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

Ledger® Live: Desktop — Getting started

A friendly, colorful guide to install, set up and use Ledger Live on your desktop.

Ledger Live is the desktop companion app for Ledger hardware wallets. It lets you manage cryptocurrencies, send and receive funds, install apps on your device, and review portfolio performance — all from a secure interface paired with your Ledger hardware device. This guide walks you through setup, essential security steps, and your first transaction.

1. System requirements & download

Before you begin, make sure your desktop meets the basics: a recent version of Windows 10/11, macOS 10.14+, or a modern Linux distribution. Download Ledger Live only from the official Ledger website and verify the installer if you can. Avoid unofficial sources.

Supported OS: Windows, macOS, Linux.
Stable internet connection for downloads and blockchain sync.
USB port (or USB-C adapter) for your Ledger device.

2. Install & open Ledger Live

Run the installer you downloaded. On the first launch you’ll be greeted by a setup wizard. Read on for the recommended choices.

Select Set up a new device if you have a brand-new Ledger hardware wallet.
If migrating from another device, choose Restore device from recovery phrase.
Follow on-screen instructions to create a secure PIN on your device — do this on the hardware wallet itself, never in the app.

3. Secure your recovery phrase

This is the most important step. Your recovery phrase (often 24 words) is the master key to your funds. Write it down on the provided recovery sheet and store it in a safe, offline location. Never take a photo, copy it to cloud storage, or share it with anyone.

Write the words in order, on paper. Consider a fireproof safe or safety deposit box.
There is no way to recover a lost recovery phrase — Ledger Support cannot restore it for you.

4. Pair device with Ledger Live

Connect your Ledger device via USB and unlock it with your PIN. Ledger Live will detect the device and prompt to pair. Confirm the pairing on the hardware device itself when requested.

5. Install apps & add accounts

Ledger hardware devices run small apps per cryptocurrency. Use the Manager tab in Ledger Live to install the apps you need. Then add accounts to Ledger Live for each crypto you want to manage.

6. Sending & receiving crypto

To receive funds, open the account in Ledger Live and click Receive. Always verify the address on your device screen before sharing it. To send funds, click Send, enter the address and amount, then confirm the transaction details both in Ledger Live and on your hardware device.

Double-check addresses — scams often use slightly altered addresses.
Use network fees appropriate for the speed you need; high fees result in faster confirmations.

7. Stay safe: best practices

Security is layered. Combine device-level protections with good habits:

Always check device screens for approvals — never confirm a transaction on Ledger Live alone.
Keep Ledger Live and your device firmware updated.
Beware of phishing: verify website URLs and never enter your recovery phrase anywhere.
Consider a secondary backup for your recovery phrase (e.g. metal backup) for disaster resistance.

8. Troubleshooting & support

If Ledger Live fails to connect, try these quick steps:

Restart Ledger Live and reconnect your device.
Try a different USB cable or port (data cables only).
Ensure your device is unlocked and on the Ledger Live screen when connecting.
Check for app or firmware updates in the Manager tab.

If problems persist, contact official Ledger Support and provide only non-sensitive information when asking for help (do not share your recovery phrase or PIN).