Ledger Live Desktop — Install, Secure & Use

A short, straightforward guide to get Ledger Live running safely — install, protect your keys, manage crypto and transact with confidence.

1. Install Ledger Live (Quick)

Official download only. Never install from third‑party websites or links sent in messages.

Download: Visit the official Ledger website and download Ledger Live Desktop for Windows, macOS or Linux.
Run installer: Open the installer, follow prompts and allow system permissions if requested.
Open Ledger Live: Launch the app and choose Set up as new device or Restore device depending on whether you already own a Ledger hardware wallet.
Pair device: Connect your Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, etc.) via USB or Bluetooth (Nano X) and follow on‑screen instructions to confirm device connection and firmware updates.

2. Secure Setup (Essential)

Security is the top priority. These steps protect your private keys — the only way to control your crypto.

Create a PIN: Set a secure PIN on the hardware device itself. This protects against casual physical access.
Write down your Recovery Phrase: Your device will show a 24‑word recovery (seed) phrase during setup. Write it down on the provided card — never store it digitally or share it. This is the only backup of your private keys.
Firmware & app updates: Keep your Ledger device firmware and Ledger Live updated. Updates fix bugs and add protection; verify updates on the device screen before confirming.
Genuine device check: Ledger Live verifies device authenticity. Always confirm the message on your device display matches what Ledger Live shows.

Never enter your recovery phrase into apps, websites or share it. Ledger staff will never ask for it.

3. Restore / Recover

If you ever lose or replace your device, use your recovery phrase to restore accounts on a new Ledger hardware wallet or a compatible wallet that supports BIP39/BIP44 recovery.

4. Add Accounts & Manage

Add Accounts: In Ledger Live, choose Accounts > Add account, pick the cryptocurrency and follow prompts. Ledger Live synchronizes balances and transaction history (read‑only) from the blockchain.
Portfolio View: See all holdings in one dashboard with fiat value and change over time.
Receive: Generate a receive address from Ledger Live. Verify the address on your hardware device before receiving funds — always compare the address shown on the device to the app.
Send: Create a transaction in Ledger Live and confirm the amount and recipient on your device. Your private keys never leave the hardware wallet.

5. Extras: Staking, Swap & Manager

Ledger Live supports additional features like staking certain assets, using integrated swaps, and managing apps (the device’s small OS modules). Use these features within Ledger Live for a safer experience than external tools.

Key Features

Hardware security: Private keys stay on the device.

Recovery phrase: One backup that restores everything.

Portfolio: Multi‑asset overview and performance tracking.

Firmware validation: Signed updates and genuine device checks.

Device support: Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X and future models.

Pro tip: Keep a small written copy of your recovery phrase in two separate physical locations (e.g., safe + secure deposit box). Use tamper‑proof storage for long‑term hold.

Safety Checklist

Download from the official source.
Confirm device prompts before accepting.
Never type your recovery phrase online.
Use a strong PIN and keep the device firmware updated.

Simple Troubleshooting & Tips

Problems sometimes happen — here are fast fixes:

Device not recognized: Try a different USB cable/port or Bluetooth pairing (Nano X). Reboot Ledger Live if needed.
App update failed: Reconnect device and follow Ledger Live prompts. Do not enter recovery phrase to "fix" an update.
Forgot PIN: Resetting the device will clear it — you must restore from your recovery phrase after reset.
Suspicious messages: Ignore emails or chats requesting keys or seed words. Verify anything via the official website.

Why Ledger Live + Hardware Wallet?

Ledger Live combines a clean desktop app with the security of a hardware wallet so you get convenience without exposing private keys. That split between a friendly UI and offline key storage is the best way to manage crypto long‑term.