Ultimate Guide: How to Download and Install Ledger Wallet™ (Formerly Ledger Live) Safely in 2025

Managing cryptocurrencies securely has become more important than ever, and hardware wallets remain one of the most trusted ways to protect digital assets from online threats. Ledger Wallet™—previously known as Ledger Live—is Ledger’s official software companion to manage, send, receive, and stake crypto using Ledger hardware devices such as the Nano S Plus, Nano X, and Ledger Stax.

If you’re new to Ledger or looking for a safe, step-by-step guide to download and install the software, this comprehensive tutorial will walk you through every stage. From understanding what Ledger Wallet™ is, to checking authenticity, installing it on desktop or mobile, and setting up your accounts securely—this guide covers it all.

What Is Ledger Wallet™ (Formerly Ledger Live)?

Ledger Wallet™ is the official application created by Ledger, designed to interface with Ledger’s hardware wallets. It serves as a secure management console for your cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and Web3 activities. With Ledger Wallet™, users can:

Manage over 5,500+ supported crypto assets
Send and receive tokens securely
Install and update hardware wallet apps
Buy, sell, and swap crypto via integrated partners
Stake assets like ETH, DOT, ATOM, and more
Track portfolio performance in real time
Connect to Web3 applications using Ledger’s secure ecosystem

Because the software is developed by Ledger, it incorporates strict security standards that protect private keys—meaning your keys never leave your hardware device.

Why You Should Only Download Ledger Wallet™ from the Official Source

Cybercriminals frequently create fake Ledger download pages and malicious clones of the application to steal users’ seed phrases and passwords. For this reason:

**Always download Ledger Wallet™ ONLY from Ledger's official website:

👉 https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live**

Never trust links shared on social media, email, ads, or unofficial forums.

To verify you’re on the correct website:

Check that the URL begins with https://www.ledger.com
Confirm the SSL certificate is valid
Ensure your browser does not show warning alerts
Avoid downloading from third-party app stores (desktop)

Taking these precautions helps ensure you install the authentic Ledger Wallet™ software.

System Requirements for Ledger Wallet™ (2025)

Ledger Wallet™ supports most major operating systems. Before downloading, confirm your system meets these requirements:

Desktop

Windows: 10 and above
macOS: 12+ (Monterey or later)
Linux: Ubuntu 20.04+ (64-bit only)

Mobile

iOS: 15 or later (iPhone / iPad)
Android: 10+ with Bluetooth for Ledger Nano X or Stax pairing

Hardware Wallet Compatibility

Ledger Nano S Plus
Ledger Nano X
Ledger Stax

Older devices may require firmware updates.

How to Download Ledger Wallet™ on Desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux)

Follow these steps carefully to download the official Ledger Wallet™ application on your computer.

Step 1: Visit the Official Ledger Website

Open your browser and go to:
👉 https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live

This page will automatically display the correct version for your operating system.

Step 2: Choose Your Operating System

Select the download button for:

Windows
macOS
Linux

Each version is digitally signed by Ledger to ensure authenticity.

Step 3: Verify the Installer File

Before opening the downloaded file, verify it:

Windows: The file should end with .exe
macOS: The file should end with .dmg
Linux: A .AppImage or similar format

Right-click the file → select Properties (or Get Info on macOS) → ensure the publisher is Ledger.

Step 4: Install Ledger Wallet™

On Windows

Double-click the .exe installer
Approve the security prompt
Follow on-screen installation instructions

On macOS

Open the .dmg file
Drag Ledger Live into the Applications folder
Open the app (you may need to allow it in System Settings → Privacy & Security)

On Linux

Make the AppImage executable
Run it from the terminal or GUI

Step 5: Launch Ledger Wallet™

Once installed, open the application. You will be greeted by Ledger’s welcome screen guiding you through the initial setup process.

How to Install Ledger Wallet™ on Mobile (iOS & Android)

Installing Ledger Wallet™ on mobile is convenient, especially for Bluetooth-enabled hardware wallets.

Step 1: Open Your Official App Store

iPhone → Apple App Store
Android → Google Play Store

Never download APKs or apps from unknown sources.

Step 2: Search for “Ledger Live” or “Ledger Wallet™”

The official app will be listed under:

Publisher: Ledger SAS

Check the logo, reviews, and number of downloads to ensure authenticity.

Step 3: Install the Application

Tap Install or Get, and wait for the app to download.

Step 4: Open the App and Connect Your Device

Ledger Nano X / Stax → Connect via Bluetooth
Ledger Nano S Plus → Requires USB-C connection (not available on iPhone)

Mobile users can manage assets, stake, swap, and explore Web3 just like on desktop.

Setting Up Ledger Wallet™ After Installation

Once Ledger Wallet™ is installed, follow these steps to set up your crypto management dashboard securely.

Step 1: Choose Your Setup Option

You will be asked whether you want to:

Set up a new Ledger device
Restore from a recovery phrase
Connect an existing Ledger wallet

If restoring from a phrase, enter it ONLY into the hardware device, never the app.

Step 2: Install Firmware Updates

Ledger Wallet™ will check your device’s firmware and prompt updates if necessary.
Keeping firmware current ensures full security and compatibility.

Step 3: Install Crypto Apps on Your Hardware Device

For each blockchain (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana), you must install a small “app” on the device.

This process is done inside Ledger Wallet™:

Go to My Ledger
Connect and unlock your hardware device
Install the apps you need

Step 4: Add Crypto Accounts

Once apps are installed:

Click Add Account
Select a cryptocurrency
Verify the address on your hardware wallet
Ledger Wallet™ will synchronize with the blockchain

You can now view balances, monitor your portfolio, and send or receive crypto.

How to Update Ledger Wallet™ Safely

Ledger frequently releases updates to:

Add new crypto support
Improve performance
Fix security vulnerabilities

To update Ledger Wallet™:

Open the app
If an update is available, you’ll see a notification
Click Update Now
Follow installation prompts

Updates are critical for maintaining security, so never ignore them.

Security Best Practices for Using Ledger Wallet™

Even with a hardware wallet, users must adopt strong security habits. Here are essential tips:

✔ Never share your 24-word recovery phrase

No employee, website, or app should ever ask for it.

✔ Verify all addresses directly on your Ledger device

Phishing malware can change destinations on your screen.

✔ Avoid installing unofficial browser extensions

Only use Ledger's verified ecosystem.

✔ Update firmware and Ledger Wallet™ regularly

Security patches protect against new threats.

✔ Use a PIN that is hard to guess

Avoid repeating digits or birth years.

Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues

1. Ledger Wallet™ won’t install on Windows

Try running the installer as administrator.

2. macOS says the app “cannot be opened”

Go to:
System Settings → Privacy & Security → Allow apps from Ledger

3. Linux permissions error

Run:
chmod +x ledger-live.AppImage

4. Bluetooth not connecting on mobile

Try enabling Bluetooth permissions in phone settings and restart both devices.

Final Thoughts

Ledger Wallet™ (formerly Ledger Live) remains one of the most trusted applications for managing crypto securely in 2025. By following the official download and installation steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure your Ledger device is set up safely and correctly. Remember—security always begins with downloading software from official sources and keeping your device offline through a hardware wallet.