Ledger® Live: Desktop® — Getting Started®®®

Introduction

Ledger® Live Desktop is the desktop application designed to work with Ledger hardware wallets and provide an interface for managing supported digital assets. Ledger’s current website calls the application Ledger Wallet, formerly known as Ledger Live. The desktop application is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.

A Ledger hardware wallet is used to keep private keys protected while transactions are reviewed and authorized through the physical device. The desktop application can provide portfolio information, account management, asset-related features, and access to supported services.

For security, users should obtain the application only from Ledger’s official website rather than third-party download pages.

Policy and Terms

Before using Ledger Wallet/Desktop, users should understand several basic security and usage principles:

Ledger states that its hardware wallet is intended to keep private keys offline while the companion application provides access to digital-asset management features.

User Manual — Getting Started

Step 1: Visit the Official Ledger Website

Open Ledger's official website directly in your browser. Avoid advertisements, unofficial download sites, modified installers, and links sent through unsolicited messages.

Official starting page: Ledger.com/Start

Step 2: Download the Desktop Application

Select the appropriate operating system for your computer. Ledger currently provides desktop downloads for Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Download the installer and follow your operating system's normal installation process.

Step 3: Open the Application

Launch Ledger Wallet/Desktop after installation. Follow the displayed onboarding instructions and connect your compatible Ledger hardware wallet when requested.

Use the USB cable or supported connection method appropriate for your Ledger device.

Step 4: Set Up or Connect Your Device

If you are setting up a new hardware wallet, follow the instructions shown by the Ledger device itself. Create your device PIN and carefully record your Secret Recovery Phrase according to Ledger's official instructions.

If you already have a Ledger device, follow the application instructions for connecting and managing the existing device.

Step 5: Install Supported Crypto Apps

Depending on the assets you want to manage, the application may require corresponding blockchain applications to be installed on the Ledger hardware wallet.

Only install applications and follow instructions presented through trusted Ledger software.

Step 6: Add or Manage Accounts

After the device is connected, follow the application prompts to add supported accounts. Your portfolio and account information can then be displayed within the desktop interface.

Step 7: Receive Assets

To receive cryptocurrency, select the appropriate account and generate a receiving address. Always compare the address shown by the application with the address displayed on your Ledger hardware device before using it.

Step 8: Send Assets

When sending cryptocurrency, enter the destination address and amount carefully. Review the transaction details on the Ledger hardware wallet itself before confirming the transaction.

Once a transaction is signed and broadcast, blockchain transactions may not be reversible.

Two Useful Links

1. Official Ledger Getting Started:
Ledger Start

2. Official Ledger Wallet/Desktop Information:
Ledger Wallet / Ledger Live

5 Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live was Ledger's companion application for managing Ledger hardware wallets. Ledger's current branding refers to the application as Ledger Wallet, formerly Ledger Live.

2. Where should I download the desktop application?

Use Ledger's official website and its download options for Windows, macOS, or Linux. Avoid unofficial websites and modified software packages.

3. Do I need a Ledger hardware wallet?

The Ledger desktop application is designed to work with Ledger hardware wallets for managing assets and authorizing supported transactions. The exact functionality depends on the device and service being used.

4. What is the Secret Recovery Phrase?

The Secret Recovery Phrase is highly sensitive wallet-recovery information. It should be kept private and stored securely offline. Never enter it into a website, form, chat, email, or message because someone claims to be Ledger Support.

5. Why should I verify an address on my Ledger device?

Checking transaction information directly on the hardware wallet helps you confirm what you are authorizing before signing. Always carefully verify the destination address and transaction amount.

Security Warning ⚠️

Never share your Secret Recovery Phrase or PIN with anyone. Ledger will not need your recovery phrase to provide ordinary support. Anyone who obtains your recovery phrase may be able to access the assets associated with that wallet.

Be especially cautious of fake Ledger websites, phishing emails, sponsored search results, social-media messages, fake support agents, and unofficial applications. Ledger's official website should be your starting point for downloading the application.

Before confirming a transaction, carefully inspect the details on your physical Ledger device. If an unexpected website or application asks you to reveal your recovery phrase, stop immediately.

Final Checklist

✓ Download the application from Ledger's official website.
✓ Keep your Ledger device and software updated.
✓ Protect your PIN and Secret Recovery Phrase.
✓ Verify addresses and transaction amounts on the hardware device.
✓ Avoid unofficial downloads and support accounts.
✓ Never approve a transaction you do not understand.

Important: Cryptocurrency transactions involve financial risk, and software interfaces and supported services can change. Always consult Ledger's current official documentation for the latest device, software, and compatibility information.