Getting Started with Ledger Live Desktop

Your complete guide to setting up and using Ledger Live to securely manage your cryptocurrency assets

Welcome to Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official desktop application for managing your Ledger hardware wallet. It serves as the central hub for all your cryptocurrency activities, allowing you to securely manage your assets, buy/sell/swap crypto, and grow your holdings through staking - all while your private keys remain protected by your hardware device.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process of getting started with Ledger Live, from initial setup to advanced features, ensuring you have a secure and seamless experience managing your digital assets.

Prerequisites Before You Start

Before diving into the setup process, make sure you have the following items ready:

💼

Ledger Hardware Wallet

Nano S, Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax

💻

Computer

Windows (10+), macOS (Big Sur 11+), or Linux (Ubuntu 18.04+)

🔌

USB Cable

The original cable that came with your device

🔐

Recovery Phrase

Your 24-word recovery phrase (if restoring)

Important Security Note

Your 24-word recovery phrase is the master key to all your cryptocurrency assets. Never share it with anyone, never take photos of it, and never enter it anywhere except directly on your Ledger device itself.

Step-by-Step Setup Process

Step 1: Download & Install Ledger Live

Begin by visiting the official Ledger website at https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live. Always verify you're on the correct website to avoid phishing attempts. Download the appropriate version for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux) and follow the installation instructions.

Step 2: Initialize Your Ledger Device

If your device is brand new, you'll need to set it up:

  • Connect your Ledger to your computer using the USB cable
  • Choose a secure PIN code (4-8 digits) to protect physical access to your device
  • Write down your 24-word recovery phrase on the provided recovery sheet in the exact order

If you're restoring an existing wallet, select "Restore from Recovery Phrase" and follow the on-screen instructions.

Step 3: Set Up Ledger Live

Open Ledger Live on your desktop. The application will guide you through the initial setup process. Choose "Get Started" and select whether you're setting up a new device or restoring an existing one. Ledger Live will then verify your device's genuineness - a critical security step to ensure you have an authentic, untampered device.

Step 4: Install Apps and Add Accounts

Your Ledger device operates using small applications for each cryptocurrency:

  • Navigate to the "My Ledger" tab in Ledger Live (with your device connected and unlocked)
  • Browse or search for the crypto apps you need (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.)
  • Click "Install" to add the applications to your Ledger device
  • Return to the "Accounts" tab and click "Add Account" to synchronize and discover your wallet addresses

Key Features and How to Use Them

📊 Portfolio Dashboard

View the total value and breakdown of all your cryptocurrency holdings in one comprehensive dashboard. Track performance over time with intuitive charts and graphs.

👛 Accounts Management

See individual balances and transaction history for each of your cryptocurrency accounts. Organize your assets with custom account labels and categories.

📤 Send Cryptocurrency

Securely send crypto to any address. Your Ledger device will verify and confirm all transaction details on its screen before approval, protecting against malware.

📥 Receive Cryptocurrency

Generate receiving addresses for any supported cryptocurrency. Always verify that the address shown in Ledger Live matches the one displayed on your device screen.

💱 Buy/Sell/Swap

Use Ledger Live's integrated partner services to purchase crypto directly to your wallet, sell for fiat currency, or swap between different cryptocurrencies.

🌱 Earn (Staking)

Grow your assets by staking supported cryptocurrencies like Ethereum, Solana, or Polkadot directly from the app to earn rewards while maintaining control of your keys.

Essential Security Tips

Protect Your Assets

Your Recovery Phrase is Sacred: This 24-word phrase is the master key to all your cryptocurrency. Store it securely offline, never digitize it, and never share it with anyone.
Always Verify on Device: When sending or receiving cryptocurrency, always double-check the transaction details and addresses on your Ledger's screen. The computer screen can be compromised; the device screen cannot.
Beware of Phishing: Only download Ledger Live from the official Ledger.com website. Ignore emails, messages, or ads claiming to be "Ledger Support" that ask for your recovery phrase or personal information.
Keep Software Updated: Regularly check the "Manager" in Ledger Live for firmware and app updates. These often include important security patches that protect against new threats.
Use a Strong PIN: Your device PIN should be unique and not easily guessable. Avoid using birthdays, sequences, or other predictable patterns.

Interactive Ledger Device Demo

Try this simulation to understand how to interact with your Ledger device during setup and transactions.

Welcome to Ledger