Ledger® Live: Desktop | Getting Started with Ledger®
Managing your cryptocurrency securely starts with the right tools. Ledger® Live: Desktop is the official companion application for Ledger® hardware wallets, designed to help you manage, track, and secure your crypto assets from your desktop computer. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced user, Ledger® Live gives you full control over your crypto portfolio with industry-grade security.
In this guide, you'll learn how to download, install, and get started with Ledger® Live on desktop, and explore its powerful features step by step.
What Is Ledger® Live: Desktop?
Ledger® Live is a desktop application that works with Ledger’s hardware wallets—Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X. It lets you manage your crypto assets in a secure and user-friendly environment. The application allows you to:
- Send and receive cryptocurrency
- View your portfolio performance
- Buy, sell, and swap coins
- Install apps for specific blockchains
- Stake supported assets
- Perform firmware and app updates on your device
Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, Ledger® Live Desktop offers a full-featured interface for day-to-day crypto management.
How to Download Ledger® Live on Desktop
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Go to the official Ledger® website to download the Ledger® Live app. Always ensure you're on the legitimate site to avoid downloading counterfeit software.
Step 2: Choose the Correct Version
Select your operating system:
- Windows 10 or later
- macOS 10.14 or later
- Linux distributions (Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora)
Click Download and wait for the installer to complete.
Step 3: Install the App
- Open the downloaded file
- Follow the installation prompts
- Launch Ledger® Live after installation
Initial Setup – Ledger® Live Desktop
Once you open the application, you’ll begin the onboarding process. Here’s how to set it up:
Step 1: Connect Your Ledger® Hardware Wallet
Plug your Ledger Nano S Plus or Nano X into your computer using a USB cable. Enter your PIN code on the device to unlock it.
Step 2: Choose Device Action
Select one of the following options:
- Set up as new device – For brand new wallets
- Restore device – If you’re restoring from a 24-word recovery phrase
- Already initialized – If your device is already set up
Follow the prompts based on your selection.
Step 3: Add Accounts
Once the device is recognized:
- Click Accounts on the sidebar
- Select Add Account
- Choose a cryptocurrency (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum)
- Allow Ledger® Live to install the corresponding blockchain app on your hardware wallet
Features of Ledger® Live Desktop
1. Portfolio Overview
View your total crypto balance, value changes, and asset distribution over time.
2. Send and Receive Crypto
Send or receive cryptocurrencies with ease. Ledger® Live ensures each transaction must be manually approved on your hardware wallet, ensuring security.
3. App & Firmware Management
Stay up to date by installing the latest versions of crypto apps and firmware directly through the app.
4. Swapping Assets
Swap one cryptocurrency for another using built-in services. You maintain full control over the transaction with offline key confirmation.
5. Staking
Stake coins like Ethereum, Tezos, or Polkadot and earn passive rewards directly through Ledger® Live.
6. Buy and Sell Crypto
Buy crypto using bank transfer or debit/credit card and have it sent directly to your Ledger-secured address.
Security Tips for Ledger® Live Desktop
- Never share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone. It is your only backup if your device is lost or damaged.
- Confirm all actions on your device – Never approve a transaction you don’t recognize.
- Always download updates from official sources – Never install software from links sent via email or message.
- Use a strong and unique PIN for your Ledger device.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Device not detected? Try a different USB port or cable.
- Ledger Live not syncing? Restart the app and make sure you're using the latest version.
- Forgot your PIN? Reset the device and restore it using your 24-word recovery phrase.
- App installation failed? Make sure the device has available memory and firmware is updated.
If problems persist, consult the official Ledger Support resources or community forums for help.
Conclusion
Ledger® Live: Desktop is an all-in-one solution for managing digital assets securely. By combining your Ledger hardware wallet with the Ledger® Live desktop application, you gain full control of your crypto without compromising security. With features like portfolio tracking, staking, app management, and secure transactions, it’s built to give you peace of mind in a complex digital landscape.