Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the official Ledger Live desktop app is completely free to download and use. You can get it for Windows, Mac, and Linux. The software is designed to work with your Ledger hardware wallet (a separate purchase). There are no subscription fees for using the core features of the Ledger Live software.

When a new version is available, a blue banner will appear at the top of the Ledger Live application. Simply click the 'Download Now' button and follow the instructions. Updates provide new features, coin support, and security enhancements. Only update through the in-app notification or the official website.

NEVER. You should never, under any circumstances, type your 24-word recovery phrase into the Ledger Live app or any other software or website. The official Ledger Live application will never ask for it. Your recovery phrase is only used for one purpose: to restore your accounts on a new hardware wallet if your old one is lost or damaged. Anyone asking for your recovery phrase online is trying to scam you and steal your funds. Keep it offline and secure at all times.

The "Ledger wallet" (e.g., Nano X) is the physical hardware device that stores your private keys offline. The "Ledger Live app" is the software interface on your desktop or mobile that lets you view your portfolio and initiate transactions. The app cannot function without the hardware wallet to securely approve all actions.

The Ledger Live desktop application is officially supported on Windows 10 or later (64-bit), macOS 10.15 (Catalina) or later, and Ubuntu 20.04 or later (64-bit). Always ensure your OS is up to date for best performance and security.

The only safe place to download the Ledger Live application is from the official Ledger website. Do not trust links from search engine ads, emails, or social media messages. Our website provides verified links directly to the official source to ensure you are downloading the genuine, untampered software.

Yes, this is the primary benefit of a hardware wallet. Even if your computer is compromised with malware, your crypto assets remain secure. Your private keys are stored on your physical Ledger device and never leave it. All critical operations, like sending funds, must be physically confirmed on the device itself. A virus on your computer cannot press the buttons on your hardware wallet, so it cannot authorize a transaction.

While you can download and open Ledger Live, its core functionalities are locked without a connected Ledger hardware wallet. The app is an interface for your physical device. To manage, send, or receive assets, you must have your Ledger device to physically verify and approve transactions, which is the core of its security model.