Ledger® Live: Desktop | Getting Started with Ledger

Managing cryptocurrencies safely requires the right combination of security and convenience. Ledger® Live Desktop is the official software from Ledger, designed to work seamlessly with Ledger hardware wallets (Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X). With Ledger Live, you can buy, sell, swap, stake, and manage your digital assets—all while ensuring your private keys remain offline and protected.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know to get started with Ledger Live on your desktop.

1. What Is Ledger Live?

Ledger Live is a free application developed by Ledger to help you securely manage your crypto portfolio. Unlike online wallets or exchanges that hold custody of your funds, Ledger Live works directly with your Ledger hardware wallet, ensuring that only you control your private keys.

Key benefits include:

  • Full asset control – Your private keys never leave your Ledger device.
  • All-in-one management – Buy, sell, swap, stake, and track your portfolio.
  • Wide crypto support – Manage 5,500+ coins and tokens.
  • Enhanced security – Ledger Live requires confirmation on your hardware wallet for every transaction.

2. System Requirements

Before installing Ledger Live, make sure your computer meets the following requirements:

  • Operating Systems:
  • Windows 10 or later
  • macOS 12 or later
  • Linux Ubuntu 20.04 or later
  • USB Port: A standard USB-A or USB-C port (depending on your Ledger device cable).
  • Internet Connection: Required for real-time updates and blockchain synchronization.

3. Downloading and Installing Ledger Live

  1. Visit the Official Website
    Go to ledger.com/ledger-live to download Ledger Live. Avoid third-party sites to protect yourself from phishing attacks.
  2. Select Your Operating System
    Choose Windows, macOS, or Linux, depending on your computer.
  3. Install the Application
  • On Windows: Run the .exe file and follow the setup wizard.
  • On macOS: Drag the Ledger Live icon into the Applications folder.
  • On Linux: Follow the installation instructions provided on Ledger’s site.
  1. Launch Ledger Live
    Open the application and grant permissions if prompted.

4. Setting Up Ledger Live for the First Time

Once installed, follow these steps:

Step 1: Choose Device Setup

  • If you already own a Ledger Nano X or S Plus, connect it using the USB cable.
  • If you are setting up a new device, follow the on-screen instructions to initialize it (create a PIN code and write down your recovery phrase).

Step 2: Install Firmware Updates

Ledger Live may prompt you to update your device’s firmware for security and compatibility. Always confirm firmware updates only within Ledger Live.

Step 3: Create a Password Lock (Optional)

You can set a password to protect access to Ledger Live on your computer. This adds an extra layer of security in case someone has access to your PC.

Step 4: Install Crypto Apps on Your Ledger Device

Ledger devices use apps to manage specific cryptocurrencies. From Ledger Live:

  • Go to Manager
  • Connect and unlock your device
  • Install apps like Bitcoin, Ethereum, or others you wish to use

5. Adding Accounts

To start managing assets, you need to add accounts:

  1. Click Accounts in Ledger Live.
  2. Choose Add Account.
  3. Select the cryptocurrency you want (e.g., Bitcoin).
  4. Connect and unlock your Ledger device, then open the respective app.
  5. Ledger Live will scan the blockchain and display your balance.
  6. Confirm, and the account will appear in your dashboard.

You can repeat this process for multiple cryptocurrencies.

6. Sending and Receiving Crypto

Receiving Crypto

  1. Click Receive.
  2. Select the account you want funds sent to.
  3. Connect and unlock your device.
  4. Verify the address shown in Ledger Live matches what’s displayed on your Ledger hardware wallet screen.
  5. Share the verified address with the sender.

Sending Crypto

  1. Click Send.
  2. Enter the recipient’s wallet address and the amount.
  3. Review transaction fees.
  4. Confirm the transaction details on your Ledger device by pressing the buttons.

Your transaction will then be broadcast to the blockchain.

7. Buying, Swapping, and Staking

Ledger Live partners with trusted third-party providers to allow in-app services:

  • Buy Crypto: Purchase Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other assets with credit card, debit card, or bank transfer.
  • Swap Crypto: Instantly exchange one cryptocurrency for another without leaving Ledger Live.
  • Stake Crypto: Earn rewards by staking coins such as Ethereum, Solana, or Tezos directly through Ledger Live.
Note: Service availability may vary depending on your location.

8. Security Best Practices

Ledger Live is highly secure, but following best practices is essential:

  • Always verify addresses on your Ledger hardware wallet screen.
  • Update Ledger Live and your device firmware regularly.
  • Never share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone. Ledger will never ask for it.
  • Download only from the official Ledger website to avoid malware.
  • Enable password lock for Ledger Live on your computer.

9. Troubleshooting and Support

If you encounter issues:

  • Use the Help section inside Ledger Live for FAQs and guides.
  • Visit Ledger Support.
  • Contact official support only through the Ledger website—beware of fake support accounts on social media.

Conclusion

Ledger® Live Desktop provides a secure and convenient way to manage your cryptocurrency portfolio. By pairing it with your Ledger Nano S Plus or Nano X, you maintain complete control over your private keys while enjoying user-friendly tools to send, receive, stake, and grow your assets.

Whether you’re a beginner buying your first Bitcoin or an experienced investor managing multiple wallets, Ledger Live ensures your digital assets remain safe and accessible.

Start today by downloading Ledger Live from the official Ledger website and connecting your hardware wallet—the safest path to mastering self-custody.