Ledger® Live: Desktop | Getting Started with Ledger

If you're new to Ledger or just bought a Ledger hardware wallet, Ledger Live Desktop is your main software to manage your crypto securely. It's simple to use and works with both the Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X. This guide explains how to get started with Ledger Live on your desktop step by step.

What Is Ledger Live?

Ledger Live is a free software application from Ledger. It allows you to manage your crypto wallets, install coin apps, check balances, send and receive cryptocurrency, and even grow your assets through staking or services.

You can use Ledger Live on:

  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux

It is the official companion app for your Ledger hardware wallet and works together with the device to protect your funds.

Key Features of Ledger Live Desktop

  • Manage 5,500+ crypto assets
  • Send and receive crypto
  • Check portfolio in real-time
  • Install and uninstall apps
  • Buy, sell, and swap crypto
  • Stake selected coins
  • Update your device firmware

Everything is done in a simple and user-friendly way.

Before You Begin

Make sure you have the following ready:

  • A Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X device
  • A USB cable to connect the device to your computer
  • Your recovery sheet (with the 24 words)
  • A secure computer with internet access

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

Step 1: Install Ledger Live

  1. Visit the official Ledger website on your computer.
  2. Download the version of Ledger Live Desktop for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
  3. Follow the installation instructions on your screen.
  4. Launch the app once installed.

Important: Always use the official site to avoid downloading fake software.

Step 2: Set Up Your Ledger Device

If you haven’t already set up your Ledger hardware wallet:

  1. Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the USB cable.
  2. Choose “Set up as new device” on the Ledger screen.
  3. Pick a PIN code using the device buttons.
  4. The device will show you 24 recovery words. Write them down carefully in the correct order.

Never take a photo or store your recovery phrase on your computer or phone. Keep it offline and safe.

Step 3: Initialize Ledger Live

When you open Ledger Live for the first time:

  1. Select “Get Started.”
  2. Choose your device model (Nano S Plus or Nano X).
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to connect and verify your device.
  4. Set up a password to protect your Ledger Live access (optional, but recommended).

Once verified, Ledger Live will detect your hardware wallet and link to it securely.

Step 4: Install Apps for Cryptocurrencies

To manage cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum, you’ll need to install apps on your Ledger device.

  1. In Ledger Live, go to the Manager tab.
  2. Connect your device and enter your PIN code.
  3. Browse available apps and click Install for the crypto you want (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
  4. Your device screen will show installation progress.

Each app allows you to manage that specific crypto.

Step 5: Add Accounts

Once the apps are installed, you need to add accounts in Ledger Live:

  1. Go to the Accounts tab.
  2. Click “Add Account.”
  3. Select the cryptocurrency.
  4. Follow the steps to open the app on your device and sync it.
  5. Your account will now appear in the Ledger Live interface.

You can now send, receive, or view balances for that account.

Step 6: Receive Cryptocurrency

To receive funds into your Ledger wallet:

  1. Go to Receive in Ledger Live.
  2. Select the account you want to receive into.
  3. Click Continue.
  4. Ledger Live will show your public address and ask you to verify it on your device.
  5. Confirm the address on your Ledger screen.
  6. Copy the address and send crypto from another wallet or exchange.

Double-check the address each time for safety.

Step 7: Send Cryptocurrency

To send funds:

  1. Click on Send in Ledger Live.
  2. Choose the account, paste the recipient’s address, and enter the amount.
  3. Confirm details on the screen.
  4. Your Ledger device will ask you to review and approve the transaction.
  5. Once approved, the transaction will be sent to the blockchain.

Step 8: Update Firmware & Ledger Live

Keeping your device firmware and Ledger Live software updated ensures maximum security.

  • To update firmware:
  • Go to Manager in Ledger Live.
  • If an update is available, follow the prompts to install.
  • To update Ledger Live:
  • The app will notify you of new versions. Click Update and follow the instructions.

Tips for Safe Use

  • Only download from the official Ledger website.
  • Never share your 24-word recovery phrase.
  • Always double-check addresses before sending funds.
  • Keep your Ledger device and computer secure.
  • Use Ledger Live only on trusted devices.

What Happens If You Lose Your Device?

Don’t worry. If you’ve saved your 24-word recovery phrase, you can recover your funds.

Just get a new Ledger device, and during setup, choose “Restore device from recovery phrase.” Enter your 24 words and your accounts and assets will be restored.

Conclusion

Using Ledger Live Desktop with your Ledger device gives you full control over your crypto, with strong security and a simple interface. Whether you're managing Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other coins, Ledger Live makes it easy to send, receive, and monitor your crypto portfolio from your computer.

By following these steps, you're now ready to safely explore the world of crypto – powered by Ledger.