Ledger® Live: Desktop | Getting Started With Ledger® Support

Ledger® Live is the official desktop application developed by Ledger, enabling users to manage their cryptocurrency assets safely and efficiently. It acts as the bridge between your Ledger hardware wallet and the blockchain, allowing secure transactions, real-time portfolio tracking, staking, and more. Whether you’re just starting with crypto or are a seasoned investor, getting started with Ledger Live on desktop is the first step to secure digital asset management.

What Is Ledger Live?

Ledger Live is a comprehensive application available on Windows, macOS, and Linux. It allows you to manage more than 5,000 coins and tokens, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), and various ERC-20 tokens. With Ledger Live, you don’t need to rely on third-party wallets or web interfaces that may expose you to unnecessary risks. Every transaction initiated on Ledger Live must be physically confirmed using your Ledger hardware wallet, keeping your private keys secure offline.

Before You Begin

To get started with Ledger Live on your desktop, you’ll need:

  • A Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S Plus or Nano X)
  • A USB cable to connect the device (Nano X also supports Bluetooth for mobile)
  • A computer with an internet connection
  • The Ledger Live desktop application (download only from Ledger’s official website)

Once you have the required hardware and software, you’re ready to begin the setup process.

Step 1: Download and Install Ledger Live

Start by visiting the official Ledger website and downloading the Ledger Live app for your operating system. Make sure you're using the official site to avoid downloading malicious software.

After downloading, follow the on-screen installation steps:

  • On Windows: Run the .exe file and complete the installation wizard.
  • On macOS: Open the .dmg file and drag Ledger Live into the Applications folder.
  • On Linux: Follow the package installation instructions based on your distribution.

Step 2: Launch Ledger Live and Initialize Your Device

When you open Ledger Live for the first time, you will be asked whether you already have a Ledger device or need to set up a new one.

  • New users can choose to initialize their Ledger device. This involves:
  • Setting a secure PIN code
  • Writing down the 24-word recovery phrase
  • Verifying the recovery phrase for accuracy

Make sure to write down your recovery phrase and store it in a secure location. Never share this phrase with anyone, and do not store it digitally.

  • Existing users can choose the “Restore from recovery phrase” option to recover their wallet on a new device using the 24 words.

Step 3: Pair Your Device and Set a Password

After setup, connect your Ledger device to the computer and unlock it using the PIN. Ledger Live will then prompt you to set a password for local app access (optional but recommended). This adds an extra layer of protection if someone gains access to your computer.

Step 4: Install Apps and Add Accounts

Ledger Live uses apps installed on your device to manage specific cryptocurrencies. For example, to manage Bitcoin, you must install the Bitcoin app on your Ledger wallet.

To do this:

  • Open Ledger Live and go to “Manager”
  • Approve access on your Ledger device
  • Browse and install the required apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum)

Next, go to “Accounts” and click “Add Account”. Choose the crypto asset, and Ledger Live will sync with the blockchain to detect your wallet addresses.

Step 5: Send, Receive, and Manage Crypto

Once your accounts are added, you can now send and receive assets:

  • To receive: Click “Receive,” choose the account, and verify the address shown in Ledger Live matches what is displayed on your Ledger device.
  • To send: Click “Send,” enter the destination address, amount, and confirm the transaction on your device.

Additional Features

Ledger Live desktop also includes:

  • Buy/Sell/SWAP: Integrated partner services for purchasing or exchanging crypto directly within the app.
  • Staking: Stake supported assets like Ethereum, Polkadot, and Tezos to earn rewards.
  • Portfolio Overview: Track the performance of your assets in real-time.
  • NFT Support: View and manage Ethereum-based NFTs directly in the app.

Troubleshooting and Support

If you face any issues during setup or usage, here are some quick tips:

  • Update Firmware and Apps: Regularly update your Ledger device firmware and apps for security and compatibility.
  • Use Official Support: If you’re unsure or need assistance, visit the official Ledger Support page within the app or on their website.
  • Avoid Phishing: Never share your 24-word recovery phrase. Ledger will never ask for it under any circumstances.

Conclusion

Ledger Live for desktop is a powerful, secure tool that brings simplicity to crypto asset management. From setup to transaction confirmation, every step is designed with user safety in mind. Whether you’re managing Bitcoin, altcoins, NFTs, or staking rewards, Ledger Live ensures your digital wealth remains under your full control—offline, private, and protected.