Ledger Live Desktop — Download & install
The safest way to get Ledger Live Desktop is through the official Ledger gateway. Visit Ledger.com/start and choose the correct installer for your operating system. Below are direct step-by-step instructions covering Windows, macOS, and Linux so you can complete the Ledger Live Desktop download and setup confidently.
Windows
Download the Windows installer from Ledger.com/start. Run the .exe and follow on-screen prompts. If Windows shows a SmartScreen warning, double-check the download origin (always prefer the official domain) before proceeding. After installation, launch Ledger Live Desktop and connect your Ledger device to begin onboarding.
macOS
On macOS, download the .dmg via Ledger.com/start, mount it and move Ledger Live Desktop to Applications. If macOS blocks the app, allow it via System Preferences → Security & Privacy. Confirm the app matches the official installer by following verification instructions on the Ledger start page.
Linux
Linux users can download an AppImage or package as listed on Ledger.com/start. Ensure udev rules are configured so Ledger Live Desktop can access USB devices and verify the integrity of downloads when possible.
Key features of Ledger Live Desktop
Secure transaction signing
Ledger Live Desktop prepares transactions and sends them to your Ledger device for signature. Private keys never leave the hardware, and every signature requires on-device confirmation.
Firmware updates & verification
Update firmware directly through Ledger Live Desktop; always confirm updates on the device screen. Ledger Live Desktop checks firmware integrity as part of the update process.
Account management & integrations
Manage multiple accounts across supported chains, install apps on your Ledger device, and use integrations for staking and swaps while keeping keys offline.
How to verify your Ledger Live Desktop download
Verification is a critical step after any Ledger Live Desktop download. Ledger.com/start provides guidance about checksums and signature verification where available. The basic verification workflow is: download the installer from the official page, obtain the checksum or signature provided by Ledger, and verify it locally with tools like sha256sum or PGP verification. This step ensures the binary has not been altered in transit and that you are running the authentic Ledger Live Desktop client.
Beyond verifying the installer, always confirm on-device messages during onboarding and transaction signing. Ledger Live Desktop displays transaction details, but the device screen is the authoritative source: verify addresses and amounts on the Ledger itself before approving. Finally, keep Ledger Live Desktop updated to receive security patches and improvements; the application will prompt you when updates are available, but confirm all changes on-device before accepting.
FAQ — Ledger Live Desktop
Is Ledger Live Desktop free?
Yes. Ledger Live Desktop is free to download and use. Integrated services may involve fees, but the client itself is provided at no cost.
Where should I download Ledger Live Desktop?
Always use the official Ledger gateway: Ledger.com/start. Avoid third-party mirrors and ads that mimic official links.
What if my device isn't detected?
Try a different USB cable/port, restart Ledger Live Desktop, check for Bridge/driver requirements on your platform, and consult the troubleshooting docs linked from Ledger.com/start.