Ledger Live Desktop — Getting Started

A friendly, step-by-step introduction to installing, configuring and securing your Ledger Live Desktop app. This guide focuses on practical steps and helpful tips so you can manage your crypto with confidence.

Intro

Ledger Live Desktop is the companion app for Ledger hardware wallets. It lets you manage accounts, send and receive assets, install apps on your device, and track portfolio performance — all from a single secure interface. Before you begin, make sure you have your Ledger hardware device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or other supported model), the recovery phrase from onboarding, and a secure computer.

Install & First Launch

1

Download from official source

Always download Ledger Live Desktop from the official Ledger website. Verify the file and checksum if you want extra assurance. Use the official installer for your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux).

2

Run the installer

Follow on-screen instructions. The installer will add Ledger Live to your applications. Allow permissions for USB or Bluetooth if you plan to connect your device.

3

Open the app & accept updates

On first launch Ledger Live may prompt to download firmware or app updates. Only update when connected to your hardware device and verify prompts shown on your device screen before confirming.

Set up an account

Ledger Live will let you create or add accounts for supported blockchains (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana and many others). Accounts are views into the public addresses derived by your ledger device; private keys never leave the device. Typical setup flow:

  1. Connect your Ledger device and unlock it with your PIN.
  2. Open the required blockchain app on the device (for example, Bitcoin app).
  3. In Ledger Live, choose "Add Account", pick the blockchain, and follow prompts to discover addresses.

The app will sync with the network and display your balances. It may take a minute for initial synchronization on first accounts.

Useful features to explore

  • Manager: Install or remove blockchain apps on your device.
  • Portfolio: See total value across accounts and charts for performance.
  • Swap & Buy: Integrations for exchanging or buying assets (third-party services may apply).
  • Manager: Firmware updates when Ledger releases them. Carefully confirm updates on your device.

Security best practices

Security is the most important part of using Ledger Live. Your recovery phrase (24 words for many Ledger devices) is the ultimate backup — treat it like a master key. A few practical tips:

  • Never type your recovery phrase into a computer or a website. Ledger will never ask for your phrase.
  • Store the recovery phrase offline in a secure physical place (metal plate, safe, or safety deposit box).
  • Enable a strong computer password and keep your OS and antivirus up to date.
  • Verify all transaction details on the device itself before approving.
  • Beware of phishing emails and fake Ledger websites — always check URLs and bookmarks.

Practical tips

If you plan to hold many assets, create separate accounts for different chains to keep bookkeeping clean. Use the export account feature to generate CSV reports for taxes. Consider a secondary, air-gapped device for cold storage of very large holdings. And remember: small test transactions are your friend when sending to new addresses.

FAQ

Q: Can Ledger Live recover my seed phrase?
A: No. Ledger Live never stores your seed. Recovery is done using the seed on a compatible wallet or device.

Q: Is Ledger Live safe to use on a public computer?
A: Avoid public computers. Use a trusted personal device where possible.