Ledger® Live: Desktop | Getting Started with Ledger®

If you're new to Ledger®, the first thing you’ll want to do is get familiar with Ledger Live: Desktop, the official app for managing your crypto with a Ledger hardware wallet. Whether you have a Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X, this guide will help you get started using Ledger® Live on your desktop computer—safely and step by step.

Let’s break it down in a simple, easy-to-follow format.

🧩 What Is Ledger® Live?

Ledger Live is the official companion app for your Ledger hardware wallet. It acts as your interface for interacting with the blockchain, helping you send and receive cryptocurrencies, check balances, install apps, stake tokens, and more—all while keeping your private keys stored securely on your device.

There are two main versions:

  • Ledger Live Desktop – for Windows, Mac, and Linux
  • Ledger Live Mobile – for Android and iOS

This article focuses on Ledger Live: Desktop.

🖥 Step 1: Download Ledger Live for Desktop

Go to the official site:
 👉 Ledger.com/Start

From there, select the desktop version for your operating system:

  • Windows (7+)
  • macOS (10.14+)
  • Linux (Ubuntu-based distributions)

⚠️ Important:
 Never download Ledger Live from unofficial websites or ads. Always type the URL directly or use a bookmark.

🧰 Step 2: Install Ledger Live

Once downloaded:

  1. Open the installation file.
  2. Follow the on-screen instructions to install Ledger Live.
  3. Open the app after installation.

You’ll see a welcome screen asking whether you want to set up a new device or use an existing one.

🔐 Step 3: Set Up or Connect Your Ledger Device

Choose your option:

  • New to Ledger? Click “Set up a new device” and follow the on-screen instructions.
  • Already have a device? Click “Connect your device.”

Make sure you only follow instructions shown in Ledger Live and on your Ledger hardware wallet’s screen—never from pop-ups or third-party sites.

🧠 Step 4: Understand the Recovery Phrase

During the setup (if you're new), your Ledger device will display a 24-word recovery phrase. This is the most important step.

Here’s what to do:

  • Write the words down in order, exactly as shown.
  • Use the recovery sheet included in your Ledger box.
  • Never store this phrase on your phone, computer, or cloud.
🔒 Your recovery phrase is the master key to your wallet. Lose it, and you lose access. Share it, and someone else can steal your crypto.

🔐 Step 5: Set Your PIN Code

You’ll also set a PIN code on your device. This is used to unlock your Ledger each time you use it.

Choose a code that is:

  • Between 4 and 8 digits
  • Easy to remember but hard for others to guess
  • Not written near your recovery phrase

🧱 Step 6: Install Apps for Your Cryptocurrencies

With your device connected and secured, you can now install apps for the coins you want to manage:

  1. In Ledger Live, go to Manager.
  2. Allow access by confirming on your Ledger device.
  3. Install apps like:
  • Bitcoin (BTC)
  • Ethereum (ETH)
  • Solana (SOL)
  • Polkadot (DOT) and many others

Each app enables communication between Ledger Live and the coin's blockchain.

📁 Step 7: Add Accounts

Now you’re ready to add accounts:

  1. Go to the Accounts tab.
  2. Click “Add account.”
  3. Choose the coin (e.g., Bitcoin).
  4. Ledger Live will scan the blockchain and add your wallet.

You can now see your wallet balance, receive addresses, and transaction history.

💸 Step 8: Send and Receive Crypto

To receive crypto:

  1. Go to the Receive tab.
  2. Choose an account (e.g., Ethereum).
  3. Verify the address on your Ledger device screen.
  4. Copy and share the verified address to receive funds.

To send crypto:

  1. Click the Send tab.
  2. Enter the recipient’s address, amount, and confirm the transaction.
  3. Verify all details on your Ledger screen before confirming.
⚠️ Never send crypto without verifying the address on your Ledger device first!

🛠 Extra Features in Ledger Live Desktop

Ledger Live isn’t just about sending and receiving. It offers:

  • Staking (e.g., for Ethereum, Polkadot, Tezos)
  • Buy/Sell Crypto (via integrated partners)
  • Swap features for supported coins
  • Portfolio tracking with graphs and performance insights
  • Custom transaction fees for advanced users

🛡️ Security Tips

  • Always verify every transaction on your Ledger device screen
  • Only download from the official site: Ledger.com/Start
  • Use strong PIN codes
  • Never share your 24-word recovery phrase
  • Enable password lock in Ledger Live (optional)
  • Keep your device offline when not in use

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use Ledger Live without the internet?
 A: Ledger Live requires an internet connection to sync with blockchains, but your private keys never leave the Ledger device.

Q: What happens if my Ledger gets lost or stolen?
 A: Simply buy a new Ledger, choose “Restore from recovery phrase,” and enter your 24 words.

Q: Is Ledger Live safe from viruses?
 A: As long as you download from the official site and don’t enter your recovery phrase anywhere online, Ledger Live is safe.

✅ Summary: Ledger Live Desktop Setup Checklist

TaskStatusDownloaded Ledger Live from Ledger.com/Start✅Installed and launched the app✅Set up Ledger device and PIN code✅Wrote down 24-word recovery phrase✅Installed coin apps✅Added accounts✅Sent/received test transactions✅Activated security tips✅


🎯 Final Thoughts

Ledger Live: Desktop is your control center for managing crypto securely, but your habits make all the difference. As long as you stay cautious and follow the setup through Ledger.com/Start, your digital assets will remain safe and in your control.

Want a printable beginner checklist or a walkthrough PDF? Just let me know!