Getting started with Ledger Live Desktop®
This guide helps you take your first steps with Ledger Live Desktop®. By following these instructions, you will safely install the app, connect your Ledger device, set up a secure PIN, back up your recovery phrase, and create crypto accounts. You will also learn how to perform small test transactions and keep your setup secure from common threats.
Tip: Confirm each action on your hardware device. Always trust what is shown on the device screen over your computer display.
What you need
Never share your 24-word recovery phrase. Keep it offline at all times.
Install Ledger Live Desktop®
Visit the official Ledger website and download the Ledger Live installer for your operating system. Open the installer and follow prompts. On first launch, choose Set up as new device or Restore device if moving from an older Ledger.
Avoid downloading from third-party links; counterfeit apps can steal funds.
Download Official Ledger LiveInitialize your Ledger device
Connect the device, power it on, and select a secure PIN. Ledger Live Desktop® will then guide you through the 24-word recovery phrase. Write it down carefully in order, and store it securely. Confirm the phrase on the device when prompted.
Pro tip: Make two separate physical copies and store in secure locations. Never take a photo or save digitally.
- Use 6–8 digit PIN; avoid predictable sequences.
- Write down all 24 words legibly and in order.
- Confirm phrase on device; never type it on a computer.
- Keep phrase offline and private.
Connect Ledger Live Desktop®
Open Ledger Live and connect your device. Allow the app to verify its authenticity. Once verified, you will see the dashboard showing Accounts, Portfolio, and Manager. Install coin apps as needed to support your chosen cryptocurrencies.
Install only the apps you plan to use immediately. You can uninstall later without losing assets.
Create your first accounts
Click Accounts → Add account and select the crypto asset. Open the matching app on the Ledger device to sync addresses. Name accounts clearly for easy management and ensure full synchronization for accurate balances and history.
- Example: BTC – Main, ETH – Trading
- Allow complete sync for accurate data
- Check network fees before sending funds
Unsupported networks can be accessed via third-party wallets, but always verify addresses on the device screen.
Receive test funds
Select an account and click Receive. Confirm the address on your device. Send a small test transaction and verify confirmation to ensure everything works correctly.
Only after successful testing should you send larger amounts.
Send your first transaction
Click Send, enter a verified address, and review the transaction details on the device. Approve only if everything matches. Track the transaction on a block explorer.
Never approve a transaction you don’t fully understand. Double-check everything on the hardware screen.
Firmware & app updates
Check the Manager tab in Ledger Live Desktop® regularly. Update firmware only when your recovery phrase is safely stored and device battery is sufficient. Reinstall coin apps if necessary.
Updates improve security and performance. Schedule when uninterrupted.
Buy, swap, stake (advanced)
Ledger Live Desktop® partners allow buying, swapping, and staking. Start small, verify device confirmations, and review fees and regional availability.
Always understand risks and protocols before using these features.
Best practices for Ledger Live Desktop®
Your 24-word phrase is the ultimate backup. Protect it diligently to recover funds if the device is lost or damaged.
Common questions
- Is Ledger Live mandatory? No, but it’s the official companion. Always verify on-device.
- Can I remove apps? Yes. Accounts remain secure; apps can be reinstalled.
- Forgot PIN? Reset device and restore via 24-word phrase.
- Split phrase? Only if using a secure, understood Shamir backup scheme.
Final Checklist
- Ledger Live Desktop® installed from official source
- Device PIN set and 24-word phrase safely stored
- Genuine check and coin apps installed
- Accounts added and synchronized
- Test transactions successful
- Firmware and apps updated
Ready to manage crypto confidently. Always verify actions on the device itself.