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

Ledger® Live — Desktop: Getting started

A concise, friendly guide to install Ledger Live Desktop, connect your Ledger device, and safely manage your crypto.

Overview

Ledger Live is the desktop companion app that lets you check balances, send and receive assets, and install apps on your Ledger hardware wallet. This guide walks through the first-time setup for Ledger Live on Windows, macOS, or Linux and highlights safety tips to keep your crypto secure.

Before you begin

Have your Ledger device (Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Nano X) nearby with a charged battery if applicable.
Only download Ledger Live from the official source and verify the download if possible.
Do not share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone. Ledger Support will never ask for it.

Pro tip: Use a dedicated computer for installing crypto software if you can. Keep your OS and antivirus software up to date.

Step-by-step: Install Ledger Live (Desktop)

Download the installer

Visit the official Ledger download page and choose the correct installer for your operating system (Windows .exe, macOS .dmg, or Linux .AppImage / .deb).

Run the installer

Open the downloaded file and follow on-screen instructions. On macOS you may need to allow the app in Security & Privacy the first time you open it.

Open Ledger Live

Launch the app and accept the terms. You will be guided through onboarding options: create a new wallet (initialize) or restore an existing one with your recovery phrase.

Connect your device

Connect your Ledger device via USB (or Bluetooth for Nano X). Unlock it with your PIN. Ledger Live will detect the device and prompt to pair.

Install Manager & Apps

Use the Manager tab to install currency-specific apps (for example: Bitcoin, Ethereum). Each blockchain requires its companion app on the device to operate with Ledger Live.

Add accounts

In the Accounts tab, add accounts for your installed currencies. Ledger Live will sync balances and transaction history for each account.

Safety checklist

Never enter your 24-word recovery phrase into a computer or a browser. Store it physically and offline.
Verify app downloads and updates only come from Ledger’s official website.
Enable a strong PIN on your Ledger device and a secure password for the Ledger Live app when prompted.

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Q: My device isn’t detected. What now?
A: Try a different USB cable or port, ensure the device is unlocked, and that Ledger Live has required permissions. Reboot your computer if needed.

Q: Is Ledger Live open-source?
A: Ledger publishes parts of its codebase and security documentation. For advanced users, review Ledger’s official developer resources and release notes.