Ledger® Live: Desktop® — Getting Started

Introduction

Welcome to Ledger Live Desktop – your gateway to secure cryptocurrency management. Whether you're holding Bitcoin, Ethereum, or a diverse range of altcoins, Ledger Live lets you manage your portfolio while ensuring your private keys never leave your Ledger device.

This guide walks you through everything you need to get started, from installation to adding accounts and securing transactions — even if you’ve never used a hardware wallet before.

Tip: Always download Ledger Live from the official website: ledger.com/ledger-live

1. Why Use Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live is the official software for managing your Ledger hardware wallet. It allows you to:

Safely send and receive cryptocurrencies
Install blockchain apps onto your Ledger device
Track portfolio performance
Stake assets like Ethereum or Tezos
Securely sign transactions with your device

Unlike mobile wallets, the desktop version is designed for those who prefer a full-sized interface, advanced settings, and a higher level of control.

2. What You’ll Need

Before installing Ledger Live, gather the following:

Your Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax)
USB cable to connect the device
A desktop or laptop with internet access
Your 24-word recovery phrase (only if restoring a wallet)

Important: Never share your 24-word recovery phrase. Ledger will never ask for it.

3. Install Ledger Live

Visit ledger.com/ledger-live
Choose your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux)
Download and run the installer
Follow on-screen prompts to complete installation

After installation, open Ledger Live. You’ll be welcomed with a setup wizard.

4. Set Up or Restore Your Device

Ledger Live will ask whether you want to set up a new device or restore an existing one:

New Device: Your Ledger will guide you through generating a 24-word recovery phrase and PIN.
Restore Wallet: Select "Restore", and enter your 24-word phrase on the device only.

Ledger Live then verifies the authenticity of your hardware using its built-in secure element.

5. Install Apps via the Manager

Each blockchain (like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana) requires a corresponding app installed on your Ledger device:

Click on the "Manager" tab in Ledger Live
Connect and unlock your Ledger device
Search for the blockchain app (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum)
Click “Install”

You can install multiple apps, though storage is limited. You can uninstall and reinstall apps without losing access to your funds.

6. Add Accounts

Once blockchain apps are installed, you can add accounts:

Go to “Accounts” > “Add Account”
Select the crypto (e.g., Ethereum)
Confirm via your Ledger device
Ledger Live will derive your public address

Now your portfolio will display your balance, recent transactions, and account overview.

7. Receive and Verify Crypto

To receive funds:

Select the crypto account you want to receive to
Click “Receive”
Ledger Live will display an address — confirm it matches what's on your device screen
Copy and share this verified address with the sender

Always verify the address on your hardware device before using it to avoid phishing scams.

8. Sending Crypto Securely

To send crypto, follow these steps:

Go to “Send” in Ledger Live
Enter the recipient’s address and amount
Confirm transaction details on your Ledger device
Approve the transaction on your device

Only transactions approved on your hardware wallet will be broadcasted — this ensures maximum safety.

9. Additional Features

Ledger Live Desktop also allows:

Staking: Earn rewards by staking supported assets like Ethereum, Solana, or Tezos
Swap: Swap one crypto for another directly inside Ledger Live via integrated exchanges
Buy/Sell: Purchase crypto with fiat through Ledger Live partners
Export CSV: Download transaction history for tax reporting

10. Desktop vs Mobile: Why Use Desktop?

Larger screen for easier navigation
Better for managing many accounts
Ideal for power users, traders, and long-term holders
More advanced diagnostics and logging tools

11. Troubleshooting Tips

Device not recognized? Use a different USB cable or port.
App won’t install? Free up space by uninstalling unused apps.
Slow sync? Ensure you have a stable internet connection.
Firmware issues? Update via the Manager tab.

Need more help? Visit the official help center: support.ledger.com

12. Final Thoughts

Ledger Live for Desktop is one of the most secure and