Getting Started with Ledgér — the official desktop companion app for your Ledger hardware wallet.
Manage your crypto securely from your desktop
Ledger Live Desktop provides an integrated interface to initialize devices, add accounts, send and receive crypto, install apps, and monitor your portfolio — all while keeping your private keys safely offline in your Ledger device.
Only download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website to avoid tampered installers.
Cross-platform
Available for macOS, Windows, and Linux with consistent UX.
Device-first
All signing operations occur on your Ledger device — Ledger Live never has access to your private keys.
Quick setup — desktop installation
Follow these carefully to install Ledger Live and initialize or restore your Ledger device.
Download from ledger.com/start — choose the Desktop option and select your platform.
Install and open Ledger Live — follow OS prompts to complete installation.
Connect your Ledger device — use the supplied USB cable (or Bluetooth for supported models like Nano X).
Initialize or restore — Ledger Live will walk you through creating a new wallet (generate seed) or restoring from an existing recovery phrase.
Install blockchain apps — use the Manager tab to install specific blockchain apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) on your device.
Add accounts — after apps are installed, add accounts in Ledger Live to manage different cryptocurrencies.
Command-line & advanced users
Linux users can use provided tarballs or package manager instructions. Developers and power users can also use CLI tools and developer SDKs to integrate Ledger devices into automated workflows — always ensure apps and firmware are official.
Example quick commands:
1. Download and open Ledger Live
2. Connect device via USB
3. In Manager, install required apps (bitcoin, ethereum)
4. In Accounts, click Add account and follow prompts
Accounts & portfolio management
Ledger Live aggregates your accounts and shows balances, transaction history, and portfolio performance. You can add multiple accounts per blockchain and manage them independently.
Add and manage accounts
Open Ledger Live → Accounts → Add account.
Select the blockchain and connect your device.
Confirm account derivation on your Ledger device (addresses displayed on-device match Ledger Live).
Receive funds
Use the Receive flow to display a receiving address in Ledger Live and verify that the address shown matches the one on your Ledger device before sharing it.
Send funds
Prepare a transaction in Ledger Live, then verify and approve the transaction on your Ledger device. Do not approve transactions that display unexpected amounts or destinations.
Security — what to know
Ledger Live is built to complement the hardware security of your Ledger device. Here are the core security principles and best practices to follow.
Private keys stay offline
Ledger devices sign transactions internally; private keys never leave the device.
Recovery phrase
Your recovery phrase (seed) is the only backup to restore your wallets. Store it offline and never enter it into software or websites.
Firmware & app verification
Ledger Live checks firmware signatures and ensures you install genuine apps from the Ledger catalog.
Best practices
Download Ledger Live only from ledger.com/start.
Verify device authenticity and packaging on first use.
Never disclose your recovery phrase or PIN to anyone.
Use a secure physical backup (steel backup solutions are recommended for long-term storage).
Recognizing phishing
Ledger will never ask for your seed words. Beware of phishing emails, fake sites, and unsolicited support offers. When in doubt, confirm via the official website and support channels.
FAQ & troubleshooting
Device not recognized by Ledger Live
Try a different cable, port, or restart Ledger Live. Ensure the device firmware is up to date. On macOS, check Security & Privacy settings for permissions if needed.
Forgot PIN
If you forget the PIN, reset the device and restore from your recovery phrase. The reset erases the device but funds are recoverable with the seed.
Firmware update failed
Do not disconnect during an update. If an update fails, follow recovery instructions in Ledger Live or contact Ledger support. Avoid unofficial repair steps.
How do I stake or earn interest?
Ledger Live supports staking for select assets. The app will show staking options when supported for the asset/account. Follow the on-screen flow and confirm actions on your device.
Advanced features
Third-party integrations
Ledger Live integrates with partner services for swapping, staking, and DeFi access. When connecting to third-party services, verify permissions and review the scope of access requested.
Developer & enterprise
Developers can use Ledger SDKs to build integrations and enterprise users can deploy workflows combining Ledger devices with HSMs and multisig for enhanced operational security.