Setup and Installation

Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application for managing cryptocurrency assets via Ledger hardware wallets. It is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux and provides a secure and user-friendly interface for portfolio management, transactions, app installations, and firmware updates.

Step 1: Download Ledger Live Desktop

Visit the official Ledger website and download Ledger Live Desktop for your operating system. Always verify the URL to ensure you are downloading the authentic software.

Step 2: Install the Application

Run the downloaded installer and follow the instructions to complete the installation. The installation process is straightforward, and the application does not require internet access for basic functions.

Step 3: Connect Your Ledger Hardware Wallet

Use a USB cable to connect your Ledger Nano S Plus or Nano X. For Nano X, Bluetooth is available for mobile, but desktop login typically uses USB. Ensure the connection is secure and your device is powered on.

Step 4: Initialize or Restore

If you are setting up a new Ledger device, select “Set up as new device” and follow the prompts to create a secure PIN and generate a 24-word recovery phrase. If restoring a previous wallet, choose “Restore from recovery phrase” and input your 24 words in the exact order.

Ledger Live Desktop Features

Portfolio Management: View balances, monitor performance, and track transaction history for multiple accounts.
Send and Receive Cryptocurrency: Securely transact with physical device confirmation for all operations.
Install Blockchain Apps: Add, remove, and manage apps for supported cryptocurrencies.
Buy, Sell, and Swap: Access integrated partners for seamless transactions within Ledger Live Desktop.
Staking: Participate in staking programs for supported coins directly from the app while keeping private keys offline.
Firmware Updates: Receive notifications for new firmware and apply updates safely through the application.

Security Features

Hardware-based Authentication: Private keys never leave the Ledger device.
Device Verification: Ledger Live confirms the device is genuine before allowing operations.
Offline Transaction Signing: All outgoing transactions must be approved physically on the hardware wallet.
Encrypted Communication: Data transmitted between Ledger Live Desktop and the device is fully encrypted.

Even if your computer is compromised, malware cannot alter your transactions without the physical device.

Recovery and Backup

The 24-word recovery phrase generated during setup is the master key to your crypto assets. It allows you to restore all accounts on a new device if your original Ledger is lost or damaged.

Install Ledger Live Desktop on a trusted computer.
Connect a new Ledger hardware device.
Select “Restore from recovery phrase.”
Enter your 24-word phrase in order.
Access all accounts and assets securely.

Never share your recovery phrase. Ledger Live Desktop will never request it digitally.

Best Practices for Ledger Live Desktop

Download Ledger Live Desktop only from the official website.
Keep firmware updated on your Ledger device.
Enter PIN only on the physical device.
Verify all transaction details on the device screen before confirming.
Store recovery phrase securely offline, never digitally.
Use trusted devices for Ledger Live Desktop login.
Avoid phishing attempts and suspicious downloads.

Conclusion

Ledger Live Desktop provides a secure and comprehensive solution for cryptocurrency management. By combining the power of Ledger hardware wallets with an intuitive desktop interface, users can maintain self-custody while performing advanced operations safely.

Proper installation, secure setup, regular firmware updates, and careful management of recovery phrases ensure that your assets remain protected from theft or unauthorized access. Ledger Live Desktop is not just a wallet—it is a secure ecosystem for managing digital wealth with confidence.

Ledger Live®® Desktop — Getting Started

james

16 Feb 2026

Ledger Live Desktop