How to download Ledger Live safely
Start at the official root Ledger.com/start. This page is the single trusted root recommended by Ledger devices during onboarding. Typing the URL manually or using a saved bookmark prevents typosquatting and phishing pages from tricking you into downloading malicious software. Once on the official page, choose the appropriate installer for your platform.
Open your browser and type Ledger.com/start into the address bar. Do not click links from untrusted emails or social media posts.
Select Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS or Android depending on your device. Ensure you pick the correct file type for your operating system (EXE, DMG, AppImage, APK via official store for Android, or App Store for iOS).
Save the installer, take note of the file name and size, and prepare to verify the checksum or signature if available.
Run the installer, open Ledger Live, and follow the guided steps to pair your Ledger device, install coin apps, or restore from a recovery phrase only if you have a legitimate backup.
Verifying installers (why and how)
Verifying checksums or cryptographic signatures ensures the file you downloaded is identical to what Ledger published. This guards against tampering en route. Official pages may provide SHA256 checksums or PGP signatures. Use built-in system utilities (sha256sum, shasum) or PGP tools to confirm the file fingerprint before running installers.
- Obtain checksum/signature from the same official page (Ledger.com/start).
- Run a checksum utility and compare the hash strings exactly.
- For PGP-signed releases, verify the signature using the vendor’s verified public key.
Security checklist & post-install actions
After installing Ledger Live, never enter your recovery phrase into apps or web pages. When initializing a new device, generate the recovery phrase on-device and write it down offline. If Ledger Live requests firmware updates, confirm authenticity on the device screen before allowing the update. Keep Ledger Live and your OS updated, and consider using a dedicated browser profile for crypto interactions.
Threat model & advanced recommendations
For most users, downloading Ledger Live from the official root and verifying installers is sufficient. For high-value holdings, consider air-gapped setup methods, multisignature arrangements, and metal backups for recovery phrases. Always assume that compromise of your computer could expose you to phishing — the final defense remains the on-device confirmation that Ledger devices provide.
Following this guide ensures you obtain Ledger Live with minimal risk and keep your hardware wallet workflow secure. For device-specific nuances, consult official documentation at the Ledger start page.