Ledger® Live: Desktop | Getting Started with Ledger

Welcome to Ledger® Live: Desktop – your all-in-one crypto management platform for securely handling Bitcoin, Ethereum, NFTs, and thousands of other digital assets. With Ledger Live and your Ledger hardware wallet, you're in full control of your crypto journey. This guide will help you get started on desktop step-by-step.

What Is Ledger® Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application for your Ledger Nano X or Ledger Nano S Plus hardware wallet. It offers a secure and easy-to-use interface to manage your crypto assets while keeping your private keys offline and safe.

With Ledger Live Desktop, you can:

  • Set up your Ledger hardware wallet

  • Install blockchain apps for supported cryptocurrencies

  • Add and manage accounts

  • Buy, sell, send, and receive crypto

  • Stake coins for rewards

  • Explore Web3 and NFT tools

  • Access DeFi platforms securely

Why Use Ledger Live on Desktop?

Here’s what makes the desktop version powerful:

✅ Full-size display for better visibility and management
✅ Highest compatibility with features and apps
✅ Works on Windows, macOS, and Linux
✅ Secure USB connection to Ledger device
✅ Frequent updates and added support for new coins and apps

Step-by-Step: Getting Started with Ledger Live Desktop

Step 1: Download Ledger Live

  • Visit the official Ledger website

  • Go to the Download section

  • Choose your operating system:

    • Windows (.exe)

    • macOS (.dmg)

    • Linux (.AppImage or .deb)

⚠️ Only download from the official Ledger site to avoid scams or fake apps.

Step 2: Install the Application

  1. Open the downloaded file

  2. Follow the installation instructions for your OS

  3. Launch Ledger Live once installed

  4. Click “Get Started” to begin the setup

Step 3: Choose Your Setup Option

Ledger Live gives you three choices:

  • Set up a new Ledger device

  • Connect an already initialized device

  • Restore from recovery phrase

If you’re starting fresh, choose “Set up a new device.”
If you’ve used Ledger before, connect and continue.

Step 4: Initialize Your Ledger Hardware Wallet

For new users:

  1. Choose a secure PIN on your device

  2. Write down your 24-word recovery phrase on the provided sheet

  3. Confirm a few words to verify your backup

  4. Complete device setup

🛑 Never share or digitize your recovery phrase. Store it safely offline.

Step 5: Verify Your Device

Ledger Live will check if your device is authentic.

  • Plug in your Ledger

  • Unlock it with your PIN

  • Confirm on-screen verification

  • Proceed once verified as genuine

Step 6: Install Coin Apps

To manage specific cryptocurrencies:

  1. Go to the Manager section

  2. Connect and unlock your Ledger

  3. Install apps like:

    • Bitcoin

    • Ethereum

    • Solana

    • Polygon

  4. Apps load directly onto your Ledger device

Each app allows secure interaction with that blockchain.

Step 7: Add Crypto Accounts

  1. Open Accounts tab

  2. Click “Add Account”

  3. Choose your coin (e.g., Ethereum)

  4. Connect your Ledger and verify

  5. The account will be added to your dashboard

Accounts track balances and allow transactions.

Step 8: Receive and Send Crypto

To Receive:

  1. Open the account (e.g., Ethereum)

  2. Click Receive

  3. Connect and verify the address on your Ledger screen

  4. Use that address to receive funds

✅ Always double-check the address on your Ledger device.

To Send:

  1. Click Send

  2. Paste the recipient address and amount

  3. Confirm details

  4. Sign the transaction on your Ledger device

This process protects you from fake or altered transactions.