Ledger® Live: Desktop

Your secure gateway to managing crypto assets and DeFi — getting started guide.

Ledger Live Desktop is the official companion application for your Ledger hardware wallet. It allows you to securely buy, sell, swap, and track your digital assets while keeping your private keys offline [citation:1][citation:7]. Unlike traditional wallets, there is no email or password login — your device is the key.

Download Ledger Live Desktop →

Windows 10+macOS 12+Linux Ubuntu 20.04+

Step-by-Step Setup

Follow these instructions carefully. Always ensure you are downloading from the official Ledger website to avoid counterfeit software [citation:3][citation:7].

1. Download and Install: Visit the official Ledger website and download the desktop version compatible with your operating system. Run the installer and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation [citation:1][citation:6].
2. Connect Your Device: Use the provided USB cable to connect your Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S Plus, Nano X, Flex, or Stax) to your computer. Ledger Live will automatically detect the device [citation:2][citation:4].
3. Set Up or Restore: If using a new device, select "Set up as new device" and choose a PIN code directly on the hardware. Your device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. Write this down on paper and store it securely offline [citation:1][citation:7]. If you already have a recovery phrase, select "Restore" and enter it using your device [citation:4].
4. Verify Authenticity: Ledger Live will prompt you to verify your device is genuine. Press both buttons on your device when prompted to allow the authenticity check. Only genuine devices can connect to Ledger's secure servers [citation:2][citation:4].
5. Install Crypto Apps: Navigate to the "Manager" section within Ledger Live. Here, you can install applications for specific cryptocurrencies (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) onto your hardware wallet [citation:1].
6. Add Accounts: Go to the "Accounts" tab, click "Add account," and select the cryptocurrency you wish to manage. Follow the prompts to sync your accounts and view your portfolio [citation:1][citation:5].

⚠️ Critical Security Warning: Never share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone. Ledger will never ask for it. Entering your phrase online or into a computer can result in permanent loss of funds. Always verify transaction details on your device screen before approving [citation:3][citation:7].

Managing Your Portfolio

Once your accounts are added, the dashboard provides a comprehensive overview of your crypto holdings. You can track real-time balances, monitor transaction history, and view performance charts. All transactions must be physically confirmed on your Ledger device, ensuring that even if your computer is compromised, your assets remain safe [citation:5][citation:7].

🛡️ Security Best Practices

• Only download Ledger Live from the official website (ledger.com).
• Keep your device firmware and Ledger Live application updated.
• Store your recovery phrase offline in a secure, fireproof location.
• Never take digital photos or screenshots of your recovery phrase.
• Confirm every transaction on your device's screen before pressing both buttons to approve [citation:3][citation:7].

Troubleshooting Connection Issues

If your device is not detected, try using a different USB cable or port. Ensure you are using the original cable provided in the box. For Bluetooth-enabled devices (Nano X, Stax, Flex), ensure Bluetooth is enabled in your computer's settings and within Ledger Live. If the app freezes, close and restart it, then reconnect your device [citation:3].

This is an informational guide. For the most up-to-date official documentation, visit Ledger Support. Ledger® and Ledger Live™ are trademarks of Ledger SAS.