Ledger® Live Desktop: Getting Started

Your complete guide to installing and setting up Ledger Live Desktop application. Securely manage your cryptocurrencies with the official Ledger desktop platform.

Ledger Live Desktop
Secure Connection
$42,568.42
  • BTC
    Bitcoin
    $28,245.30
  • ETH
    Ethereum
    $8,325.12
  • SOL
    Solana
    $5,998.00

System Requirements

Ensure your computer meets the minimum requirements for running Ledger Live Desktop application

Windows

  • Windows 10 (64-bit) or later
  • 4GB RAM minimum (8GB recommended)
  • 200MB free disk space
  • USB port for device connection
  • Internet connection

macOS

  • macOS 10.14 (Mojave) or later
  • 4GB RAM minimum (8GB recommended)
  • 200MB free disk space
  • USB port for device connection
  • Internet connection

Linux

  • Ubuntu 18.04 or later
  • 4GB RAM minimum (8GB recommended)
  • 200MB free disk space
  • USB port for device connection
  • Internet connection
Note: Ledger Live Desktop requires a Ledger hardware wallet (Nano X, Nano S, or Nano S Plus) to create accounts and manage cryptocurrencies. The application can be installed without a device, but full functionality requires a connected Ledger device.

Installation Guide

Follow these detailed steps to install and set up Ledger Live Desktop on your computer

1

Download Ledger Live Desktop

Visit the official Ledger website at Ledger.com/ledger-live and download the appropriate version for your operating system. Ensure you're downloading from the official source to avoid malicious software.

Security Warning: Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website. Third-party sources may contain malware designed to steal your cryptocurrencies.
Ledger Live Download Page
2

Install the Application

Run the downloaded installer file and follow the on-screen instructions. The installation process varies by operating system:

Windows: Run the .exe file and follow the installation wizard. You may need to allow the application to make changes to your device.

macOS: Open the .dmg file and drag Ledger Live to your Applications folder. You may need to allow the application in Security & Privacy settings.

Linux: Use the provided .AppImage file or follow the specific instructions for your distribution.
Installation Wizard Screenshot
3

Initial Setup and Configuration

When you first launch Ledger Live, you'll be guided through the initial setup process:

  • Choose your language and region
  • Accept the terms of service
  • Set your privacy preferences
  • Configure automatic updates
Initial Setup Screenshot
4

Connect Your Ledger Device

Connect your Ledger hardware wallet using the provided USB cable. For Ledger Nano X, you can also connect via Bluetooth (requires Ledger Live Mobile for initial pairing).

Device Detection: Ledger Live will automatically detect your connected device. If this is your first time using the device, you'll be guided through the device setup process, including generating your 24-word recovery phrase.
Device Connection Screenshot
5

Install Cryptocurrency Apps

Use the Manager tab in Ledger Live to install apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage. Each cryptocurrency requires its own app on your Ledger device.

// Example: Installing Bitcoin app
// 1. Navigate to Manager tab
// 2. Connect and unlock your device
// 3. Find Bitcoin in the app catalog
// 4. Click Install
// 5. Confirm installation on device
App Manager Screenshot
6

Create Accounts and Start Using

After installing apps, create accounts for each cryptocurrency in Ledger Live. Your Ledger device will generate receiving addresses that you can use to fund your wallet.

Pro Tip: Security Best Practices

Always verify receiving and sending addresses on your Ledger device screen before confirming transactions. This prevents malware from substituting addresses.

Account Creation Screenshot

Ledger Live Desktop Features

Discover the powerful features that make Ledger Live Desktop the ultimate crypto management platform

Portfolio Overview

Monitor all your cryptocurrency investments in real-time with comprehensive portfolio tracking and performance analytics across all your accounts.

Secure Transactions

Send, receive, and swap cryptocurrencies with military-grade security. All transactions require physical confirmation on your Ledger device.

Staking & Earning

Earn rewards by staking supported cryptocurrencies directly through Ledger Live while maintaining full control of your assets.

NFT Management

Securely manage, view, and transfer your NFT collection with Ledger Live's integrated NFT gallery and management tools.

Auto-Sync & Backup

Your portfolio data automatically syncs across devices. Export transaction history for tax reporting and accounting purposes.

Advanced Security

Benefit from Ledger's secure element technology, regular security updates, and built-in protection against phishing attempts.

Download Ledger Live Desktop

Join millions of users who trust Ledger Live Desktop for secure cryptocurrency management. Download the application and start your journey to financial sovereignty today.

Looking for mobile? Ledger Live Mobile is available for iOS and Android devices. Download from the App Store or Google Play to manage your portfolio on the go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about Ledger Live Desktop installation and usage