Ledger Live Desktop — Getting Started | Official Ledger Wallet

Ledger Live Desktop is the official companion application for Ledger hardware wallets, designed to help users securely manage, store, buy, sell, and stake cryptocurrencies. Whether you’re new to crypto or an experienced investor, Ledger Live provides a simple yet powerful interface while keeping your private keys offline and protected by Ledger’s industry-leading security.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know to get started with Ledger Live Desktop, from downloading the app to managing your crypto assets safely.

What Is Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop is a free application developed by Ledger that allows you to interact with your Ledger hardware wallet (such as Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, or Ledger Stax). Unlike web wallets or exchanges, Ledger Live works in combination with your physical device to ensure your private keys never leave your wallet.

You can download Ledger Live Desktop for Windows, macOS, and Linux directly from Ledger’s official website: 👉 https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live

System Requirements

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

  • Windows: Windows 10 or later (64-bit)
  • macOS: macOS 12 or later
  • Linux: Ubuntu 20.04+, Fedora, or similar distributions
  • USB port (or Bluetooth for Ledger Nano X)
  • Stable internet connection

For the most up-to-date compatibility details, visit Ledger’s official support page: 👉 https://support.ledger.com

How to Download and Install Ledger Live Desktop

  1. Visit the official Ledger Live download page: 👉 https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live

  2. Choose your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).

  3. Download the installer file and open it.

  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete installation.

⚠️ Security tip: Always download Ledger Live only from Ledger’s official website. Avoid third-party links or unofficial sources to protect yourself from phishing attacks.

Setting Up Ledger Live for the First Time

When you launch Ledger Live Desktop for the first time, you’ll be guided through a setup process.

Step 1: Choose Your Device

Select the Ledger hardware wallet you own (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax).

Step 2: Initialize or Restore

You’ll be asked whether you want to:

  • Set up a new Ledger device, or
  • Restore an existing wallet using your recovery phrase

If you’re setting up a new device, Ledger Live will guide you step by step.

Step 3: Security Checklist

Ledger Live includes a built-in security checklist to help ensure:

  • Your recovery phrase is written down
  • Your device is genuine
  • Your PIN code is secure

This checklist is essential for protecting your funds long-term.

Adding Crypto Accounts

Once your device is connected and verified, you can start adding accounts.

  1. Open Ledger Live Desktop
  2. Go to Accounts
  3. Click Add account
  4. Select the cryptocurrency (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana)
  5. Install the required app on your Ledger device when prompted

Ledger Live supports 5,000+ coins and tokens, including major assets like BTC, ETH, XRP, and many ERC-20 tokens.

You can check the full list of supported assets here: 👉 https://www.ledger.com/supported-crypto-assets

Sending and Receiving Crypto

Receiving Crypto

  • Open the account
  • Click Receive
  • Verify the address on your Ledger device
  • Share the address to receive funds

Sending Crypto

  • Click Send
  • Enter the recipient’s address and amount
  • Confirm the transaction on your Ledger device

All transactions must be physically approved on your Ledger wallet, adding an extra layer of security.

Buying, Selling, and Staking Crypto

Ledger Live Desktop allows you to do more than just store crypto:

  • Buy crypto using trusted partners
  • Sell crypto directly within the app
  • Stake assets like Ethereum, Polkadot, Solana, and Tezos to earn rewards

These features are accessible from the Discover and Earn sections inside Ledger Live.

Keeping Ledger Live Secure

To stay safe while using Ledger Live Desktop:

  • Never share your 24-word recovery phrase
  • Keep your Ledger Live app updated
  • Always verify transaction details on your device screen
  • Beware of fake emails claiming to be from Ledger

Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase. Learn more about crypto safety here: 👉 https://www.ledger.com/academy

Final Thoughts

Ledger Live Desktop is a powerful, user-friendly platform that combines convenience with top-tier security. By pairing the app with a Ledger hardware wallet, you maintain full control over your crypto while reducing the risks associated with online wallets and exchanges.