Ledger® Live: Desktop® — Getting Started

Ledger® Live Desktop is the official desktop application for managing your Ledger hardware wallet on Windows, macOS, and Linux. It allows you to securely manage crypto assets, install apps, update firmware, and monitor your portfolio — all while keeping your private keys safely offline.

Download Ledger Live Desktop Ledger.com/Start®

What Is Ledger® Live Desktop?

Ledger® Live Desktop is the primary software interface for Ledger hardware wallets such as Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, and Ledger Stax. It runs locally on your computer, providing a secure environment for managing digital assets without exposing sensitive information online.

The desktop version is recommended for most users due to its stability, broader functionality, and reduced exposure to browser-based threats.

System Requirements

Getting Started: Step-by-Step

1. Download Ledger Live Desktop

Visit the official Ledger website and download Ledger Live Desktop for your operating system. Always verify that the website address is ledger.com.

2. Install and Launch the Application

Follow the installation instructions for your platform. Once installed, open Ledger Live Desktop to begin the guided onboarding process.

3. Connect Your Ledger Device

Connect your Ledger hardware wallet using the supplied USB cable or Bluetooth (for supported models). Unlock the device with your PIN.

4. Set Up or Restore a Wallet

Choose whether to initialize a new wallet or restore an existing one using your 24-word recovery phrase. This process takes place directly on the device.

5. Add Accounts and Apps

Use Ledger Live Desktop to install cryptocurrency apps and add accounts, enabling you to send, receive, and manage assets securely.

Security Model

Ledger® Live Desktop never stores your private keys. All cryptographic operations are performed inside the Secure Element of your Ledger hardware wallet.

Every transaction must be verified on the device screen, protecting you even if your computer is compromised.

Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase, PIN, or private keys.

Key Features of Ledger® Live Desktop

Best Practices