Ledger® Live: Desktop® — Getting Started


Ledger Live Desktop is the official companion application for Ledger hardware wallets, designed to make managing your cryptocurrency simple, secure, and efficient. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned crypto investor, this guide will walk you through every essential step — from installation to advanced features — to help you get started with confidence.

🔹 What is Ledger Live?

Ledger Live is an all-in-one crypto management platform developed by Ledger®. It connects seamlessly with your Ledger hardware wallet (such as Ledger Nano X or Nano S Plus) to help you buy, sell, stake, swap, and monitor your crypto assets safely.

Key Features Include:


💻 How to Download Ledger Live Desktop

To get started, always download Ledger Live from the official source to avoid phishing or malware risks. Here’s how:

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

Go to Ledger.com/ledger-live and click on Download Ledger Live.

Step 2: Choose Your Operating System

Ledger Live is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. Select your OS and begin downloading the installer.

Step 3: Install the Application

Run the downloaded file and follow the installation prompts. Once installed, open the app and you’ll be greeted by a welcome screen.


🔐 Setting Up Ledger Live Desktop

Step 1: Connect Your Ledger Device

Connect your Ledger Nano X or Ledger Nano S Plus via USB. The app will detect your device automatically.

Step 2: Initialize Your Device

If you’re using your Ledger for the first time, follow the on-screen setup guide to create a new wallet and write down your 24-word recovery phrase. This is crucial for recovering your funds.

Step 3: Pair with Ledger Live

Once your wallet is set up, choose “Initialize as a new device” or “Restore from recovery phrase.” Ledger Live will sync your wallet’s public keys to show your balances securely.

Tip:

Never share your recovery phrase. Ledger staff or any support team will never ask for it.


💰 Adding Crypto Accounts

After setting up your Ledger, the next step is to add accounts for each cryptocurrency you want to manage.

How to Add an Account:

  1. Open Ledger Live and go to the “Accounts” tab.
  2. Click “Add Account.”
  3. Select your cryptocurrency (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana).
  4. Verify and approve the request on your device.

Supported Assets:

Ledger Live supports over 5,500 tokens and 100+ blockchains. For a complete list, visit Ledger Supported Assets.


⚙️ Exploring Key Features

1. Portfolio Overview

The dashboard gives a detailed view of your total balance, asset distribution, and historical performance graphs. It’s perfect for tracking your portfolio in real time.

2. Buying and Selling Crypto

Through Ledger’s integrated partners, you can buy or sell crypto without leaving the app. Visit Ledger Buy Crypto for official partner listings.

3. Staking Rewards

Ledger Live allows you to stake coins like Ethereum, Solana, and Polkadot. Staking provides passive income while keeping your assets secure.

4. Swapping Crypto

Use the built-in swap feature to exchange crypto directly, with hardware verification. See supported pairs at Ledger Swap.

5. NFT Management

Manage and view NFTs safely in Ledger Live via Ledger NFT Manager.


🌐 Security and Privacy

1. Offline Key Storage

Your private keys never leave your Ledger hardware device. Transactions are signed securely offline.

2. Firmware Updates

Always keep your device firmware up to date through Ledger Live Download Center.

3. Phishing Protection

Always ensure you’re on the official website — URLs starting with https://www.ledger.com. Avoid clicking suspicious links from emails or social media.

4. Backup and Recovery

Your recovery phrase is the ultimate backup. Store it securely offline. Learn more at Ledger Academy.


📈 Advanced Tools and Integrations

Ledger Live Manager

Access and install apps for different blockchains directly from Ledger Live Manager.

DeFi Integration

Explore decentralized finance safely using Ledger DeFi Tools.

Web3 Connection

Connect your Ledger device to popular dApps using Ledger Connect.


💡 Troubleshooting & Support

Common Issues:

Need Help?

Access the official knowledge base and submit support tickets directly via Ledger Support Center.


🌟 Conclusion

Ledger Live Desktop is more than just a wallet management tool — it’s your gateway to a secure and decentralized financial future. By pairing it with your Ledger hardware wallet, you ensure unmatched protection for your crypto assets, while enjoying the convenience of modern portfolio management.

Final Tip:

Bookmark and use only the official Ledger links listed in this article. Your security depends on it!


🔗 Official Ledger Links (10)

  1. Ledger Official Website
  2. Download Ledger Live
  3. Supported Crypto Assets
  4. Buy Crypto
  5. Swap Crypto
  6. NFT Management
  7. DeFi Tools
  8. Ledger Connect
  9. Ledger Support
  10. Ledger Academy