Ledger® Live: Desktóp | Getting Started - Ledger® Live

Welcome to Ledger® Live Desktóp, the official software for managing your cryptocurrency with a Ledger hardware wallet. Whether you're securing your first Bitcoin or managing a diverse crypto portfolio, Ledger Live makes it easy, secure, and efficient. It’s designed to bring you full control over your assets while keeping your private keys offline and safe.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get started — from installation and setup to sending, receiving, and managing your crypto confidently.


🔐 What is Ledger® Live?

Ledger® Live is the all-in-one desktop (and mobile) app that works seamlessly with your Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, or Ledger Stax® device. It allows you to:

  • View your portfolio in real-time 📊
  • Send and receive coins securely 🔁
  • Install and manage apps on your Ledger device ⚙️
  • Buy, swap, stake, and sell crypto 💱
  • Access Web3 features & dApps via Ledger extension 🌐

All with your private keys protected by your Ledger hardware wallet.


🖥️ Downloading Ledger® Live Desktop

To begin, always download the official Ledger Live app from:
🔗 https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live

It’s available for:

  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux
⚠️ Important: Only download Ledger Live from the official site. Never use third-party sites or unofficial links, as they may contain malware.

🛠️ Setting Up Ledger® Live

Once you’ve downloaded Ledger Live, follow these steps to get started:

Step 1: Install & Open

Install the application on your computer and launch it. You’ll be greeted with a welcome screen.

Step 2: Connect Your Ledger Device

Plug in your Ledger Nano or Stax using the USB cable (or Bluetooth for Nano X). Follow the on-screen prompts.

Step 3: Set Up or Restore

Ledger Live will ask whether you want to:

  • Set up a new Ledger device
  • Restore a device using a recovery phrase
  • Use an existing device

If you’re new, choose to set up a new device. You’ll go through:

  • Generating and writing down your 24-word recovery phrase 🔐
  • Choosing a secure PIN code
📌 Your recovery phrase is your backup key. Never share it or store it digitally.

🪙 Adding Crypto Accounts

After setup, Ledger Live will prompt you to add accounts:

  1. Click “Add Account”
  2. Choose the crypto (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana)
  3. Ledger Live installs the necessary app on your device
  4. Your account is added and synced with the blockchain

Each crypto asset has its own unique account. You can manage as many accounts as needed.


💸 Sending and Receiving Crypto

➕ Receiving:

  1. Select the crypto and account you want to receive into.
  2. Click “Receive”
  3. Verify the address shown on your computer matches your Ledger device screen
  4. Copy the address and share it with the sender

➖ Sending:

  1. Click “Send”
  2. Paste the recipient's wallet address
  3. Enter the amount
  4. Confirm the transaction on your Ledger device

Ledger Live ensures transactions are verified securely and can't be manipulated.


💱 Buying, Swapping, and Staking

Ledger Live offers integrated access to trusted third-party providers so you can:

  • Buy crypto using a bank card or transfer
  • Swap tokens directly from your wallet
  • Stake coins like ETH, DOT, or ATOM and earn rewards
  • Connect to dApps with Ledger Extension and Ledger Live

All transactions are verified using your Ledger device for end-to-end security.


📊 Portfolio Management & Tracking

The Portfolio tab gives you an overview of your holdings:

  • Real-time balance updates
  • Performance charts
  • Historical data
  • Multi-asset support

You can view total net worth or drill into individual coins and transactions.


🔐 Security Reminders

  • Your private keys never leave the device. They’re never visible or online.
  • Always confirm transactions on your Ledger screen.
  • Keep your 24-word recovery phrase offline and private.
  • Beware of phishing emails or fake Ledger websites.
  • Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase.

Ledger Live also includes options to set password lock and privacy settings to hide sensitive info.


🧠 Troubleshooting & Support

If you run into issues:

  • Visit the Ledger Help Center
  • Access in-app troubleshooting tools
  • Join the Ledger community forum or follow support on social media
Ledger Live updates frequently — keep the app and your device firmware up to date for best performance and new features.

✅ Conclusion

Ledger® Live Desktóp is your secure gateway to the crypto world. With its user-friendly interface and hardware-level protection, you can confidently manage your digital assets without compromising on safety. Whether you're sending Bitcoin, staking Ethereum, or simply checking your balance, Ledger Live provides everything you need — in one secure app.

Start today by downloading the app at ledger.com/ledger-live, and take full ownership of your financial future with Ledger®.