Ledger® Live: Desktop — Getting started with Ledger

A full, security-first walkthrough to install Ledger Live desktop, initialize and secure your Ledger hardware wallet, manage apps and accounts, perform transactions safely, and troubleshoot common issues.

Introduction

Ledger Live Desktop is the cornerstone of a secure self-custody experience when paired with a Ledger hardware device (Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, and others). Designed to keep private keys securely on the hardware, Ledger Live provides a polished interface for device initialization, app management, account monitoring, transaction building, firmware updates, and integrations with trusted partners. This guide focuses on the desktop experience — why it matters, how to install and configure it safely, and best practices you should follow from day one.

Why choose the desktop app?

While Ledger Live is available on mobile, the desktop app offers a robust environment that is ideal for users who manage multiple accounts, need detailed transaction history, prefer larger-screen workflows for verification, or require advanced features like developer tools and in-depth account exports. Desktop environments typically better support driver installation, USB connectivity, and stable backups — all of which simplify interactions with a hardware wallet.

Before you begin — safety checklist

Take a moment to prepare. A secure setup starts with a secure environment.

  • Purchase your Ledger device from an official channel (ledger.com or an authorized reseller) to avoid tampered or tampered-with hardware.
  • Use a personal, up-to-date desktop computer — avoid public or shared machines for device initialization and seed backup.
  • Have a data-capable USB cable and a direct USB port ready. If you use a Nano X with Bluetooth, prepare to pair securely after setup.
  • Choose a calm, private space to write and store your recovery phrase offline (paper or metal backup).
  • Block out 30–45 minutes for the initial setup; rushing increases the chance of mistakes.

Step 1 — Download Ledger Live Desktop

Open a secure browser and navigate to ledger.com/start. The official site will detect your OS and offer the proper Ledger Live installer. Confirm the HTTPS lock and the domain to avoid phishing. If the site provides checksums or digital signatures for the installer, verify them after download to ensure the file’s integrity.

Step 2 — Install Ledger Live

Run the installer and follow the platform-specific instructions. On Windows, you may be prompted for administrative permissions to install drivers. On macOS, follow the standard installation prompts. Once installed, launch Ledger Live. If prompted, update Ledger Live to the latest version — keeping the app current is an important security step.

Step 3 — Initialize your Ledger device

When you first connect a new Ledger device, you’ll be guided through onboarding. You’ll choose between creating a new device or restoring an existing recovery phrase.

  1. Create a new device — the device will generate a new recovery phrase (usually 24 words). Write the words down in order on the supplied recovery sheet or a durable metal backup. Do not store the seed digitally or photograph it.
  2. Restore a device — if you already have a recovery phrase, choose restore and enter your words directly on the device when prompted.

Important: Always confirm the words and the order. Ledger devices will ask you to re-enter selected words to verify you recorded them correctly.

Step 4 — Set a PIN and optional passphrase

Set a device PIN as prompted. The PIN prevents unauthorized use if your device is lost or stolen. Ledger uses randomized PIN entry positions to reduce the likelihood of host-side or shoulder-surfing attacks capturing your PIN. Optionally, you can enable a passphrase: this is an additional secret (like a 25th word) that creates hidden wallets. A passphrase enhances security but must be managed carefully — losing it means losing access to the associated wallet.

Step 5 — Pair with Ledger Live and add accounts

In Ledger Live, choose Get started then follow the prompts to pair your device. Ledger Live will detect the connected device and confirm the model. After pairing:

  • Install the blockchain-specific apps you need from the Manager tab (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.).
  • Add accounts from the Accounts tab — Ledger Live reads public addresses derived from your device to display balances and transaction history.
  • Customize display settings, fiat currency, and notification preferences in Settings.

Step 6 — Firmware updates

Periodically check Ledger Live for firmware updates. Firmware updates can include security patches, performance improvements, and support for new features or coins. Only apply firmware updates requested by Ledger Live and confirm actions on the device screen. Do not interrupt an update once it begins — an interruption can temporarily render the device unusable until recovery steps are followed.

Step 7 — Receive & send crypto securely

To receive funds: open an account, click Receive, and verify the address displayed by Ledger Live against the address shown on your physical device. Only share the address after the on-device check. To send funds: create the transaction in Ledger Live, review amounts and fees, and approve the transaction on your Ledger device. The on-device display is the authoritative source of truth — always verify there.

Security best practices

Following these practices significantly reduces the risk of fund loss:

  • Only download Ledger Live from ledger.com/start or official app stores.
  • Never enter your recovery phrase into a computer, phone, or website.
  • Verify addresses and amounts on the device screen before approving transactions.
  • Keep multiple, geographically separated backups of your recovery phrase; consider metal backups for durability.
  • Be vigilant against phishing — bookmark important Ledger pages rather than following email links.
  • For large holdings consider multi-signature setups or distributing funds across multiple devices.

Troubleshooting common desktop issues

Ledger Live does not detect my device

  • Try a different USB cable or port. Some cables are power-only and do not transfer data.
  • Restart Ledger Live and reconnect the device. On Windows, ensure any required drivers are installed.
  • Close other apps that may be using USB devices (virtual machines, other wallet apps).

Apps won’t install

  • Free up space by removing unused apps from the device via Ledger Live’s Manager and try again.
  • Check that your device firmware is compatible with the app version you’re attempting to install.

Transactions failing or not broadcasting

  • Ensure you have network connectivity and that Ledger Live is up to date.
  • Confirm fees are adequate for the network conditions; adjust fee settings if necessary.

Advanced topics

Passphrase management

Passphrases provide plausible deniability and an additional security layer. Each unique passphrase generates a distinct wallet. Never store passphrases digitally if you can avoid it; treat them as sensitive as recovery phrases. Consider using a secure method (e.g., hardware-backed password manager or offline memorization with multiple physical backups) if you adopt passphrase usage.

Using multiple devices and multisig

For high-value storage, splitting control across multiple devices (multi-signature arrangements) reduces single-device risk. Ledger devices can participate in popular multisig setups, but multisig workflows require more expertise and careful backup planning — test recovery procedures in a controlled environment before relying on them for large amounts.

Exporting transaction history & audits

Ledger Live allows you to export account activity for bookkeeping or audits. When sharing exported data, ensure you redact sensitive personal information and never share your recovery phrase or private keys. Use exported data strictly for reconciliation and tax purposes while maintaining secure local storage.

When to seek support

If you encounter persistent problems — device malfunctions, firmware issues that don’t resolve after standard steps, or suspected security incidents (e.g., seed exposure) — contact Ledger Support through official channels. Provide detailed information such as OS version, Ledger Live version, device model, and a clear sequence of steps that reproduce the issue. Do not provide your recovery phrase to support representatives under any circumstances.

Quick reminder: Your recovery phrase is the single most important artifact for recovering funds. Treat it as you would cash — keep it offline, secure, and redundant.