Ledger® Live: Desktop | Getting Started with Ledger

In today’s digital world, security and control over your cryptocurrency assets are essential. That’s where Ledger® hardware wallets and the Ledger Live® desktop application come in. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned investor, Ledger Live Desktop is your central platform for managing crypto securely — right from your computer.

This guide will walk you through the steps to get started with Ledger Live Desktop, how to connect your Ledger device, install crypto apps, and begin managing, sending, receiving, and even staking your digital assets.

🔍 What Is Ledger Live® Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop is the official software application from Ledger that allows users to interface with their Ledger Nano S Plus®, Nano X®, or Ledger Stax® devices on their computer. The app enables you to:

  • Safely manage private keys offline
  • View your crypto portfolio
  • Install apps for various blockchains
  • Send, receive, buy, swap, and stake crypto

Compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux, Ledger Live Desktop is a secure, all-in-one solution for those who prefer managing their assets on a larger screen with full control.

🖥️ Step 1: Download Ledger Live Desktop

Begin by downloading the official app from the official Ledger website:

👉 Visit Ledger.com/Start
 From there, you’ll be directed to download the latest Ledger Live software for your operating system.

⚠️ Important: Avoid downloading Ledger Live from unofficial websites or third-party app stores. Only use links from Ledger.com to prevent malicious software.

🔌 Step 2: Connect Your Ledger Hardware Wallet

Once the app is installed:

  1. Launch Ledger Live Desktop.
  2. Plug in your Ledger Nano or Stax device via USB.
  3. Choose the option to Set up as a new device or Restore from recovery phrase if you’ve used Ledger before.
  4. Set up a secure PIN code on your device.
  5. Write down the 24-word recovery phrase shown on your Ledger. This phrase is the only way to recover your crypto if the device is lost or reset.

🛑 Do NOT share this phrase or store it online. Ledger will never ask for it.

✅ Step 3: Verify Device Authenticity

Ledger Live will now guide you through the process of verifying that your device is genuine. Ledger uses a secure authentication method to check that the hardware has not been tampered with.

Once verified, you’ll move on to using the app’s full suite of features.

💼 Step 4: Install Apps for Crypto Assets

Each cryptocurrency (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana) requires its own app to be installed on your Ledger device. From within Ledger Live Desktop:

  1. Navigate to Manager.
  2. Select and install the apps you need (e.g., Bitcoin app, Ethereum app).
  3. After installing, you can add accounts for each supported crypto.

Ledger supports more than 5,500 coins and tokens, including:

  • BTC
  • ETH and ERC-20 tokens
  • XRP, DOT, ADA, SOL, and more

📤 Step 5: Send and Receive Crypto Safely

With accounts set up, you can now send and receive assets:

  • To receive: Select a crypto account → Click “Receive” → Verify address on your device.
  • To send: Select an account → Click “Send” → Enter recipient’s address and amount → Confirm on your device.

All transactions require physical approval on the device, keeping your funds secure even if your computer is compromised.

📈 Extra Features in Ledger Live Desktop

Ledger Live Desktop isn’t just a wallet viewer — it’s a full control center for crypto asset management:

  • Portfolio Tracker: See real-time value of your holdings across all assets.
  • Buy Crypto: Purchase crypto using integrated partners via credit card or bank transfer.
  • Swap Coins: Exchange tokens directly from your Ledger wallet using decentralized and centralized swap options.
  • Staking Rewards: Stake supported assets like Ethereum, Tezos, or Polkadot and earn passive income directly from your Ledger wallet.
  • NFT Management: View and manage Ethereum-based NFTs securely (with supported devices and accounts).

🔐 Keep Ledger Live and Your Device Updated

To maintain optimal security:

  • Keep Ledger Live Desktop updated through the app settings
  • Regularly check for firmware updates on your Ledger device
  • Only connect your device to trusted computers and never use public USB ports

Enabling the Ledger Live password lock adds an additional layer of protection on your desktop app.

🆘 Help and Troubleshooting

If you need help at any stage, Ledger provides:

  • A built-in Help section in Ledger Live
  • A comprehensive Support Center at support.ledger.com
  • Tutorials, FAQs, and live chat for technical support

⚠️ Remember: Ledger will never message you first or ask for your recovery phrase. Stay cautious of impersonators on forums and social media.

🏁 Final Thoughts: Why Choose Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop offers a secure, transparent, and user-friendly interface to manage your crypto assets — all while keeping your private keys offline with your hardware wallet.

Whether you’re sending Bitcoin, staking Ethereum, or tracking your NFT collection, Ledger Live provides the tools you need in one unified platform.

👉 Download Ledger Live from Ledger.com/Start today and experience true crypto ownership, secured by you.