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Ledger Live® Desktop — Getting Started | Official is your complete introduction to managing crypto assets securely using Ledger hardware wallets. Ledger Live® Desktop is the official application developed by Ledger to interact with Ledger hardware devices such as Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X. It allows users to securely buy, sell, stake, swap, and manage cryptocurrencies while keeping private keys protected offline.
This guide walks you through downloading, installing, setting up, and safely using Ledger Live® Desktop for the first time.
Ledger Live® Desktop is the official desktop software interface that connects directly with Ledger hardware wallets. It serves as the control center for your crypto portfolio while ensuring that private keys never leave your physical device.
Ledger Live® Desktop allows you to:
All sensitive actions require confirmation directly on your Ledger hardware wallet, adding an important physical layer of protection.
Using Ledger Live® Desktop — Getting Started | Official software offers several key benefits:
Private keys are stored securely inside the Ledger hardware wallet. Transactions must be physically confirmed on the device.
Track all supported assets in one unified dashboard.
Install and manage apps for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other supported networks directly from the desktop interface.
Receive verified firmware and software updates directly from Ledger.
Ledger Live® Desktop is built with a clean interface suitable for both beginners and advanced users.
To begin, always download Ledger Live® Desktop from the official Ledger website. Carefully verify the URL before downloading to avoid phishing sites or fake software.
Supported systems include:
Never download Ledger Live® Desktop from third-party websites, email links, or unofficial sources.
Once downloaded:
The setup process typically takes only a few minutes.
After launching the application, you’ll see two options:
If you are using a brand-new Ledger device:
Your recovery phrase is the master key to your funds. Store it securely offline and never share it.
If you already have a Ledger wallet:
Once complete, your accounts can be re-added inside Ledger Live® Desktop.
After device setup:
Your account balance will appear once synchronization completes.
To send crypto using Ledger Live® Desktop:
Always verify the recipient address on your hardware device before approving.
To receive funds:
Never share an address without confirming it on your hardware wallet screen.
Ledger devices have limited storage, so you install apps based on the coins you use.
To install apps:
You can uninstall apps without losing funds because assets are stored on the blockchain, not the device itself.
Ledger Live® Desktop allows staking for supported cryptocurrencies. Staking enables you to earn rewards by participating in network validation.
To stake:
Rewards vary depending on the blockchain network.
Ledger Live® Desktop integrates third-party services for:
These services are optional and subject to regional availability.
Always review fees before confirming transactions.
When using Ledger Live® Desktop — Getting Started | Official, follow these security guidelines:
If someone has your recovery phrase, they control your funds.
Always confirm transaction details directly on your Ledger hardware wallet screen.
Install firmware and Ledger Live® Desktop updates only through official prompts.
Ledger will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase online.
This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or investment advice. Cryptocurrency investments carry risk, including potential loss of funds. Ledger Live® Desktop is a non-custodial solution, meaning users are solely responsible for safeguarding their recovery phrase and hardware device. Always verify official Ledger sources before downloading software or entering sensitive information.