Ledger® Live: Desktop® — Getting Started

Welcome & What this guide will do for you

This guide explains how to begin with Ledger Live on Desktop. If you are new to hardware wallets, Ledger Live acts as your local interface to manage crypto assets while your private keys stay on a secure device. The step-by-step sections below will walk you from downloading the application to safely managing accounts and following essential security practices.

Download & Install Ledger Live

Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website or the verified app store for your operating system. Do not install copies from unknown sources. On Desktop, supported operating systems typically include macOS, Windows, and Linux. Before installing, check system requirements and ensure your OS is up to date.

Quick checklist before install

  • Use a trusted network — avoid public Wi-Fi when performing initial setup.
  • Confirm file checksum when available; verify signature for extra safety.
  • Prepare a secure, offline place to write your recovery phrase.

Set up your Ledger device

When you open Ledger Live for the first time, you'll be guided through creating or restoring a device. If you are setting a brand-new device, choose Create a new device. Ledger devices will prompt you to set a PIN and will display the generated recovery phrase (12, 18, or 24 words depending on model) on the device screen — never on the computer screen.

Step-by-step: Initial setup

1. Connect your device

Use the official cable. When prompted, allow the device to communicate with Ledger Live.

2. Choose a PIN

Create a PIN you'll remember but that isn't easily guessable. Use a combination of digits.

3. Write the recovery phrase

Write the recovery phrase exactly in order on the supplied recovery sheet. This is the only backup for your funds.

4. Confirm the phrase

Confirm the words on the device to finalize setup. Store the recovery sheet somewhere safe and offline.

Add and manage accounts

With your device configured, use Ledger Live to add cryptocurrency accounts. Click Accounts → Add Account, select the currency you want (for example Bitcoin, Ethereum), then follow the instructions in-app. The device will confirm every account action, keeping private keys offline.

Account tips

  • Use separate accounts for different coin types to keep records tidy.
  • Label accounts clearly (e.g., "BTC — Savings", "ETH — Staking") in Ledger Live for easy identification.
  • Sync regularly: open Ledger Live and connect your device to update balances and transaction history.

Security best practices

Security is central to using a hardware wallet. Never share your recovery phrase. Ledger devices protect private keys, but human mistakes can compromise safety. Keep the following best practices:

Do
  • Keep the recovery phrase offline and stored in multiple secure locations (e.g., a home safe).
  • Always verify requests on your Ledger device screen before approving.
  • Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated to the latest official versions.
Don't
  • Enter the recovery phrase on any computer or phone (even if prompted by support).
  • Share recovery words, PIN, or device with anyone.
  • Use unofficial browser extensions or plugins that ask for private keys.

Troubleshooting common issues

If Ledger Live cannot detect your device, try these checks: confirm cable and USB port, allow device access on your computer, and check whether the device is unlocked. If an app on the device fails to open, remove and reinstall that app via Ledger Live's Manager. When in doubt, consult official Ledger support pages or reach out to verified channels — never post your recovery phrase in support tickets.

Safe recovery and restoration

If your device is lost or broken, you can restore accounts using the recovery phrase on a new Ledger device (or a compatible hardware wallet that you trust). Restoration requires entering your recovery phrase on the new device ONLY. Again: never type recovery words into a computer web form.

Advanced: Customization, apps, and integrations

Ledger Live supports installation of coin-specific apps directly onto the device. These apps allow signing transactions locally. For advanced users, Ledger Live also shows third-party integrations for DeFi and staking — always verify the third-party provider and understand the permissions requested.

Performance & privacy notes

Ledger Live queries public blockchain data to display balances (it never sends private keys). To enhance privacy, you can use your own node or leverage privacy-conscious wallets with account integration. For frequent traders, check account synchronization settings and manage transaction batching to reduce fees.

Conclusion

Starting with Ledger Live on Desktop is about combining an intuitive local interface with the strong security of a hardware device. Remember these core points: keep your recovery phrase offline and secret, verify everything on the physical device screen, and always use official Ledger software and sources. With these precautions, Ledger devices make self-custody of crypto accessible and secure for both new and experienced users.

Final checklist

  • Downloaded Ledger Live from an official source
  • Set a PIN on your device
  • Backed up and safely stored the recovery phrase
  • Added accounts and tested a small transaction to confirm flow
  • Reviewed security best practices and verified device prompts

© Ledger — This page is a template guide only. Always refer to the official Ledger resources for urgent or highly sensitive actions.