Overview — Ledger Live Desktop Getting Started
Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application to operate your Ledger hardware wallet. This Ledger Live Desktop: Getting Started guide helps you install Ledger Live on Windows, macOS, or Linux, initialize your Ledger device, create and protect your recovery phrase, install currency apps, and begin managing Bitcoin, Ethereum and many altcoins on desktop.
This guide focuses on Ledger Live Desktop setup—clear steps, security-first practices, and tips to get your Ledger Wallet Desktop running quickly and safely.
Before you start — what you need
Prepare your computer and workspace. Download Ledger Live Desktop only from ledger.com/ledger-live. Use a secure computer, up-to-date browser and the USB cable included with your Ledger device. Do not enter your recovery phrase online or store it digitally. Keep the recovery sheet offline.
Keywords to remember: Ledger Live Desktop, Ledger Device Setup, Ledger Wallet Desktop, Ledger Live Getting Started.
Setup Steps — Ledger Live Desktop Getting Started (Detailed)
1. Install Ledger Live Desktop
Download the Ledger Live Desktop installer for your OS. Run the installer and open the Ledger Live app. Choose "Get Started" and follow the clear wizard. Ledger Live Desktop will check for updates — install them to ensure Ledger Live and your Ledger device firmware are current.
2. Initialize your Ledger device
When prompted, connect your Ledger device to your computer. Select "Set up as new device" on the device screen if it is new, or "Restore device" if you already have a recovery phrase. Using Ledger Live Desktop, follow on-screen instructions to verify firmware and confirm device authenticity.
3. Create and protect your recovery phrase
Ledger provides a 24-word recovery phrase. Write the 24 words down on the supplied recovery card and store it in a secure, offline location. Never take a photo or copy the phrase to a computer. Your recovery phrase is the ultimate key to your funds—treat it with highest priority.
4. Create a PIN on-device
Choose a strong PIN directly on your Ledger device. PIN entry is performed on the device only — this prevents remote attacks and keyloggers on your desktop. Memorize or store your PIN safely; don't share it.
5. Install apps and add accounts
Open Ledger Live Desktop, go to Manager and install the currency apps you need (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Then add accounts in Ledger Live to manage each currency. Ledger Live Desktop displays balances, transaction history, and portfolio overview.
6. Send and receive crypto securely
Use Ledger Live Desktop to create receive addresses and sign transactions with your Ledger device. Always confirm addresses on the device screen before sending. Ledger Live Desktop ensures private keys never leave your Ledger hardware wallet.
7. Update firmware and app versions
Regularly check Ledger Live Desktop for firmware and app updates. Only update via the official Ledger Live Desktop app and official prompts to maintain top security. Do not trust third-party update prompts or unsolicited messages.
Best Practices — Keep Ledger Live Desktop secure
Use strong, unique passphrases for online services, keep your recovery phrase offline, avoid public Wi-Fi when transacting, and enable OS-level security on your desktop. Ledger Live Desktop provides robust protection but your practices matter: treat your recovery phrase like a physical key and never disclose it.
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FAQ — Ledger Live Desktop Getting Started
Q: Can I use Ledger Live Desktop on multiple computers?
A: Yes — Ledger Live Desktop can be installed on multiple machines. Your crypto remains safe because private keys are stored on the Ledger device, not the desktop.
Q: What happens if I lose my device?
A: Restore your wallet on a new Ledger device or compatible wallet using the 24-word recovery phrase you saved during setup.
Q: Is Ledger Live Desktop free?
A: Yes, Ledger Live Desktop is free to download and use. Always download Ledger Live Desktop from the official Ledger site.