Ledger Live Desktop® — Getting Started | Official Ledger Wallet®
Getting started with Ledger Live Desktop is the essential first step to securely managing your cryptocurrency using a Ledger. Developed by Ledger, Ledger Live Desktop serves as the official control center for your Ledger device, allowing you to safely store, send, receive, buy, sell, and stake digital assets — all while keeping your private keys offline.
This guide explains how to properly set up and begin using Ledger Live Desktop with confidence and security.
💻 What Is Ledger Live Desktop?
Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application designed to work directly with Ledger hardware wallets. It allows you to manage crypto accounts, monitor portfolio performance, install blockchain apps, and securely confirm transactions.
Supported operating systems include:
Windows
macOS
Linux
The desktop version provides full functionality, enhanced stability, and maximum security compared to browser-based alternatives.
🛠️ Step 1: Download the Official Application
To begin, download Ledger Live Desktop from the official Ledger website. Always verify that you are using the official source to avoid malicious or counterfeit software.
After downloading:
Install the application on your computer.
Open Ledger Live Desktop.
Select Get Started.
You will then be guided through the secure setup process.
🔐 Step 2: Initialize or Restore Your Device
When launching Ledger Live for the first time, you will choose one of the following options:
Set up as new device
Restore from recovery phrase
If setting up a new device, your Ledger hardware wallet will generate a unique 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is created offline within the device and represents your master backup.
If restoring, enter your existing recovery phrase directly on the device — never on your computer.
📝 Secure Your Recovery Phrase
Your 24-word recovery phrase is the most important part of your crypto security.
Important guidelines:
Write it down on paper.
Store it securely offline.
Never take photos of it.
Never share it with anyone.
If your Ledger device is lost, stolen, or damaged, this recovery phrase allows you to restore your funds on a new Ledger device.
🔄 Step 3: Install Cryptocurrency Apps
Each blockchain network requires a dedicated app installed on your Ledger device.
Using the Manager section inside Ledger Live Desktop, you can:
Install apps for supported cryptocurrencies
Remove apps to free storage space
Update device firmware
Verify device authenticity
Your Ledger device must be connected and unlocked during this process.
💼 Step 4: Add Crypto Accounts
After installing the appropriate blockchain app, you can add an account for that cryptocurrency.
To add an account:
Go to the Accounts tab.
Click Add Account.
Select the cryptocurrency.
Confirm on your Ledger device.
Ledger Live will synchronize the account with the blockchain network and display your balance.
💱 Sending & Receiving Crypto Receive Crypto:
Select the desired account.
Click Receive.
Verify the address on your Ledger device screen.
Share the verified address with the sender.
Send Crypto:
Select the account.
Click Send.
Enter the recipient’s address and amount.
Confirm the transaction on your Ledger hardware wallet.
All outgoing transactions require physical confirmation on your device, ensuring maximum protection.
📊 Monitor Your Portfolio
Ledger Live Desktop provides a detailed portfolio overview, including:
Real-time account balances
Asset allocation breakdown
Performance history
Transaction records
The dashboard makes it easy to track your digital assets in one secure interface.
💎 Additional Features
Depending on supported regions and assets, Ledger Live Desktop also allows you to:
Buy cryptocurrency
Sell crypto assets
Swap supported tokens
Stake eligible cryptocurrencies
Earn rewards securely
All actions require hardware confirmation, keeping your private keys protected at all times.
🛡️ Advanced Security Features
Ledger Live Desktop offers multiple layers of protection:
Secure Element chip technology
Offline private key storage
PIN-protected device access
Genuine device verification
On-device transaction approval
Even if your computer is compromised, your private keys remain securely stored inside your Ledger hardware wallet.
⚙️ Keep Ledger Live Updated
Ledger frequently releases updates to enhance security, expand asset support, and improve performance. Always install updates directly through the official Ledger Live application to maintain optimal protection.
🚀 Start Your Secure Crypto Journey
Ledger Live Desktop® provides a secure and professional environment for managing digital assets. By combining hardware-level protection with a powerful desktop interface, it empowers you to take full control of your cryptocurrency safely.
Download the official Ledger Live Desktop application and begin managing your digital assets with confidence today. 🔐