Ledger Live Desktop® — Getting Started

Official Ledger Wallet

Ledger Live Desktop® is the official application designed to work seamlessly with Ledger hardware wallets, giving users full control over their cryptocurrency in a secure, intuitive environment. Built for both beginners and experienced crypto users, Ledger Live Desktop combines asset management, advanced security, and powerful features—all while keeping your private keys offline.

This guide introduces Ledger Live Desktop® and walks you through the essentials to help you get started confidently.

Why Choose Ledger Live Desktop®?

Ledger Live Desktop® is more than just a wallet interface—it’s a complete crypto management platform. Unlike browser-based wallets or centralized exchanges, Ledger Live works directly with Ledger hardware wallets, ensuring your private keys never leave your device.

Key advantages include:

  • Offline private key storage
  • Verified transactions on a physical device
  • Support for thousands of coins and tokens
  • Integrated buying, selling, and staking
  • Clean, user-focused desktop experience

You can download Ledger Live Desktop® only from the official Ledger website: 👉 https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live

Supported Operating Systems

Ledger Live Desktop® is available on all major desktop platforms:

  • Windows (64-bit)
  • macOS
  • Linux

To ensure the best experience and maximum security, always use the latest version of your operating system. Updated system requirements and compatibility information can be found at: 👉 https://support.ledger.com

Installing Ledger Live Desktop®

Getting started takes just a few minutes:

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

  2. Select your operating system and download the installer.

  3. Open the file and follow the on-screen installation instructions.

  4. Launch Ledger Live Desktop® after installation is complete.

🔒 Important: Ledger Live should only be downloaded from Ledger’s official domain. Third-party downloads may expose you to malware or phishing risks.

First-Time Setup Experience

When you open Ledger Live Desktop® for the first time, the app guides you through a streamlined onboarding process.

Choose Your Ledger Device

Select the Ledger hardware wallet you own, such as:

  • Ledger Nano S Plus
  • Ledger Nano X
  • Ledger Stax

New Setup or Restore

You’ll be prompted to either:

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

Ledger Live Desktop® never stores your recovery phrase—this process happens entirely on your device.

Genuine Check & Security Review

The app verifies that your Ledger device is authentic and walks you through key security best practices, ensuring your wallet is ready for safe use.

Managing Your Crypto Accounts

Once your device is connected, you can begin adding cryptocurrency accounts.

  1. Open the Accounts tab
  2. Click Add account
  3. Choose the cryptocurrency you want to manage
  4. Install the required app on your Ledger device when prompted

Ledger Live Desktop® supports 5,000+ cryptocurrencies and tokens, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), and thousands of ERC-20 assets.

View the complete list of supported assets here: 👉 https://www.ledger.com/supported-crypto-assets

Sending and Receiving Assets

Receive Crypto

Receiving crypto is simple and secure:

  • Select an account
  • Click Receive
  • Verify the wallet address on your Ledger device
  • Share the address with the sender

Send Crypto

To send crypto:

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

Every transaction requires physical confirmation, ensuring protection against unauthorized access.

Built-In Buy, Sell & Earn Features

Ledger Live Desktop® allows you to manage your crypto without leaving the app.

Buy & Sell Crypto

Purchase or sell cryptocurrencies using Ledger-approved partners directly within Ledger Live.

Earn Rewards with Staking

Stake supported assets such as Ethereum, Polkadot, Solana, and Tezos to earn rewards while maintaining custody of your funds.

These features are available in the Discover and Earn sections of the app.

Staying Safe with Ledger Live Desktop®

Security is at the core of Ledger Live Desktop®. To stay protected:

  • Never share your 24-word recovery phrase
  • Always verify addresses on your Ledger device
  • Keep Ledger Live Desktop® updated
  • Ignore emails or messages asking for recovery phrases

Ledger will never request your recovery phrase under any circumstances. Learn more about protecting your crypto here: 👉 https://www.ledger.com/academy

Final Overview

Ledger Live Desktop® offers a secure, all-in-one solution for managing cryptocurrency with confidence. By combining a trusted desktop application with a Ledger hardware wallet, users gain unmatched protection while enjoying modern crypto features in one place.