Ledger® Live: Desktop® — Getting Started™
Ledger® Live: Desktop® — Getting Started™ is the essential guide for users who want to securely manage their cryptocurrency using Ledger’s official desktop application. Designed to work hand-in-hand with Ledger hardware wallets, Ledger Live Desktop allows you to store, send, receive, stake, and manage digital assets while keeping your private keys offline and fully protected.
Whether you’re new to crypto or upgrading your security setup, this guide will help you understand how Ledger Live Desktop works and how to connect your wallet safely.
What Is Ledger® Live: Desktop®?
Ledger® Live: Desktop® is the official software interface for Ledger hardware wallets. Unlike browser wallets or centralized exchanges, Ledger Live ensures that sensitive information—especially private keys—never leaves your physical device.
Through Ledger Live Desktop, users can securely connect their Ledger hardware wallet and manage thousands of supported cryptocurrencies from one intuitive dashboard. The application is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it accessible for most users worldwide.
You can download the application directly from the official Ledger website: 👉 https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live
Why Use Ledger® Live: Desktop®?
The main reason users choose Ledger Live Desktop is security. Every transaction must be physically approved on your Ledger device, adding a powerful layer of protection against malware, phishing, and unauthorized access.
Key advantages include:
Offline storage of private keys
Direct device verification for transactions
Portfolio tracking in real time
Integrated crypto services
Regular security updates from Ledger
For anyone serious about crypto security, Ledger® Live: Desktop® — Getting Started™ is a smart first step.
System Requirements Before You Start
Before installing Ledger Live Desktop, make sure your setup meets these basic requirements:
A computer running Windows, macOS, or Linux
A Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S Plus or Nano X)
USB cable for device connection
Stable internet connection for syncing blockchain data
Meeting these requirements ensures a smooth setup and stable performance.
How to Download and Install Ledger Live Desktop
Getting started is simple and secure:
Visit the official download page: https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live
Choose the version that matches your operating system
Download and install the Ledger Live Desktop application
Open the app and click Get Started
From here, the app will guide you step by step through the setup process.
How to Connect Your Ledger Device
Once Ledger Live Desktop is installed, the next step is to connect your Ledger hardware wallet:
Plug your Ledger device into your computer using a USB cable
Unlock the device using your PIN code
Open Ledger Live Desktop
Select your Ledger device model
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete verification
This secure connect process ensures that Ledger Live can communicate with your device without ever accessing your private keys.
Setting Up or Restoring a Wallet
During Ledger® Live: Desktop® — Getting Started™, you’ll choose one of two options:
Set up a new wallet – Ideal for first-time users
Restore an existing wallet – Use your 24-word recovery phrase
If you’re creating a new wallet, Ledger will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. Write it down on paper and store it offline.
⚠️ Important: Never enter your recovery phrase online or share it with anyone. Ledger Live will never ask for it.
Adding Cryptocurrency Accounts
After setup, you can add crypto accounts to Ledger Live Desktop:
Open Ledger Live Desktop
Navigate to Accounts
Click Add Account
Choose a cryptocurrency
Confirm the action on your Ledger device
Once added, you’ll be able to view balances, transaction history, and portfolio performance instantly.
Key Features of Ledger Live Desktop
Ledger Live Desktop offers a full suite of tools, including:
Portfolio overview to track total asset value
Send and receive crypto securely
Buy, sell, and swap assets via trusted partners
Staking options for supported coins
App management for installing blockchain apps
All features require physical confirmation on your Ledger device, ensuring maximum security.
Security Tips for Safe Usage
To get the most out of Ledger® Live: Desktop® — Getting Started™, follow these best practices:
Always download Ledger Live from the official site
Double-check URLs before you connect your wallet
Keep Ledger Live and firmware up to date
Never approve transactions you don’t recognize
Beware of phishing emails pretending to be Ledger support
Good security habits are just as important as good tools.
Final Thoughts
Ledger® Live: Desktop® — Getting Started™ provides a secure, user-friendly way to manage cryptocurrency with confidence. By allowing users to safely connect their Ledger hardware wallet and control assets directly from their desktop, Ledger Live delivers both convenience and industry-leading security.
If you’re serious about protecting your crypto, starting with Ledger Live Desktop is one of the best decisions you can make.