Desktop Application

Ledger Live: Desktop
Getting Started

Complete setup guide for Ledger Live Desktop application. Manage your cryptocurrency portfolio securely with hardware wallet protection on Windows, macOS, and Linux.

1
Download & Install
2
Initialize Device
3
Add Accounts
4
Manage Portfolio
5
Advanced Features
1

Download & Install Ledger Live

💻 System Requirements

Before downloading, ensure your system meets these requirements:

Minimum System Requirements

Windows: Windows 10 (64-bit) or later
macOS: macOS 10.14 (Mojave) or later
Linux: Ubuntu 18.04 or equivalent
RAM: 4GB minimum, 8GB recommended
Storage: 500MB free space
Internet: Broadband connection

Download Ledger Live Desktop

Choose your operating system to download the latest version

Version 2.58.0 • Released: December 2023 • File size: 150MB

🔧 Installation Process

Follow these steps to install Ledger Live on your desktop:

1

Run Installer

Double-click the downloaded file and follow the installation wizard

2

Security Permissions

Grant necessary permissions for the application to function properly

3

Launch Application

Open Ledger Live from your applications menu or desktop shortcut

🔒 Security Verification

Always verify the authenticity of your download:

  • Download only from ledger.com official website
  • Check file signatures when available
  • Verify the publisher certificate on Windows
  • Use checksums to validate download integrity
2

Initialize Your Ledger Device

📦 Connect Your Hardware Wallet

Connect your Ledger Nano device to your computer using the provided USB cable:

🔌

Physical Connection

Use original USB cable for reliable connection and power

🔍

Device Detection

Ledger Live should automatically detect your connected device

Unlock Device

Enter your PIN code on the device screen to unlock

🔄 Device Setup Process

Follow the on-screen instructions in Ledger Live to set up your device:

Setup Checklist:

Install latest firmware (critical for security)
Generate new recovery phrase (24 words)
Set up secure PIN code (4-8 digits)
Install cryptocurrency apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.)

⚠️ Critical Security Steps

Never skip these essential security measures:

  • Write down recovery phrase: Store it securely offline
  • Never share recovery phrase: Ledger will never ask for it
  • Verify receiving addresses: Always confirm on device screen
  • Keep firmware updated: Regular updates include security patches
3

Add & Manage Accounts

💰 Add Cryptocurrency Accounts

Ledger Live supports 1000+ cryptocurrencies. Add accounts for the assets you want to manage:

Bitcoin
Ξ
Ethereum
Polygon
Solana

📊 Account Management Features

Ledger Live provides comprehensive account management tools:

👁️

Portfolio Overview

View all your cryptocurrency holdings in one dashboard

📈

Price Charts

Track price movements and portfolio performance over time

🔄

Transaction History

Complete history of all incoming and outgoing transactions

🏷️

Account Labels

Custom labels for easy identification of different accounts

Ledger Live Desktop Features

Powerful tools for managing your cryptocurrency portfolio securely

🔐

Hardware Security

Private keys never leave your Ledger device. All transactions require physical confirmation.

📱

Mobile Sync

Synchronize your portfolio between desktop and mobile applications seamlessly.

💱

Built-in Exchange

Swap cryptocurrencies directly within Ledger Live using partner exchanges.

📊

Portfolio Analytics

Advanced charts and analytics to track your investment performance.

🛡️

Transaction Protection

Advanced security features including address verification and malware detection.

🌐

Web3 Integration

Connect to dApps and DeFi protocols securely through Ledger Live.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about Ledger Live Desktop

Is Ledger Live Desktop compatible with all Ledger devices? +

Yes, Ledger Live Desktop is compatible with all Ledger hardware wallets including Ledger Nano S, Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, and Ledger Stax. The application automatically detects your connected device and provides the appropriate interface and features based on your specific model. All devices benefit from the same high level of security and functionality within Ledger Live.

Can I use Ledger Live Desktop without a hardware wallet? +

While you can install and open Ledger Live Desktop without a hardware wallet, you cannot create accounts or manage cryptocurrencies without connecting a Ledger device. The application is designed specifically to work with Ledger hardware wallets to provide maximum security. However, you can use the portfolio tracking features to monitor market prices and watch specific addresses without a device connected.

How often should I update Ledger Live Desktop? +

You should update Ledger Live Desktop whenever a new version is available. The application automatically checks for updates and notifies you when one is available. Regular updates include security patches, new features, support for additional cryptocurrencies, and performance improvements. We recommend enabling automatic updates or checking for updates at least once a month to ensure you have the latest security enhancements.

What should I do if Ledger Live doesn't recognize my device? +

If Ledger Live doesn't recognize your device, try these troubleshooting steps: 1) Use a different USB cable and port, 2) Restart the application, 3) Update Ledger Live to the latest version, 4) Check if the device is unlocked with PIN, 5) Try on a different computer. If problems persist, check our troubleshooting guide on the Ledger website or contact support with specific error messages.

Is my data backed up when using Ledger Live Desktop? +

Ledger Live Desktop stores your account information locally on your computer, but your cryptocurrency assets are secured by your hardware wallet and recovery phrase. The application data can be backed up using the built-in export feature, which creates an encrypted backup file. However, the most important backup is your 24-word recovery phrase, which can restore all your accounts on any Ledger device. Always keep multiple secure copies of your recovery phrase.

Ready to Secure Your Crypto?

Download Ledger Live Desktop today and start managing your cryptocurrency with enterprise-grade security.