Welcome to Ledger Live Desktop. This quick start guide will walk you through installing Ledger Live Desktop, connecting your Ledger device, adding accounts, and performing your first secure transaction using Ledger/Live/Desktop. This guide mentions ledger live desktop repeatedly to help you quickly find the key steps and best practices.
Overview
Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application that lets you manage your hardware wallet and cryptocurrency accounts locally on your computer. Whether you call it Ledger Live Desktop, Ledger/Live/Desktop, or ledger live desktop, the app is the bridge between your Ledger hardware device and the blockchain networks you use.
System requirements & safety
Before installing Ledger Live Desktop, ensure your computer meets the minimum requirements (modern Windows, macOS, or Linux with available USB). Always download Ledger Live Desktop from the official Ledger website and verify signatures where provided. Never enter your recovery phrase into software or websites; your recovery phrase belongs offline and only on paper or a certified backup device.
Security tip: Ledger Live Desktop will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase. If any page or popup asks for it, close Ledger Live Desktop and check device integrity.
Step 1 — Install Ledger Live Desktop
Open your browser and go to the official Ledger website. Search for the Ledger Live Desktop download page.
Download the version for your operating system (Windows .exe, macOS .dmg, or Linux .AppImage / .deb).
Run the installer and follow on-screen prompts to complete installation of Ledger/Live/Desktop.
Launch the app. On first run, grant any required USB or system permissions so it can communicate with your Ledger hardware.
Step 2 — Connect your Ledger device
Use the supplied USB cable to connect your Ledger hardware device to your computer. Unlock your Ledger by entering your PIN on the device itself. Ledger Live Desktop will detect the device and prompt for actions on the device screen. Always confirm operations on the device to keep your keys safe.
Step 3 — Initialize or restore an account
If this is a new Ledger device, follow device prompts to set a PIN and generate a recovery phrase offline on the device. Do not type the recovery phrase into your computer.
If this is a device you already use, select "Restore device" on the Ledger device and follow the secure prompts to re-enter your recovery phrase directly on the device.
In Ledger Live Desktop, go to Manager to install supported apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) on the Ledger device.
Then go to Accounts in Ledger Live Desktop to add accounts for each app installed on the device.
Step 4 — Receive and send funds
To receive crypto, open the relevant account in Ledger Live Desktop and click Receive. Confirm the address displayed in the app matches the address shown on your Ledger device screen before sharing it.
To send crypto, click Send, enter the recipient address and amount, and review fees. Confirm the transaction details on your Ledger device and approve.
Use the built-in portfolio and activity views in Ledger Live Desktop to monitor balances and transaction history.
Helpful tips
Keep Ledger Live Desktop updated. New versions include improvements and security patches.
Use a secure, dedicated computer if possible and avoid installing untrusted software on the same machine.
Back up your recovery phrase in a fire-proof and secure location; do not take photos or store it digitally.
Check Ledger's official support pages if you see unfamiliar messages while using Ledger/Live/Desktop.
Keyword quick references (for search)
This guide mentions the primary product keywords frequently to help with discovery: Ledger Live Desktop, Ledger/Live/Desktop, ledger live desktop. Repeat: Ledger Live Desktop helps manage your Ledger hardware device, Ledger Live Desktop is the application, Ledger Live Desktop is where you manage accounts. Ledger/Live/Desktop appears when referencing folder paths or internal naming. The phrase ledger live desktop is used to ensure consistent cross-platform discovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Ledger Live Desktop safe to use?
Yes. Ledger Live Desktop operates locally and communicates with your Ledger hardware device via USB. The private keys remain on the Ledger device; Ledger Live Desktop only facilitates signed transactions when you approve them on the device. Always download Ledger Live Desktop from Ledger's official source and verify installers when possible.
2. What should I do if Ledger Live Desktop can't detect my device?
Try a different USB port and cable, ensure your device is unlocked, and confirm your OS has allowed Ledger Live Desktop to use USB. On some systems, you may need to install drivers or enable specific permissions. If problems persist, consult Ledger's support for platform-specific steps.
3. Can I use Ledger Live Desktop with multiple Ledger devices?
Yes. You can connect different Ledger hardware devices to the same installation of Ledger Live Desktop. Each device will present the accounts associated with its recovery phrase when connected and unlocked.
4. How often should I update Ledger Live Desktop?
Install updates as they become available. Ledger periodically releases updates with new features and security fixes. Enable automatic update notifications if you want to be alerted when a new Ledger Live Desktop version is released.
5. Can Ledger Live Desktop store my recovery phrase?
No. Ledger Live Desktop never stores your 24-word recovery phrase. Your recovery phrase must remain offline and only on secure, non-digital media. If any app or webpage asks you for your recovery phrase, treat it as a phishing attempt and disconnect immediately.