Ledger® Live: Desktop | Getting Started with Ledger

Ledger® Live: Desktop is the official application from Ledger, designed to give users a secure, intuitive, and complete interface for managing their cryptocurrency assets. Whether you're holding Bitcoin, Ethereum, or thousands of other supported assets, Ledger Live pairs with your Ledger hardware wallet to keep your private keys safe and your transactions secure.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started with Ledger Live Desktop — from downloading the app to setting up your device and using its powerful features.

1. What Is Ledger Live?

Ledger Live is a companion app for Ledger hardware wallets like the Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X. It’s available for both desktop and mobile, but this guide focuses on the desktop version, which offers the same high-level security with a more robust user interface.

Ledger Live allows you to:

  • Add and manage multiple cryptocurrency accounts
  • Send and receive crypto securely
  • Track your portfolio in real time
  • Buy, sell, and swap assets
  • Stake supported tokens to earn rewards
  • Install apps for different blockchains on your Ledger device

The application integrates directly with your hardware wallet, ensuring all sensitive operations are physically confirmed on the device itself.

2. Downloading Ledger Live

To begin, visit the official Ledger website at From there, choose the version that matches your operating system — Windows, macOS, or Linux.

Security Tip: Always download Ledger Live from the official site to avoid malware or phishing scams. Do not trust download links from third-party websites, emails, or forums.

3. Installing and Launching

Once you download the correct file for your system, run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions. After installation, launch the Ledger Live application and click “Get Started.”

You’ll be asked whether you want to set up a new Ledger device or connect an existing one. Choose the option that fits your situation.

4. Setting Up Your Ledger Device

If you're setting up a new Ledger device (Nano S Plus or Nano X), the application will guide you through the following steps:

  • Connect your Ledger device to your computer via USB (or Bluetooth, if using Nano X).
  • Choose to create a new wallet.
  • Set up a secure PIN code directly on the device.
  • Generate and write down your 24-word recovery phrase.
Important: Your recovery phrase is the only way to recover your wallet if your device is lost or reset. Store it offline in a safe location. Never share it, photograph it, or store it digitally.

5. Installing Apps and Adding Accounts

Each cryptocurrency has its own app that must be installed on your Ledger device. For example, to use Bitcoin, you’ll install the Bitcoin app through Ledger Live. Once installed, you can add a Bitcoin account to your dashboard.

Ledger Live supports a wide range of assets including:

  • Bitcoin (BTC)
  • Ethereum (ETH)
  • Solana (SOL)
  • Polkadot (DOT)
  • Cardano (ADA)
  • Binance Smart Chain (BNB)
  • Thousands of ERC-20 and BEP-20 tokens

Each account is managed securely, and all transactions require confirmation on your physical device.

6. Using Ledger Live Features

Ledger Live is more than just a wallet. It’s a full-featured portfolio and transaction manager. Key features include:

  • Send & Receive: Manage crypto transfers with on-device verification to ensure security.
  • Buy & Sell: Purchase cryptocurrencies directly via third-party partners integrated into the app.
  • Swap: Instantly exchange supported assets without leaving the Ledger ecosystem.
  • Stake: Participate in staking for assets like Tezos (XTZ), Solana (SOL), and Polkadot (DOT) to earn passive income.
  • Portfolio Tracking: Monitor your holdings, performance, and asset allocation in real-time.

7. Security and Best Practices

Ledger is built around the concept of self-custody. This means you are in full control — and full responsibility — for your crypto.

Here are essential tips to keep your wallet safe:

  • Keep your recovery phrase offline and never share it.
  • Always verify that you’re using the official Ledger website and app.
  • Confirm every transaction directly on your Ledger device.
  • Regularly update your Ledger Live software and device firmware.
  • Avoid connecting your wallet to unknown or public computers.

8. Need Help?

If you encounter any issues during setup or while using Ledger Live, visit the official Ledger Support Center at There, you’ll find:

  • User guides and video tutorials
  • Common troubleshooting tips
  • Firmware update instructions
  • Live chat and ticket support
Reminder: Ledger support will never ask for your recovery phrase. If someone does, it’s a scam.

Conclusion

Ledger Live: Desktop provides a secure, intuitive way to manage your crypto with full control. By combining a trusted hardware wallet with powerful software, you gain peace of mind, knowing your assets are protected by the highest standards in the industry.

Start your journey today by downloading Ledger Live and setting up your device at Ledger.com/start.

Your crypto. Your keys. Your Ledger.