Ledger® Live: Desktop | Getting started - Ledger Support®

Ledger® Live: Desktop — Getting started

A friendly, step-by-step guide to set up Ledger Live on your desktop and securely manage your crypto assets.

Overview

Ledger Live is the desktop app that lets you manage your Ledger hardware wallet and your cryptocurrency holdings from your computer. This guide walks you through the essentials: installing the app, connecting your device, adding accounts, sending and receiving crypto, and quick troubleshooting tips. The UI below uses bright, readable accents to highlight important actions so you’ll always know where to click.

Before you begin: make sure you have your Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or compatible model), your recovery phrase secured, and a trusted computer. Never share your 24‑word recovery phrase with anyone.

Quick checklist

Download Ledger Live for Windows, macOS, or Linux from the official Ledger website.
Have your Ledger device and USB cable ready.
Set up a strong device PIN directly on your Ledger hardware.
Store your recovery phrase offline in a safe place.

Get Ledger Live

Download & install

1. Download

Open your browser and visit the official Ledger downloads page. Choose the correct installer for your operating system (Windows .exe, macOS .dmg, or Linux AppImage/.deb).

2. Install

Run the installer and follow the on-screen prompts. On macOS you may need to allow the app in Security & Privacy settings. On Windows, grant permissions when prompted.

3. Open Ledger Live

Launch the app. On first run Ledger Live will present introductory screens that explain how it works and security basics.

4. Update firmware

If a firmware update is required for your Ledger device, Ledger Live will prompt you. Keep your recovery phrase close (but never enter it into your computer) and follow the device prompts exactly.

Connect your device & initialize

Use the supplied USB cable to connect your Ledger device to your desktop. Choose Set up as new device if you're initializing for the first time, or Restore from recovery phrase if you already have a recovery phrase.

Set up steps on the device

Choose a PIN code on the device — at least 4 digits (we recommend 6+).
Write down the 24-word recovery phrase on the supplied recovery sheet. Keep it offline and secure — this is the only backup of your funds.
Confirm the recovery phrase on the device by selecting the words shown.

Adding accounts in Ledger Live

Ledger Live organizes your holdings into accounts (Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, etc.). Follow these quick steps to add accounts:

Open Ledger Live and go to Accounts > Add account.
Select the cryptocurrency you want to add.
Follow the on-screen instructions — Ledger Live will detect your connected device and synchronize the account.

Tip: you can add multiple accounts for the same currency (e.g., several Ethereum accounts) for organizational flexibility.

Receiving and sending crypto

Receive

To receive funds: select the account, click Receive, connect and unlock your Ledger device, and verify the receiving address shown on the device screen. Always confirm the address on the device — never trust addresses shown only on your computer.

Send

To send funds: select the account, click Send, enter the recipient address and amount, then confirm the transaction details on your Ledger device. Transactions require physical confirmation on the hardware key.

Troubleshooting

Device not recognized: try a different USB cable, USB port, or restart Ledger Live.
Firmware update failed: retry with a direct cable connection and follow the on-screen instructions carefully.
App crashes: check for the latest Ledger Live update and system compatibility. Reinstall only from the official Ledger website.

FAQ

Is my recovery phrase safe if I use Ledger Live?

Yes — Ledger Live never asks for or stores your recovery phrase. All sensitive operations are confirmed on the device itself. Your recovery phrase must remain offline.

Can I use Ledger Live on multiple computers?

Yes. You can install Ledger Live on multiple trusted computers; your private keys remain on the hardware device, not on the computers.

What about mobile apps?

Ledger offers a mobile version of Ledger Live that pairs with certain devices (e.g., Nano X via Bluetooth). Use the desktop app for full management and firmware updates.