Ledger® Live — Desktop: Getting started

A clear, colorful guide to installing Ledger Live on your desktop, pairing a Ledger device, and managing your crypto safely.

Introduction

Ledger Live is the desktop app that lets you manage your Ledger hardware device and all your crypto accounts in one secure place. This guide walks you through the essentials: downloading Ledger Live, connecting and configuring your Ledger device, adding accounts, sending and receiving assets, and best practices for security. The instructions below assume you are using a modern Windows, macOS, or Linux desktop.

Before you begin

Checklist:
  • A compatible desktop (Windows 10/11, macOS 10.15+, or a recent Linux distro).
  • A Ledger hardware device (Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, etc.) with a USB cable or Bluetooth (for Nano X).
  • Your 24-word recovery phrase kept offline and secure — never share it.

1. Download & install Ledger Live

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Get the app: Download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website only. Verify the download page URL and checksum if you can — this helps avoid tampered files.

2

Install: Run the installer and follow on-screen prompts. On macOS you may need to allow the app in Security & Privacy. On Windows, you might be prompted to install a driver.

2. Set up your Ledger device

3

Initial configuration: Power on your Ledger device and follow the device prompts to create a new wallet or restore an existing one. The device will display a 24-word recovery phrase — write it down exactly, in order. This phrase is your master key.

4

Security tip: Never enter your recovery phrase into a computer or phone. Store it offline in a safe place (metal backup is recommended for long-term durability).

3. Connect Ledger Live to your device

Open Ledger Live on your desktop, choose "Get started", then pick your Ledger model. Connect the device via USB (or pair via Bluetooth for Nano X) and confirm the connection on the device screen.

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Allow Ledger Manager: Ledger Live will ask to open the Ledger Manager app on your device — accept it to install official apps like Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.

4. Add accounts

Once your device is connected and apps are installed, go to Accounts > Add account. Choose the cryptocurrency (for example Bitcoin or Ethereum), open the corresponding app on your device, and Ledger Live will scan and add your accounts.

Multiple accounts:
You can add several accounts for the same currency (useful for separating balances).
Receive addresses:
Always verify the receive address on the device screen — that ensures it's coming from your Ledger hardware.
Portfolio:
Ledger Live displays portfolio value and performance over time — useful for tracking.

5. Send & receive

To receive, select the account, click "Receive", and verify the shown address matches the address on your Ledger device. To send, click "Send", enter the recipient address and amount, then confirm the transaction details on your device screen before approving.

Double-check: Transactions are irreversible. Always confirm amounts and addresses both in Ledger Live and on your device.

Security best practices

  • Never share your 24-word recovery phrase. Ledger Support will never ask for it.
  • Keep your device firmware updated via Ledger Live to benefit from security patches.
  • Use a strong PIN on the device and enable optional passphrase features only if you understand them.
  • Back up your recovery phrase in multiple safe, offline locations.

Troubleshooting & tips

If Ledger Live cannot detect your device: try a different USB cable/port, restart the app, or reboot your computer. Check the device screen for any prompts that require confirmation. If problems persist, consult official support channels.

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Resetting: Only reset your device if you have your recovery phrase safely stored. A reset wipes the device — you can later restore from your 24-word phrase.

FAQ

Can I use Ledger Live on multiple PCs? Yes — Ledger Live can be installed on other devices. Your crypto remains secure as long as your recovery phrase remains private.

Is Ledger Live custody? No — Ledger devices are non-custodial hardware wallets. You control the private keys (stored on your device) and Ledger Live is the interface.

Wrapping up

Ledger Live Desktop is a powerful, user-friendly companion for Ledger hardware devices. Follow the steps above, keep your recovery phrase offline, and you'll be set to manage crypto more confidently and securely. Happy managing!