Ledger® Live Desktop — Getting Started with Your Device

A detailed, practical walkthrough to install Ledger Live Desktop, set up your Ledger hardware wallet, manage accounts, transact safely, and troubleshoot typical issues. Ideal for new users and those returning to hardware custody.

Overview

Ledger Live Desktop is the official application that serves as the management layer for Ledger hardware wallets (for example, Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X). It provides an easy-to-use interface for installing blockchain apps on your device, adding accounts, sending and receiving assets, staking supported cryptocurrencies, and applying firmware updates — while ensuring your private keys remain isolated on the hardware.

In this guide you’ll find step-by-step instructions designed to minimize risk during setup and everyday use. Follow each step carefully and treat your recovery phrase as the single most important secret.

Why choose Ledger Live Desktop?

  • Hardware-backed security: Private keys never leave your device; the desktop app only transmits unsigned transactions for on-device confirmation.
  • Centralized management: Manage multiple accounts, track portfolio value, and receive updates in one place.
  • Official updates: Firmware and app updates are distributed through Ledger Live, reducing the risk of tampered installs.
  • Integrations: Connect to Web3 wallets and third-party services safely by approving operations on your device.

Before you begin — prerequisites

  1. Purchase a Ledger device from Ledger’s official store or an authorized reseller; avoid second-hand units.
  2. Use a trusted computer (avoid public or shared machines for setup and high-value operations).
  3. Have a stable internet connection for downloads and updates.
  4. Keep a pen and the recovery sheet or a metal backup ready to record your recovery phrase offline.
Security tip: Never type your recovery phrase into a computer or phone. Paper or metal backups kept offline are best.

Download and install Ledger Live Desktop

Get the official installer

Open your browser and visit ledger.com/ledger-live. Choose the Desktop download and select the installer that matches your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux). Avoid links from unsolicited emails or social channels.

Run the installer

  1. Run the downloaded file and follow the on-screen prompts for your OS.
  2. On first launch, Ledger Live will offer a short setup wizard describing privacy and optional analytics. Review choices and continue.
Optional: verify checksums or signatures if you want additional assurance that the installer is genuine.

Initialize or restore your Ledger device

Connect your Ledger device to the computer using the supplied USB cable and unlock it when prompted.

Set up as a new device

  1. Choose Set up as new device in Ledger Live.
  2. Create a secure PIN code on the device (avoid simple sequences such as 1234).
  3. The device generates a 24-word recovery phrase (write it down in order). Confirm selected words as prompted.

Restore an existing wallet

If you already have a recovery phrase from a previous wallet, choose Restore from recovery phrase and enter the words in the exact order. The device will derive accounts and keys accordingly.

Warning: Anyone with your recovery phrase can restore and control your funds. Store it offline and never share it.

Install blockchain apps

Ledger devices use small on-device apps to support each cryptocurrency. To install:

  1. Open Ledger Live and go to the Manager tab while your device is connected and unlocked.
  2. Browse available apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.) and click Install for the ones you need.

Apps are lightweight and may be removed and reinstalled without losing access to funds; keys are derived from your recovery phrase, not from installed apps.

Add accounts and sync

With required apps installed, add accounts to Ledger Live:

  1. Go to Accounts > Add account.
  2. Select the coin and follow the prompts; confirm the action on your device where requested.
  3. Ledger Live will scan the blockchain and list balances and recent transactions.

Repeat for each asset you want to manage. Accounts in Ledger Live are read-only views until you sign transactions on the device.

Send and receive crypto safely

Receive

  1. Select an account and click Receive.
  2. Ledger Live displays an address; verify that the same address appears on your Ledger device display before sharing it.

Send

  1. Click Send, enter destination and amount in Ledger Live, then validate the transaction.
  2. Your Ledger device will show the transaction details (recipient, amount, fees). Verify these on-device and approve to sign.
The on-device confirmation is the final authority: malware on your computer cannot change the text shown on the hardware screen.

Key features of Ledger Live

  • Buy & Swap: Integrated partners let you buy or swap assets without exposing keys.
  • Staking: Stake supported tokens and manage rewards directly from the app.
  • Portfolio tracking: View aggregated holdings and historical performance.
  • Third-party integrations: Connect to wallets such as MetaMask for Web3 use while confirming transactions on-device.

Security best practices

  1. Never share your recovery phrase. Ledger support will never ask for it.
  2. Store backups offline: Use secure physical backups (paper in a safe or metal plate) kept in different locations if appropriate.
  3. Use a strong PIN: Choose a PIN you remember but others cannot guess.
  4. Keep software updated: Apply Ledger Live and firmware updates promptly.
  5. Use trusted machines: Avoid public computers for large or frequent transactions.
  6. Consider passphrases: Advanced users can enable a passphrase to create hidden wallets — understand that losing the passphrase renders that wallet unrecoverable.

Troubleshooting common issues

  • Device not detected: Try a different USB cable/port and ensure the device is unlocked.
  • App install errors: Close Ledger Live, reconnect the device, and retry; ensure sufficient on-device space.
  • Firmware update fails: Reboot and attempt the update again in bootloader mode if necessary.
  • Missing balances: Confirm you’ve installed the correct app and rescan the account.

If problems persist, consult the official Ledger Support site at support.ledger.com and do not share your recovery phrase when requesting help.

Advanced tips

  • Use separate accounts to segment funds for budgeting or security reasons.
  • Test smart contract interactions with a small amount before committing larger sums.
  • Consider air-gapped workflows or secondary devices for very large holdings.

Conclusion

Ledger Live Desktop combined with a Ledger hardware wallet is a robust solution for self-custody. The most critical elements are secure setup, offline recovery backups, and always verifying transaction details on your hardware device. Start with small transactions while you learn the workflow, keep everything updated, and use the protection layers Ledger offers to manage your crypto confidently.