Ledger® Live: Desktop | Getting Started with Ledgér | Lédger®
A concise, practical 900-word walkthrough for installing, configuring, and securing Ledger Live on desktop — complete with official links and quick tips.
Introduction
Ledger Live is the official desktop application for managing your hardware wallet (Ledger Nano family). This guide explains how to download Ledger Live, set up your device, install apps, add accounts, and perform basic transactions while focusing on security best practices. Follow each step carefully and bookmark official resources below for reference.
What you'll need
- A Ledger hardware device (e.g., Ledger Nano S Plus or Nano X).
- A desktop computer (Windows, macOS, or Linux) with an internet connection.
- Your 24-word recovery phrase (store offline — never enter it into software).
Download & install
Always download Ledger Live from Ledger’s official site. After downloading, verify the installer if you prefer additional safety checks. Launch the installer and follow on-screen instructions. Grant permissions only when necessary.
Quick steps
- Visit the official Ledger Live download page and choose your OS.
- Run the downloaded installer and follow prompts.
- Open Ledger Live and allow automatic updates when prompted.
Pairing your Ledger device
Open Ledger Live and select Get started. Choose whether to set up a new device or recover an existing one. If you're setting up a new device, follow the device’s screen prompts to create a PIN and write down your recovery phrase on the supplied card — never store it digitally.
Install apps
Ledger devices use individual apps for each cryptocurrency. From Ledger Live’s Manager tab you can install the apps you need. Only install official apps from Ledger’s app catalog; avoid third-party apps unless you know exactly what they do.
Adding accounts
In Ledger Live use the Accounts section to add an account for each currency. Connect your device, open the corresponding app on the device, then follow Ledger Live. Your public addresses will be fetched from the device — never expose your private keys.
Sending & receiving
To receive funds, create a receive address in Ledger Live and verify the address on your device screen. To send funds, create a transaction in Ledger Live and confirm on-device to authorize. Confirm amounts and recipient addresses carefully.
Security best practices
Security is the top priority. Ledger hardware wallets protect private keys offline, but user behavior matters. Never reveal your 24-word phrase. Ledger technical support will never ask for your recovery phrase or PIN.
Top tips
- Always verify the URL before downloading: use official links only.
- Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated via official channels.
- Use a strong device PIN and store your recovery phrase offline in a secure place.
- Be cautious of phishing emails and fake websites — type ledger.com manually when needed.
Troubleshooting & help
If Ledger Live fails to detect your device, try a different USB cable or port, make sure the device is unlocked, and the correct app is open on-device. For persistent issues consult Ledger’s help resources and community.
Use these links for authoritative downloads, support articles, and announcements. Bookmark them to avoid phishing risks.