Ledger® Live
Desktop • Getting Started with Ledger

Ledger® Live: Desktop — Getting Started with Ledger

Welcome to Ledger Live Desktop — the official app to manage your crypto safely when paired with your Ledger hardware wallet. This colorful, practical guide walks you through downloading Ledger Live, pairing your device, performing your first transactions, and following the security habits that keep your funds secure. Whether you’re new to hardware wallets or moving from another app, this page is your starting point.

Hardware-Backed Keys

Private keys remain stored in your Ledger device. Approve every transaction on-device so malware cannot hijack signatures.

Portfolio View

Track balances, view performance charts, and manage multiple accounts across dozens of blockchains from one app.

Buy, Swap & Stake

On-ramp and off-ramp via partners, swap tokens directly, and stake supported assets to earn rewards — all while keeping custody of your keys.

Step 1 — Download & Verify

Go to the official Ledger website and download Ledger Live for your operating system. Always check the URL and verify checksums/signatures when provided. Authentic installs protect you from tampered copies.

Step 2 — Install & Open

Run the installer and follow on-screen prompts. When you first open Ledger Live you'll be prompted to create a new portfolio or restore an existing one. Ledger Live stores account metadata locally; your seed remains on the device.

Step 3 — Pair Your Ledger Device

Connect your Ledger Nano S / Nano X via USB (or Bluetooth if supported). Confirm the pairing request on the device screen. Ledger Live will read public account data; signing still happens on-device only.

Step 4 — Add Accounts & Do a Test Transfer

Add accounts for Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other supported coins. Send a small test amount to a trusted address first and always confirm the destination and amount on your Ledger device's screen before approving.

Step 5 — Explore Advanced Tools

Use staking to earn rewards, set up exchange partners for buys/sells, check exportable reports for taxes, and enable optional passphrase wallets for extra account isolation if needed.

Security Best Practices

  • Buy Ledger devices only from official channels.
  • Write down your recovery phrase on the supplied sheet and store it offline — never photograph it or save it digitally.
  • Always verify transaction details on your Ledger device screen before approving.
  • Keep Ledger Live and device firmware up to date via official prompts.
  • Avoid phishing sites — type the URL manually and watch for lookalikes.
  • Consider using a passphrase for hidden wallets if you require stronger compartmentalization.
On-device Approval Recovery Phrase Firmware Updates Official Downloads

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Ledger Live free?
Yes. Ledger Live is free to download and use. You need a Ledger hardware wallet to sign transactions and hold private keys securely.
Q: What if I lose my Ledger device?
Your funds are still recoverable with your recovery phrase — use it to restore on a new Ledger device. If the seed is lost or stolen, take action immediately to move funds to a fresh wallet.
Q: Can I use Ledger Live without my device?
You can use watch-only features to monitor accounts, but signing transactions requires the physical Ledger device.