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

Managing your crypto assets securely and efficiently begins with Ledger® Live: Desktop, the official companion app for your Ledger hardware wallet. Designed for simplicity, power, and most importantly, security, Ledger Live gives you complete control of your crypto assets—all in one place.

Whether you're new to Ledger or transitioning from mobile to desktop, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started, from setup and installation to using advanced features.

What Is Ledger® Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop is the official application developed by Ledger to work with your Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Nano X hardware wallet. It allows users to manage thousands of crypto assets across multiple blockchains, all while keeping private keys secured offline in the hardware device.

With Ledger Live, you can:

• Set up and manage your Ledger device
• Buy, sell, swap, and stake cryptocurrencies
• View portfolio performance in real-time
• Install and manage blockchain apps on your device
• Interact with decentralized apps (dApps) securely

Step 1: Download Ledger Live for Desktop

To begin, download the Ledger Live app from the official Ledger website: www.ledger.com/ledger-live

Select the version compatible with your operating system:

• Windows
• macOS
• Linux

✅ Security Tip: Always verify the authenticity of the site URL. Avoid third-party websites or unofficial sources to prevent downloading malicious software.

Step 2: Install and Launch the Application

After downloading:

1. Follow your OS-specific installation prompts.
2. Launch Ledger Live from your applications folder or desktop shortcut.
3. Accept the terms of service and proceed to set up.

Step 3: Initialize or Restore Your Ledger Device

When prompted, choose one of the following options:

• Set up as new device if you’re starting fresh.
• Restore from recovery phrase if you already have a Ledger device.

Follow the on-screen steps to:

• Set up a secure PIN code on your hardware wallet
• Write down the 24-word recovery phrase (do not store it digitally)
• Confirm your recovery phrase on the device

This phrase is your only backup to recover your funds if your device is lost or damaged.

Step 4: Pair Your Ledger Device with Ledger Live

After setup:

• Connect your Ledger device via USB to your computer.
• In Ledger Live, select “Connect your device” and follow prompts.
• Allow Ledger Live to access your device by approving the connection on the device screen.

This completes the basic pairing process, allowing Ledger Live to interact with your device securely.

Step 5: Install Apps and Add Crypto Accounts

Navigate to the “My Ledger” section:

• Install specific apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana) onto your Ledger device.
• Once apps are installed, go to the “Accounts” tab in Ledger Live and click “Add Account.”
• Select the cryptocurrency and allow Ledger Live to synchronize with your hardware wallet.

Now you’re ready to send, receive, and manage that specific cryptocurrency securely.

Step 6: Explore Features and Tools

Ledger Live Desktop is packed with powerful tools:

📊 Portfolio Overview

Get a full snapshot of your holdings, performance charts, and transaction history—all in one place.

🔁 Buy, Swap, and Sell

Integrated partners like MoonPay and Coinify allow you to buy and sell crypto directly in the app.

🔒 Staking

Stake supported assets such as Ethereum (ETH), Tezos (XTZ), and Polkadot (DOT) to earn passive income.

🌐 Discover Web3

Explore decentralized apps (dApps), NFT marketplaces, and DeFi protocols securely using your Ledger.

Security Best Practices

Ledger Live is secure by design, but your actions also play a critical role in keeping your assets safe:

• Never share your 24-word recovery phrase. Ledger will never ask for it.
• Always verify transactions on your device screen.
• Regularly update your firmware and apps via Ledger Live.
• Only download the Ledger Live app from ledger.com

Troubleshooting and Support

Ledger provides comprehensive support via:

• Ledger Support Center: support.ledger.com
• Community Forums and Help Guides
• In-app troubleshooting tips

Common issues like connectivity problems or app installation failures are typically resolved by restarting the device, updating Ledger Live, or reinstalling crypto apps.

Conclusion

Ledger Live Desktop offers unmatched convenience, functionality, and security for managing your crypto portfolio. From initial setup to advanced staking and Web3 access, it ensures that you remain in full control of your digital assets—without sacrificing peace of mind.

Get started with Ledger Live today and take the first step toward secure, self-custodied crypto management. Whether you're storing Bitcoin for the long term or actively engaging in decentralized finance, Ledger provides the tools and safety net you need to navigate the crypto space confidently.