Ledger Live Desktop

Complete Guide to Download, Install, and Secure Your Ledger Wallet

What is Ledger Live?

Ledger Live is the official desktop application for managing your Ledger hardware wallet. It allows you to securely monitor, send, and receive a wide range of cryptocurrencies, all from one streamlined interface. With Ledger Live, you can manage multiple accounts, track your portfolio, and ensure your crypto assets are protected by the highest security standards in the industry.

This guide will walk you through everything from downloading Ledger Live, installing it on your computer, configuring your wallet, and understanding key security measures to protect your assets.

System Requirements

Before downloading Ledger Live, make sure your system is compatible:

Ensuring your device meets these requirements will prevent installation errors and allow Ledger Live to function smoothly.

Step 1: Download Ledger Live

Access the Official Ledger Website

Open your web browser and navigate to the official Ledger Live download page: https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live/download. Always download from the official source to avoid malicious versions.

Choose Your Operating System

Select the correct version for your computer (Windows, macOS, or Linux). Click “Download” to save the installer file on your device.

Tip: Check the file’s hash if you want to verify it hasn’t been tampered with. Ledger provides hashes for security verification.

Step 2: Install Ledger Live

Run the Installer

Locate the downloaded file and double-click it to start installation. Follow the on-screen instructions carefully. Ledger Live is simple to install, and the installer will guide you step-by-step.

Launch the Application

Once installation is complete, open Ledger Live. The application will automatically check for updates and prompt you to install them. Keeping Ledger Live up-to-date is critical for security and compatibility with all crypto assets.

Tip: Always close other applications when installing to prevent conflicts.

Step 3: Connect Your Ledger Device

Plug in Your Ledger Hardware Wallet

Connect your Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Nano X to your computer using the USB cable. Unlock the device by entering your PIN.

Allow Ledger Live Access

Ledger Live will request permission to connect to your device. Approve the connection on your Ledger to proceed.

Tip: Never share your PIN or recovery phrase. Ledger support will never ask for this information.

Step 4: Set Up Your Wallet

Create a New Wallet or Restore Existing

If you are new, choose “Set up as new device” and follow instructions to generate a secure recovery phrase. If you already own a Ledger device, select “Restore from recovery phrase” to import your existing wallet.

Verify Your Recovery Phrase

Ledger will ask you to confirm the recovery phrase. This is crucial: it’s the only backup to recover your wallet if your device is lost or damaged.

Tip: Store your recovery phrase offline, in a safe and secure location. Avoid taking pictures or storing it digitally.

Step 5: Adding Accounts and Managing Assets

Add Accounts

Go to the “Accounts” tab and click “Add account.” Select the cryptocurrency you want to manage, then open the corresponding app on your Ledger device to verify.

Check Balances and Transactions

Ledger Live will display your account balances, recent transactions, and portfolio overview. You can manage multiple accounts for different cryptocurrencies securely.

Tip: You can hide or display specific accounts to organize your portfolio more effectively.

Step 6: Sending and Receiving Cryptocurrencies

Receive Funds

Click “Receive,” select the account, and verify the address on your Ledger device. Copy this address to your sender’s wallet.

Send Funds

Click “Send,” input the recipient address, amount, and confirm the transaction on your device. Ledger Live will broadcast the transaction securely.

Tip: Always double-check recipient addresses. Cryptocurrency transactions cannot be reversed.

Step 7: Security Best Practices

Step 8: Additional Resources

Ledger offers a range of resources to help you maximize security and learn more about managing your crypto assets:

Ledger Live Desktop | Complete Download and Setup Guide