Ledger® Live: Desktop® — Getting Started

Welcome. This guide walks you through downloading Ledger Live Desktop, setting up your Ledger hardware device, adding accounts, and performing basic transactions — all while keeping security and best practices front of mind.

What is Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live is the desktop application that connects securely to your Ledger hardware wallet (such as Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X) so you can manage crypto assets locally. It lets you:

Install and update apps on your Ledger device.
Create and restore wallets from recovery phrases.
Send and receive cryptocurrencies and tokens.
View portfolio balances, transaction history, and performance.
Access staking and swap features (availability depends on asset and region).

System requirements

Before installing, make sure your computer meets the minimum requirements:

OS: Windows 10 (64-bit) or later, macOS 10.14+ (Darwin), or popular Linux distributions.
Hardware: USB port (for Ledger Nano S / S Plus) or Bluetooth support for Ledger Nano X if using wireless.
Permissions: Ability to install applications and drivers on your machine.

Tip: Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website to avoid malicious copies.

Install Ledger Live Desktop

Step 1 — Download the installer

Visit the official Ledger site and choose the Desktop version. Select the installer matching your operating system (Windows .exe, macOS .dmg, or Linux .AppImage/.deb).

Step 2 — Run the installer

Open the downloaded file and follow the on-screen prompts. On macOS you may need to allow the app in System Preferences > Security & Privacy.

Step 3 — Launch Ledger Live

On first launch, Ledger Live will check for updates. It may ask for permission to install additional system components if required.

First-time setup: initialize or restore

When opening Ledger Live for the first time, you have two options: create a new wallet (initialize a device) or restore an existing wallet using your 24-word recovery phrase.

Create a new device

Connect your Ledger device to the computer and power it on.
Follow the prompts on the device to choose a PIN code. Memorize it — the PIN protects access to the device.
Write down the recovery phrase shown on the device; this is the only backup of your private keys. Store it securely offline in two separate physical locations if possible.

Restore from a recovery phrase

On the device, select "Restore device" and enter your 24-word phrase using the device buttons.
After restoring, Ledger Live will detect your accounts and prompt you to add them.

Never share your recovery phrase with anyone. Ledger staff will never ask for it. If anyone requests it, treat it as a phishing attempt and stop immediately.

Adding and managing accounts

Ledger Live organizes assets by accounts. Each account corresponds to a blockchain address derivation. To add accounts:

Open Ledger Live and navigate to Accounts > Add account.
Choose the currency (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
Follow prompts to connect and unlock your Ledger device and open the relevant app on the device (for example, the Bitcoin app).
Ledger Live will scan the blockchain and display your accounts; click "Add" to confirm.

Accounts can be renamed, archived, or hidden. You can add multiple accounts for the same currency to separate funds for budgeting or privacy.

Send & Receive

Receive funds

Open the account for the currency you want to receive into.
Click Receive, connect your device, and open the app on your device when requested.
Ledger Live will display an address; verify that the same address is shown on your Ledger device screen before sharing it with the sender.

Send funds

Open the account and click Send.
Enter the destination address and amount. Ledger Live may show recommended fees or allow custom fees for faster confirmation.
Connect the device and verify transaction details (amount, address, fees) on the device screen before confirming. Your device must sign the transaction physically — this ensures transactions cannot be performed remotely.

Always double-check addresses — copy/paste can be intercepted by malware. Verifying the address on your Ledger device ensures it is correct.

Staking, swapping, and advanced features

Ledger Live may offer staking options for supported assets, letting you earn yields while keeping custody of your private keys. It can also integrate with swap services to exchange assets without exposing keys. Availability depends on the asset and your region.

Before staking or swapping, review terms, fees, lock-up periods, and counterparty risks. Ledger Live is an interface — third-party services may be used for certain operations.

Security best practices

Keep your recovery phrase offline: Store it physically, not digitally. No photos, screenshots, or cloud storage.
Use a strong PIN: Choose a PIN you can remember but is not easily guessed.
Verify on-device: Always confirm addresses and transaction details on the Ledger device itself.
Update firmware safely: Only update firmware via Ledger Live when prompted. Read upgrade notes and backup recovery phrase before upgrading.
Beware of phishing: Bookmark the official Ledger site and never follow links from unsolicited e-mails. Ledger will never ask for your 24-word phrase.

Troubleshooting common issues

Ledger Live won’t open or install

Try reinstalling, checking OS permissions, and ensuring your machine meets requirements. On Windows, verify driver installation; on macOS review Security & Privacy settings.

Device not recognized

Check USB cables and ports, try a different cable, or use a direct USB port instead of a hub. Ensure the device is unlocked and the correct app is open on the device.

Balances don’t appear

Ledger Live may need to resync accounts or update apps on the device. Use "Sync" or remove and re-add the account if necessary. Your funds remain on-chain even if Ledger Live is not showing them.

FAQ

What if I lose my Ledger device?

If you lose the hardware device but have your recovery phrase, you can restore your wallet on a new Ledger device or another compatible wallet. Without the recovery phrase, funds cannot be recovered.

Can Ledger Live be used with multiple devices?

Yes. Ledger Live can manage multiple Ledger devices and many accounts. Each physical device remains the root of trust for signing.

Is Ledger Live open-source?

Ledger publishes many components as open-source. Consult official Ledger resources to learn which parts are publicly auditable.

Next steps and resources

After setup, consider these next steps:

Explore the Ledger Live portfolio view and transaction history to get familiar with the UI.
Read the detailed security documentation on the official Ledger support site.
Practice small, low-value transactions to build confidence before moving larger amounts.

If you need personalised help or run into a problem you can’t resolve, consult Ledger’s official support center. Never share your recovery phrase — support will never ask for it.

Thank you for choosing Ledger to secure your crypto journey. Keep your recovery phrase safe, verify on-device, and enjoy managing your assets with Ledger Live Desktop.

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