Ledger® Live: Desktop® — Getting Started | official Ledger …

stveejohn

— 4 min read

Introduction

Ledger® Live Desktop® is the official companion application for Ledger hardware wallets, designed to help users securely manage, buy, sell, stake, and monitor cryptocurrencies from one trusted interface. Whether you are new to crypto or an experienced investor, Ledger Live Desktop provides a secure, user-friendly way to interact with your digital assets while keeping your private keys offline.

This complete getting started guide explains how to download, install, set up, and use Ledger Live Desktop, including key features, supported assets, security best practices, and troubleshooting tips. If you are looking for the most reliable and official way to manage your Ledger device, this guide is for you.

What Is Ledger® Live Desktop®?

Ledger Live Desktop is a free desktop application developed by Ledger®, compatible with:

  • Ledger Nano S
  • Ledger Nano S Plus
  • Ledger Nano X

The application allows users to manage cryptocurrencies while keeping private keys protected by Ledger’s Secure Element chip. Ledger Live does not store private keys or recovery phrases, ensuring maximum security.

Key Functions of Ledger Live Desktop

  • Securely manage crypto accounts
  • Send and receive digital assets
  • Install and manage apps on your Ledger device
  • Buy, sell, swap, and stake crypto
  • Track portfolio performance in real time
  • Verify transactions on the hardware device

System Requirements for Ledger Live Desktop

Before installation, ensure your system meets the requirements.

Supported Operating Systems

  • Windows 10 or later (64-bit)
  • macOS 12 or later
  • Linux (64-bit)

Hardware Requirements

  • USB port (or Bluetooth for Nano X)
  • Internet connection
  • Ledger hardware wallet

How to Download Ledger® Live Desktop® (Official Method)

For security reasons, Ledger Live should only be downloaded from the official Ledger website.

Steps to Download Safely

  1. Visit the official Ledger website
  2. Navigate to Ledger Live
  3. Select Desktop
  4. Choose your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux)
  5. Download and install the application

⚠️ Security Tip: Never download Ledger Live from third-party websites, ads, or emails. Fake versions can steal your assets.

Installing Ledger Live Desktop

Windows Installation

  1. Open the downloaded .exe file
  2. Follow the installation prompts
  3. Launch Ledger Live after installation

macOS Installation

  1. Open the .dmg file
  2. Drag Ledger Live into the Applications folder
  3. Launch the app and approve security permissions if prompted

Linux Installation

  1. Download the AppImage
  2. Make the file executable
  3. Run Ledger Live from your system

Setting Up Ledger Live Desktop for the First Time

Once installed, Ledger Live guides you through setup.

Step 1: Choose Your Device

  • Select your Ledger model (Nano S, S Plus, or X)
  • Choose Set up as new device or Restore from recovery phrase

Step 2: Verify Device Authenticity

Ledger Live performs a genuine check to confirm your device is authentic and untampered.

Step 3: Create or Restore Wallet

  • New users create a 24-word recovery phrase
  • Existing users restore using their phrase

⚠️ Important: Never enter your recovery phrase on a computer, phone, or website. It should only be entered directly on the Ledger device.

Installing Crypto Apps on Your Ledger Device

Ledger Live Desktop allows you to install apps for supported cryptocurrencies.

How to Install Apps

  1. Connect your Ledger device
  2. Unlock it with your PIN
  3. Open Manager in Ledger Live
  4. Allow access on the device
  5. Install apps such as:
    • Bitcoin (BTC)
    • Ethereum (ETH)
    • Solana (SOL)
    • Cardano (ADA)
    • Polygon (MATIC)
    • XRP, Litecoin, and more

Ledger Live supports 5,500+ coins and tokens.

Adding Accounts in Ledger Live Desktop

After installing apps, you must add accounts.

Steps to Add an Account

  1. Open Accounts
  2. Click Add account
  3. Select the cryptocurrency
  4. Connect and confirm on your Ledger device
  5. Ledger Live synchronizes your blockchain data

Each account is tied directly to your hardware wallet for security.

Sending and Receiving Cryptocurrency

Receiving Crypto

  1. Select an account
  2. Click Receive
  3. Verify the address on your Ledger device
  4. Share the verified address

Sending Crypto

  1. Click Send
  2. Enter recipient address and amount
  3. Confirm transaction details on your Ledger device
  4. Approve physically on the device

🔐 Why this matters: Even if your computer is compromised, transactions cannot be approved without the physical device.

Buying, Selling, and Swapping Crypto

Ledger Live Desktop integrates trusted partners for crypto services.

Supported Features

  • Buy crypto with fiat currency
  • Sell crypto directly to your bank
  • Swap tokens without leaving Ledger Live

Availability depends on your country and local regulations.

Staking Crypto in Ledger Live Desktop

Ledger Live allows users to stake supported assets directly from their wallet.

  • Ethereum (ETH)
  • Solana (SOL)
  • Polkadot (DOT)
  • Cardano (ADA)
  • Tezos (XTZ)

Staking lets you earn rewards while maintaining full custody of your assets.

Portfolio Tracking and Analytics

Ledger Live Desktop includes a clean portfolio dashboard.

Features

  • Real-time balance updates
  • Asset allocation overview
  • Historical performance charts
  • Fiat currency conversion

No sensitive data is shared with Ledger servers.

Security Best Practices for Ledger Live Desktop

To stay safe, follow these essential rules:

  • Never share your 24-word recovery phrase
  • Ignore emails claiming your wallet is compromised
  • Keep Ledger Live updated
  • Use strong PIN codes
  • Verify all addresses on your device screen
  • Store your recovery phrase offline

Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Ledger Device Not Recognized

  • Use original USB cable
  • Try a different USB port
  • Restart Ledger Live and device

App Installation Errors

  • Update Ledger Live
  • Update device firmware
  • Free storage space by removing unused apps

Transaction Not Showing

  • Allow blockchain to synchronize
  • Clear cache in Ledger Live settings

Why Choose Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop stands out because it combines security, simplicity, and control:

  • Private keys stay offline
  • Open-source security architecture
  • Trusted by millions worldwide
  • Regular updates and new features
  • Official Ledger ecosystem integration

It is one of the safest ways to manage cryptocurrency long-term.

Conclusion

Ledger® Live Desktop® is the official, secure, and comprehensive solution for managing your Ledger hardware wallet. From setup and account management to staking and portfolio tracking, it gives users full control over their crypto without sacrificing security.

If you want a reliable way to manage digital assets while keeping private keys protected, Ledger Live Desktop is the industry standard. Always download from official sources, follow security best practices, and verify every transaction on your Ledger device.

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