Start Using Ledger® Live on Desktop

Comprehensive guide — Start using Ledger Live desktop (secure wallet app)

Ledger Live is the secure wallet app most widely used with Ledger hardware devices. When you start using Ledger Live on desktop, you combine the strong, device-level security of hardware custody with an accessible, feature-rich management interface. This guide expands on each step — from downloading Ledger Live desktop to advanced practices — to help you start using the secure wallet app with confidence.

Download & install — best practices

Always download Ledger Live desktop from the official source. Links published on the official domain and trusted channels ensure you receive an untampered installer. After downloading, verify the installer using published checksums or signature verification when provided. Verification helps confirm the downloaded Ledger Live desktop package was not altered. Run the installer and follow platform-specific prompts: on Windows you will run the `.exe` installer, on macOS the `.dmg`, and on Linux choose the appropriate AppImage or package.

Pairing the Ledger device with Ledger Live desktop

Connect your Ledger device via USB. Launch Ledger Live desktop and choose the option to set up a new device or connect an existing one. The secure wallet app will detect the device and request you to unlock it using your device PIN — the same PIN you set when initializing the hardware. Ledger Live desktop and the device exchange only the minimal data needed for account discovery and signing; private keys remain isolated.

Accounts, coins & app management

Within Ledger Live desktop, go to the Accounts section to add supported crypto accounts. Ledger Live desktop supports many blockchains; add accounts for each network you use. For some blockchains, you must install a corresponding blockchain app to the Ledger device from the Manager tab in Ledger Live desktop. Installing blockchain apps does not expose your seed — it only allows the device to understand specific blockchain protocols for signing operations.

Sending & receiving transactions using the secure wallet app

To receive crypto, generate a receiving address in Ledger Live desktop and verify the address on your Ledger device screen. Always compare the receiving address shown in the secure wallet app with what is displayed on the device. When sending, create the transaction in Ledger Live desktop and confirm all transaction fields on your Ledger device before approving. Confirming on-device ensures the transaction details match your intent and prevents tampered requests from being executed.

Firmware & updates

Firmware updates for your Ledger device are published and validated through Ledger Live desktop. When Ledger releases a firmware update, the secure wallet app will prompt you. Apply updates only when you have verified them via official channels; firmware updates include important security patches and improvements. Ledger Live desktop makes the update process accessible and secure by validating update signatures before applying them to the device.

Backup & recovery — recovery phrase guidance

Your recovery phrase (seed) is the ultimate backup. When you first initialize the Ledger device, you will write down a recovery phrase of 24 words (or device-specific variant). Store that recovery securely offline. Ledger Live desktop will never ask for your recovery phrase. If you lose your Ledger device, the recovery phrase is how you restore access on a new Ledger device or compatible wallet — keep it secret, never type it online, and consider using a metal backup for long-term durability.

Privacy & data handling

The secure wallet app displays balances and transactions but does not upload your private keys. Ledger Live desktop may query public block explorers to fetch transaction history and prices; however, signing and private key operations occur on-device. Review privacy settings in Ledger Live desktop and configure any telemetry or third-party integrations according to your comfort level.

Advanced tips for power users

Power users can use the secure wallet app with advanced features: custom fees, multiple accounts per blockchain, and third-party integrations like decentralized applications. For maximum privacy, pair Ledger Live desktop with your own node or use privacy-preserving tools. Consider setting up separate accounts for different purposes (savings, trading, staking) and use the secure wallet app to label accounts clearly for bookkeeping.

Common troubleshooting

If Ledger Live desktop does not detect your Ledger device, check the USB cable and port, ensure the device is unlocked, and confirm any required helper software (like a bridge) is installed and running. On macOS, check that the OS permissions allow USB access. If the app asks for updates repeatedly, reboot your system, reconnect the device, and confirm the Ledger Live desktop version is current. Official support channels can guide more complex troubleshooting.

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