Ledger Live Desktop — Getting Started | Official Ledger Wallet
Ledger Live Desktop is the official application for managing your Ledger hardware wallet securely and efficiently. This guide walks you through getting started with Ledger Live Desktop, from installation to managing your cryptocurrency assets.
🔐 With Ledger Live Desktop and your Ledger device, your private keys never leave your hardware, keeping your crypto assets safe from hacks or phishing attacks.
1. What You’ll Need
Before getting started, make sure you have:
A Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Nano X)
A computer (Windows, macOS, or Linux) with internet access
A USB cable (or Bluetooth for Nano X)
A secure location for your recovery phrase
💡 Never share your recovery phrase or store it digitally. Keep it offline and secure.
2. Download and Install Ledger Live Desktop
Ledger Live Desktop is the official software for managing your wallet and crypto assets.
Download the latest version: 🔗 https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live
Follow the installation instructions for your operating system
Launch the application after installation
Ledger Live Desktop allows you to:
Initialize your Ledger device
Restore an existing wallet using your recovery phrase
Manage multiple accounts and cryptocurrencies
Install or update apps on your Ledger device
3. Connect Your Ledger Device
Connect your Ledger device to your computer via USB (or Bluetooth for Nano X).
Follow on-screen instructions to initialize your device or restore an existing wallet.
Set a secure PIN code to protect your device.
💡 All sensitive actions, such as PIN entry and transaction approvals, occur directly on the hardware device.
4. Secure Your Recovery Phrase
During initialization, Ledger Live will display a 24-word recovery phrase. This is essential for wallet backup and recovery.
Write down each word in order
Store the phrase in a safe, offline location
Never take a photo or save it digitally
📌 If lost, your recovery phrase cannot be recovered, and you may permanently lose access to your assets.
5. Manage Your Cryptocurrency Accounts
After initialization:
Open Ledger Live Desktop to access your accounts
Install apps for supported cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.)
Send, receive, and monitor your crypto portfolio
See supported cryptocurrencies here: 🔗 https://www.ledger.com/supported-crypto
Ledger Live Desktop also provides real-time portfolio tracking and transaction history, helping you manage your assets efficiently.
6. Security Best Practices
✔ Confirm all transactions on your Ledger device
✔ Keep Ledger Live Desktop and device firmware updated
✔ Never share your recovery phrase or PIN
✔ Only use official Ledger software and websites
Learn more about Ledger security here: 🔗 https://www.ledger.com/security
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1️⃣ How do I start using Ledger Live Desktop?
Download Ledger Live Desktop from Ledger’s official site, connect your device, and follow the on-screen instructions to create or restore your wallet.
2️⃣ Can I recover my wallet if my Ledger device is lost or damaged?
Yes. Use your 24-word recovery phrase to restore access on a new Ledger device or compatible wallet.
3️⃣ Is Ledger Live Desktop free to use?
Yes. Ledger Live Desktop is free. You only pay standard blockchain fees when sending cryptocurrencies.
4️⃣ What should I do if my device is not recognized?
Ensure your device is connected properly, firmware is updated, and Ledger Live Desktop is installed from the official site. Restart the app or computer if needed.
5️⃣ Are my funds safe using Ledger Live Desktop?
Yes. Private keys remain on your Ledger hardware wallet, and all transactions must be confirmed on the device. Ledger Live Desktop only facilitates communication between your device and the application.
Final Thoughts
Ledger Live Desktop provides a secure and user-friendly way to manage your Ledger hardware wallet. By combining Ledger Live Desktop with your hardware device, you can confidently manage your crypto portfolio while keeping your private keys offline and secure.
Always keep your recovery phrase safe, confirm transactions on the device, and download software only from official Ledger sources. With Ledger Live Desktop, you’re ready to start managing your cryptocurrency securely.