Ledger Live Desktop — Install, Secure & Use crypto

A clean, professional walkthrough to install Ledger Live Desktop, secure your Ledger hardware wallet, and confidently manage, send, swap, and stake crypto — written for beginners and busy pros who want fast clarity.

Quick summary — what you'll learn

This page helps you: 1) download & install Ledger Live Desktop, 2) initialize and secure your Ledger device, 3) add accounts and manage assets, and 4) follow best practices to keep funds safe. Follow each short step and you’ll be ready for your first secure transaction.

Install Ledger Live Desktop (5 minutes)

1

Download from the official site

Open Ledger.com/Start and choose Ledger Live Desktop for macOS, Windows, or Linux. Only download from the official page to avoid phishing copies.

2

Install the application

Run the downloaded installer and follow on-screen prompts. Grant only required permissions; Ledger Live does not need access to sensitive system files.

3

Open Ledger Live

Create a new profile or restore an existing wallet. Ledger Live will guide you to connect your Ledger hardware device to complete setup and updates.

4

Follow the on-device prompts

Confirm actions directly on your Ledger hardware screen. Never approve requests you don't recognize — the device is the final authority for signing transactions.

Secure it right — essential practices

Security is simple when it’s consistent. These four principles reduce risk dramatically:

  • Keep the recovery phrase offline. Write the 24-word phrase on paper or a metal backup. Never store it in cloud storage, email, or screenshots.
  • Verify device authenticity. Check tamper seals and follow the unboxing flow in Ledger Live. If anything is off, contact official support.
  • Update firmware and apps. Use Ledger Live to install updates; they patch security and add features.
  • Confirm everything on the device. Always approve transactions and addresses on the hardware screen — not only in the app.

Manage & use crypto — common tasks

Ledger Live Desktop combines safety with practical features for daily crypto use:

View balances

See multiple accounts and asset balances in one dashboard. Balances are read-only until you sign with the device.

Send & receive

Create a receive address from Ledger Live and confirm on the device. To send, enter the amount in the app and confirm the transaction details on the hardware screen.

Swap & buy

Use integrated partners to buy crypto or swap between assets without exposing private keys. Partner services appear inside Ledger Live for convenience.

Staking & earnings

Stake supported assets directly in Ledger Live to earn rewards — all while keeping keys offline and secure.

Manage apps

Install or remove blockchain apps on your Ledger device using Ledger Live. Each app enables support for a particular chain or token family.

Multiple device support

Use Ledger Live with more than one Ledger device. Each device holds its own keys and can be managed from the same desktop app.

Troubleshooting & tips

Small problems often have quick fixes:

  • Device not detected: Try a different USB cable, a different port, or reboot the computer. Avoid USB hubs when possible.
  • Software update failed: Reconnect the device and follow Ledger Live prompts. If an update stalls, contact official support before forcing anything.
  • Forgotten PIN: Use your recovery phrase to restore your wallet to a new device. Your funds live on the blockchain — recovery phrase restores access.
  • Suspicious emails or links: Ledger will never ask for your 24-word phrase. Treat unexpected emails and links as phishing attempts.

Practical checklist before your first large transfer

  • Confirm Ledger Live download came from ledger.com/start.
  • Verify device firmware is up to date.
  • Perform a small test transfer first.
  • Store at least one offline backup of your recovery phrase in a secure location.

Can I recover funds if my device is lost?

Yes — if you have your 24-word recovery phrase, you can restore your wallet on a new Ledger device or any compatible wallet. Protect that phrase as you would cash.

Are third-party wallets supported?

Ledger Live supports many flows natively, and you can link compatible third-party wallets while keeping your keys on the device. Confirm integrations in official documentation.