Ledger Live®® Desktop — Getting Started | Official Ledger Wallet

Ledger Live® Desktop is the official application developed by Ledger to securely manage your digital assets with a Ledger hardware wallet. Designed for both beginners and experienced crypto users, Ledger Live Desktop provides a powerful yet simple interface to buy, sell, send, receive, stake, and monitor cryptocurrencies — all while keeping your private keys safely stored offline.

When paired with devices like the Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X, Ledger Live ensures that every transaction is verified directly on your physical device for maximum security.

🖥️ What is Ledger Live® Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop is the official companion software for Ledger hardware wallets. It allows users to:

Securely manage thousands of cryptocurrencies

Track real-time portfolio performance

Install and manage crypto apps

Stake supported digital assets

Buy, sell, and swap crypto through integrated partners

Manage NFTs on supported networks

Unlike web wallets or exchanges, Ledger Live works alongside a hardware wallet. Your private keys never leave the secure chip inside your Ledger device.

🚀 How to Get Started 1️⃣ Download Ledger Live Desktop

Download the official Ledger Live Desktop application from the official Ledger website only. The software is available for:

Windows

macOS

Linux

Avoid third-party downloads to prevent phishing or malware risks.

2️⃣ Install and Launch the Application

After installation, open Ledger Live and select “Get Started.” The setup wizard will guide you through the process.

3️⃣ Set Up or Connect Your Ledger Device

You will be prompted to choose one of the following:

Set up a new device

Restore from a 24-word recovery phrase

Connect an already-initialized device

If setting up a new device:

Create a secure PIN code

Carefully write down your 24-word recovery phrase

Confirm the recovery phrase on your device

⚠️ Important: Your recovery phrase is the only backup of your crypto assets. Never share it with anyone and never store it digitally.

4️⃣ Install Cryptocurrency Apps

Inside Ledger Live Desktop, go to the Manager section. From there, you can install apps for cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and many more.

Each cryptocurrency requires its own app installed on your Ledger device.

5️⃣ Add Accounts

After installing apps, navigate to Accounts → Add Account. Ledger Live will synchronize with your device and create secure accounts where you can manage funds.

You are now ready to send and receive crypto securely.

📊 Portfolio Management

Ledger Live Desktop provides a comprehensive dashboard where you can:

View total portfolio balance

Track asset performance in real time

Access transaction history

Monitor asset allocation

This centralized dashboard makes it easy to manage multiple cryptocurrencies in one place.

💼 Sending & Receiving Crypto 📥 Receiving Funds

Generate a receiving address directly inside Ledger Live and verify it on your Ledger device screen before sharing it.

📤 Sending Funds

Enter the recipient’s address and amount in Ledger Live. Then confirm the transaction details on your hardware wallet before approval.

Every outgoing transaction must be physically confirmed on the device — adding a critical security layer.

💎 Additional Features 🔄 Buy, Sell & Swap

Ledger Live integrates trusted third-party providers, allowing you to purchase or exchange crypto directly from the app.

📈 Staking

Earn rewards by staking supported cryptocurrencies. Ledger Live enables secure staking while maintaining self-custody of your assets.

🎨 NFT Management

View and manage supported NFTs directly within Ledger Live Desktop.

🛡️ Security Best Practices

To maintain maximum protection:

Only download Ledger Live from the official website

Never share your recovery phrase

Always verify transaction details on your device

Keep your Ledger device firmware updated

Use a strong PIN code

Ledger will never request your 24-word recovery phrase.

🔄 Regular Updates

Ledger continuously improves Ledger Live Desktop with enhanced security features, expanded asset support, and performance improvements. Always keep your app updated to benefit from the latest protections.

🌍 Why Choose Ledger Live® Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop offers:

Offline private key storage

Hardware-level transaction verification

Multi-asset support

Professional portfolio tracking

Integrated crypto services

User-friendly design

It is built for individuals who prioritize security, ownership, and full control over their digital assets.

📌 Final Thoughts

Ledger Live® Desktop is the official and secure way to manage your cryptocurrency using a Ledger hardware wallet. From initial setup to advanced portfolio management, the application provides everything needed to confidently navigate the crypto ecosystem.

With Ledger’s trusted security architecture and a streamlined desktop experience, Ledger Live Desktop remains one of the most reliable tools for long-term crypto protection and asset management. 🔐💻