Ledger Live Desktop — Getting Started | Official Ledger Wallet
Cryptocurrency ownership means owning your private keys — and nothing does that better than a hardware wallet. But whether you’re a brand‑new crypto enthusiast or an experienced hodler taking security seriously, you need the right software to interact with your Ledger device. That’s where Ledger Live Desktop comes in — an official, secure, easy‑to‑use application that turns your Ledger hardware wallet into a full‑featured crypto management hub.
In this guide, we’ll walk you step‑by‑step through how to get started with Ledger Live Desktop, from downloading the official app to managing your first crypto transaction — all with the highest security best practices in mind.
What Is Ledger Live Desktop?
Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application created by Ledger for managing cryptocurrency alongside a Ledger hardware wallet (such as Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Ledger Stax). It functions as a central control panel for your digital assets, enabling you to:
- Track your crypto portfolio in real time
- Send and receive assets securely
- Buy, sell, swap, and stake supported cryptocurrencies
- Install blockchain apps on your Ledger device
- Update firmware and manage accounts
- View NFTs
- Connect to Web3 applications (via supported integrations)
Unlike web‑only wallets, Ledger Live Desktop runs locally on your computer (Windows, macOS, or Linux) and ensures your private keys never leave your Ledger hardware wallet — they remain isolated inside a tamper‑resistant chip.
Why Security Matters (And How Ledger Live Helps)
Owning crypto means holding control of your private keys — and that means security must come first. Software wallets on phones or browsers can be compromised by malware or remote attacks. A hardware wallet keeps private keys offline, and Ledger Live Desktop acts as the secure bridge between your device and the blockchain without exposing sensitive data.
However, the security chain is only as strong as its weakest link — which is why Ledger emphasizes downloading the official app only from trusted sources such as Ledger.com/start or Ledger.com/ledger‑live. Fake Ledger downloads have been used in scams that try to trick users into entering their recovery phrases.
Step 1: Download Ledger Live Desktop (Official Source Only)
The first and most critical step is downloading Ledger Live Desktop from the official Ledger website:
- Open your browser and visit:
https://ledger.com/start - Choose your operating system: Windows, macOS, or Linux
- Click the appropriate download link
- Save the installer to your computer
❗ Ledger will never ask you for your 24‑word recovery phrase in the app or on any website — if anything requests it, close the site and verify the URL.
Step 2: Install and Launch the App
Once the download is complete:
- Run the installer file
- Follow the on‑screen instructions to complete installation
- Launch Ledger Live Desktop
The app will open to a welcome screen where you can begin setup. If your operating system asks permission for Ledger Live to run or access USB devices, allow it — this is necessary for secure communication with your Ledger hardware wallet.
Step 3: Pair Your Ledger Wallet
To start using Ledger Live Desktop, you’ll need to connect a Ledger hardware wallet:
- Plug your Ledger device into your computer using its USB cable
- Turn on the device
- If prompted, enter your PIN code on the physical device
- In Ledger Live Desktop, click “Get Started”
- Choose whether to set up as a new device or restore from an existing recovery phrase
- New device: You’ll generate a new recovery phrase on the device
- Existing device: You’ll confirm your current phrase and access prior funds
During initialization, the Ledger device will generate a 24‑word recovery phrase. Write this down on paper or a secure metal backup and store it offline — never take a photo or save it digitally.
Step 4: Verify and Update Firmware
Once your Ledger device is paired with Ledger Live:
- The app may prompt you to verify the device authenticity
- Follow on‑screen instructions to update the firmware if a new version is available
Firmware updates are cryptographically signed and ensure your device has the latest security protections. Ledger Live guides you through the update process safely — but always confirm prompts on the physical device screen before approving them.
Step 5: Add Crypto Accounts
After setup and firmware verification:
- Go to the Manager tab in Ledger Live Desktop
- Install the blockchain apps you need (for example, Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana)
- Navigate to Accounts
- Click “Add account” to link your Ledger wallet balances with Ledger Live
Ledger Live will scan the network and show your account balances as well as transaction histories. This lets you view all your assets in one dashboard, even across multiple chains.
Step 6: Send, Receive, Swap, and Stake
With your accounts added, Ledger Live Desktop lets you:
- Receive crypto:
Select an account → Click Receive → Confirm the address on your Ledger device before sharing it with the sender. - Send crypto:
Choose an account → Click Send → Enter the recipient address and amount → Confirm on the Ledger device. - Swap or Buy:
Use built‑in partners directly from the app to exchange tokens or buy crypto with fiat. - Stake assets:
Earn rewards by staking supported coins directly through the interface.
Every transaction must be verified on the Ledger device itself — this ensures your private keys are never exposed to your computer or the internet.
Safety Tips for Long‑Term Use
To keep your crypto secure over time:
- Always download app updates from Ledger.com/start
- Never enter your 24‑word recovery phrase online
- Store your recovery phrase offline — avoid photos, cloud storage, or screenshots
- Confirm every transaction on the device screen before approving
- Use a secure, malware‑free computer when managing crypto
- Consider a passphrase (optional extra layer) only if you understand the tradeoffs
Common Issues & Troubleshooting
If Ledger Live Desktop doesn’t detect your device:
- Try the original USB cable and a different port
- Make sure Ledger Live and your device firmware are both up to date
- Restart Ledger Live or reboot your computer
- Visit Ledger Support for official troubleshooting steps
Persistent problems may also arise from system permissions or outdated USB drivers, so checking your operating system’s hardware settings can help.
Conclusion — Your Secure Crypto Control Center
Ledger Live Desktop is more than just a wallet interface — it’s your secure command center for managing digital assets. With a clear setup flow, powerful portfolio tools, and built‑in protections, it empowers both beginners and advanced users to take full control of their crypto — without ever exposing private keys to the internet.
Getting started is straightforward: download the official app, pair your Ledger hardware wallet, verify and update firmware, add accounts, and begin managing your assets confidently. Just remember — security first: always use official links, confirm everything on‑device, and never share your recovery phrase anywhere.