desktop-win.exe) will begin downloading automatically.

Before opening the file, verify that:

• The download came directly from Ledger’s official site.

• The file name and extension look correct.

• Your antivirus software has not flagged anything unusual.

Step 2: Run the Installer

Once downloaded:

1. Navigate to your Downloads folder.

2. Double-click the Ledger Live installer file.

3. If Windows prompts you with a security confirmation (User Account Control), click Yes to allow the installer to run.

The setup window will open and walk you through installation.

Step 3: Choose Installation Preferences

During the setup process:

• Select the destination folder (the default option is usually fine).

• Choose whether you want a desktop shortcut.

• Click Install to begin.

Ledger Live will copy its core files to your computer and prepare the application for first-time use.

Step 4: Launch Ledger Live

Once installation is complete:

1. Click Finish to start Ledger Live immediately.

2. Alternatively, locate Ledger Live via the Start menu or desktop shortcut.

The app will open with a welcome screen asking whether you want to set up a new device or connect an existing one.

Step 5: Initial App Setup

During the first launch:

• Review and accept Ledger’s Terms & Conditions.

• Optionally enable analytics to help improve the app (this is not required).

• Choose your preferred language and theme (Light or Dark Mode).

You can now begin using Ledger Live with your hardware wallet.

How to Install Ledger Live on macOS

If you are using a Mac, installing Ledger Live is just as simple. The app is compatible with macOS Big Sur, Monterey, Ventura, and later versions.

Step 1: Download Ledger Live for Mac

1. Open Safari or your preferred browser.

2. Navigate to the official Ledger Live download page.

3. Choose macOS from the list of available platforms.

4. The .dmg installer file will begin downloading.

Mac users should be especially cautious about verifying the source, as macOS will sometimes warn you about applications from unidentified developers if the download is not authentic.

Step 2: Open the DMG File

Once the file downloads:

1. Go to your Downloads folder.

2. Double-click the downloaded .dmg file.

3. A new Finder window will open, showing the Ledger Live application.

Step 3: Install Ledger Live on macOS

To complete installation:

1. Drag the Ledger Live app icon into your Applications folder.

2. Wait for macOS to copy the app files.

This process ensures Ledger Live is properly installed and accessible from your Applications directory.

Step 4: Launch Ledger Live

1. Open your Applications folder.

2. Locate Ledger Live.

3. Double-click to open the app.

If macOS displays a security warning (e.g., “This app was downloaded from the internet”), click Open to proceed.

Step 5: Complete Initial Setup

Just like in Windows, you must:

• Agree to Ledger’s Terms

• Select your preferred language

• Choose the app theme

• Optionally allow analytics

You are now ready to begin using Ledger Live with your Ledger hardware wallet.

Connecting Your Ledger Device for the First Time

Whether you're on Windows or macOS, connecting your Ledger device follows the same steps:

Step 1: Plug in Your Ledger Device

Use the USB cable provided with your Ledger wallet. Ensure you use a direct USB port rather than a hub for better stability.

Step 2: Unlock Your Device

Enter your PIN code on the Ledger hardware wallet. This activates the secure environment and allows Ledger Live to communicate with the device.

Step 3: Install Apps

In Ledger Live:

1. Navigate to the My Ledger section.

2. Install apps for the cryptocurrencies you plan to manage. For example:

   • Bitcoin

   • Ethereum

   • XRP

   • Solana

   • Polygon

These apps allow the device to generate and sign transactions for each corresponding blockchain.

Step 4: Add Accounts

After installing the relevant crypto apps:

1. Go to Accounts.

2. Click Add Account.

3. Select a cryptocurrency.

4. Follow the instructions to synchronize your blockchain accounts.

Now you will see your holdings displayed in Ledger Live's dashboard.

Security Tips for Using Ledger Live

Because Ledger Live interacts with your cryptocurrency holdings, following best security practices is essential.

1. Never Share Your Recovery Phrase

Ledger Live will never ask for your recovery phrase. If you encounter a screen, webpage, or email requesting it, it is a phishing attempt.

2. Keep Ledger Live Updated

Ledger frequently releases updates that improve stability, security, and compatibility. Always install updates when prompted.

3. Verify Transactions on Your Ledger Device

Before approving any transaction, always verify the:

• Address

• Amount

• Fees

Only confirm directly on the device’s screen.

4. Download Only from the Official Website

Avoid third-party download sites or “modded” versions of Ledger Live.

5. Enable Password Lock

Within Ledger Live:

1. Go to Settings

2. Enable Password Lock

This prevents unauthorized users from viewing your portfolio.

Troubleshooting Ledger Live Installation Issues

Below are solutions for some common installation challenges.

1. Installation Won’t Start (Windows)

If nothing happens when launching the installer:

• Run the file as Administrator

• Ensure Windows is updated

• Temporarily disable antivirus if it blocks the installer

2. “Ledger Live Is Damaged” on macOS

This can happen due to macOS Gatekeeper.

Fix:

1. Open System Settings > Privacy & Security

2. Scroll to the blocked app message

3. Click Open Anyway

3. Device Not Detected

If Ledger Live won’t detect your hardware wallet:

• Use a different USB cable

• Confirm the device is unlocked

• Ensure the correct crypto app is open on the device

• Update both Ledger Live and the device firmware

Features You Can Use After Installing Ledger Live

Ledger Live offers more than just basic crypto management. Once installed, users gain access to:

✔ Portfolio Tracking

View real-time value of your holdings across accounts.

✔ Buy & Sell Crypto

Purchase crypto with integrated partners such as MoonPay or Coinify (availability varies by region).

✔ Swap Assets

Instantly exchange one crypto for another within Ledger Live.

✔ Staking Support

Stake assets like Ethereum, Polkadot, Cosmos, and more to earn rewards.

✔ DeFi & Web3 Access

Ledger Live connects securely to Web3 apps via Ledger extensions and supported protocols.

Final Thoughts

Installing Ledger Live on Windows or macOS is straightforward, but downloading it from the official source and following proper setup procedures ensures you maintain complete control over your digital assets. With Ledger Live, you get a secure, intuitive, and powerful platform that makes managing cryptocurrency simple and safe. Whether you are new to crypto or a seasoned investor, this application provides the flexibility and protection you need to navigate the digital asset ecosystem confidently.