Ledger® Live: Desktop | Getting Started with Ledger

Cryptocurrencies have transformed how we think about money, investing, and digital ownership. But with innovation comes responsibility—especially when it comes to securely storing and managing your crypto. That’s where Ledger® Live: Desktop comes in. Paired with a Ledger hardware wallet, Ledger Live is your secure, all-in-one platform for managing your digital assets from your desktop computer.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to get started with Ledger Live Desktop—from installation to securely sending and receiving crypto.

What Is Ledger® Live Desktop?

Ledger® Live Desktop is the official companion software for Ledger’s hardware wallets (Ledger Nano X, Nano S Plus, and Nano S). It allows you to manage your cryptocurrencies and digital assets on your desktop with a sleek, intuitive interface. Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, Ledger Live Desktop gives users full control over their assets while keeping private keys stored securely offline in their Ledger device.

Ledger Live is more than just a wallet—it’s a portfolio tracker, staking hub, crypto swap tool, and gateway to decentralized finance (DeFi) and NFTs, all rolled into one secure application.

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

Step 1: Download and Install the Ledger Live App

Start by downloading the desktop version of Ledger Live from the official Ledger website:

🔗 https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live

  1. Choose your operating system: Windows, macOS, or Linux.
  2. Download the installer.
  3. Run the installer and follow the prompts to complete installation.
  4. Once installed, launch the Ledger Live app.
✅ Security Tip: Only download Ledger Live from the official website. Avoid third-party sites to prevent phishing or malware attacks.

Step 2: Set Up or Restore Your Ledger Device

If you haven’t set up your Ledger device:

  1. Connect your Ledger Nano X or Nano S Plus via USB.
  2. Choose “Set up as new device” on the Ledger screen.
  3. Follow the on-device instructions to create a PIN and generate a 24-word recovery phrase.
  4. Write the recovery phrase on the provided card—never store it digitally.

If you already have a device:

  • Choose “Restore device from recovery phrase” and enter your 24-word phrase to regain access to your wallet.

Step 3: Initialize Ledger Live

Once your device is ready:

  1. Open Ledger Live.
  2. Click “Get Started.”
  3. Choose your device model (Nano X, Nano S Plus).
  4. Follow the on-screen security checklist to verify device authenticity.
  5. Optional: Enable password lock or biometric login for additional protection.

Ledger Live will confirm that your hardware wallet is genuine and ready to use.

Step 4: Install Crypto Apps on Your Device

To manage specific cryptocurrencies (like Bitcoin or Ethereum), you need to install corresponding apps on your Ledger device:

  1. In Ledger Live, navigate to the Manager tab.
  2. Connect and unlock your Ledger device.
  3. Search for and install the crypto apps you plan to use (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana).
  4. Once installed, return to the Accounts tab to add wallets.

Each app enables your device to sign transactions securely for that specific blockchain.

Step 5: Add Accounts to Your Ledger Live Portfolio

  1. In the Accounts tab, click “Add account.”
  2. Select the crypto asset you want to manage.
  3. Open the matching app on your Ledger device.
  4. Ledger Live will scan the blockchain for your accounts and balances.
  5. Click “Add account” to complete the setup.

You can add multiple accounts for the same asset if you want to organize your funds or separate activity.

Core Functions in Ledger Live Desktop

Once your accounts are added, you can begin using Ledger Live’s full functionality:

✅ Send and Receive Crypto

  • Click “Receive” to generate a wallet address. Confirm the address on your device before sharing.
  • Click “Send” to initiate a transaction. Enter the recipient’s address and amount, and confirm everything on your Ledger device.

✅ Buy and Swap

  • Use the Buy tab to purchase crypto via integrated partners like MoonPay and Coinify.
  • Use the Swap tab to exchange one asset for another without leaving Ledger Live.

All transactions require verification on your hardware wallet for maximum security.

✅ Track Your Portfolio

  • View real-time data on your crypto holdings.
  • Monitor price changes, performance charts, and transaction history.
  • Customize views by assets, accounts, or time frames.

✅ Earn Rewards via Staking

  • Stake coins such as Ethereum, Polkadot, Cosmos, and more.
  • Click on a supported account and select “Earn Rewards.”
  • Follow the steps to delegate your tokens and start earning passive income.

✅ Manage NFTs

  • Add your Ethereum or Polygon account.
  • View your NFTs in the NFT tab with visual previews.
  • Securely send and receive NFTs, confirmed via your Ledger device.

Advanced Tips for Desktop Users

  • Use Multiple Accounts: Manage personal and business accounts separately or organize wallets by purpose.
  • Custom Tokens: Add unsupported ERC-20 or BEP-20 tokens manually.
  • Security Center: Visit the Security tab to configure PIN, password lock, and device connection preferences.
  • Firmware Updates: Keep your Ledger device and Live app updated for the latest features and security patches.

Why Choose Ledger Live for Desktop?

FeatureBenefitHardware wallet integrationKeeps private keys offlineIntuitive interfaceBeginner-friendly, yet powerfulAll-in-one solutionTrack, trade, stake, and manage in one placeBroad asset supportOver 5,500 coins and tokensSecure DeFi and NFT accessWeb3 ready with full control


Ledger Live Desktop is designed to bring simplicity and trust to crypto. You don’t need to be a blockchain expert to use it—just follow the steps, confirm on your device, and take control of your financial future.

Final Thoughts

Ledger® Live: Desktop is the ideal tool for anyone who wants to take their crypto management seriously. By combining ease of use with Ledger’s trusted security model, the app helps you protect your assets while exploring the full potential of the blockchain ecosystem.

Whether you're tracking your portfolio, staking crypto, or securely managing NFTs, Ledger Live Desktop provides the tools and protection you need—all from the comfort of your desktop.