Download Ledger Live Desktop App
Begin your Ledger Live Desktop journey by downloading the official Ledger wallet app. Compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux, Ledger Live Desktop provides the most secure environment for managing your cryptocurrency portfolio across 5500+ coins and tokens.
Windows 10/11
Download Ledger Live Desktop for Windows with full USB support for Ledger Nano S and Nano X hardware wallets.
macOS Catalina+
Secure macOS installation with native Apple Silicon support and Time Machine backups compatibility.
Linux Ubuntu
Linux Ledger Live Desktop app supports all major distributions with udev rules configuration.
Ledger Live Desktop Setup Steps
Follow these comprehensive Ledger Live getting started instructions to initialize your hardware wallet securely. The setup process takes approximately 10-15 minutes.
Install Ledger Live Desktop
Run the downloaded installer and follow on-screen prompts. Ledger Live Desktop requires 300MB disk space and administrator privileges for USB device access.
Connect Ledger Device
Plug your Ledger Nano S or Ledger Nano X into USB port. Ensure Ledger Live Desktop detects your hardware wallet automatically.
Initialize Device
Set device PIN (4-8 digits) and write down your 24-word recovery phrase on official Ledger recovery sheet. Never store digitally.
Verify Recovery Phrase
Ledger device will ask to verify 3-4 words from recovery phrase. This confirms physical possession and prevents remote attacks.
Sync Accounts
Add Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other accounts. Ledger Live Desktop syncs balances securely without exposing private keys.
Ledger Live Desktop Security Features
Official Ledger Wallet App employs enterprise-grade security combining hardware isolation with desktop-grade encryption protocols.
Secure Element Chip
CC EAL5+ certified chip stores private keys offline. Ledger Live Desktop never accesses private keys directly.
Blind Signing Protection
Clear transaction data display on Ledger device before approval. Prevents malicious smart contract execution.
Bluetooth Security (Nano X)
Ledger Nano X Bluetooth encrypted with AES-128. Pairing requires physical button confirmation.
Common Security Mistakes to Avoid
- Never enter recovery phrase on any website or software
- Verify Ledger Live Desktop app signature before installation
- Use official USB cable provided with Ledger device
- Enable passphrase for additional security layer
- Regularly update Ledger Live Desktop and device firmware
Advanced Ledger Live Desktop Features
Once basic setup completes, unlock powerful portfolio management tools in Ledger Live Desktop.
Real-time Portfolio Tracking
Monitor 5500+ cryptocurrencies across 50+ blockchains. Historical charts, profit/loss analytics, and market data integration.
NFT Gallery Manager
Secure storage and display for Ethereum/Polygon NFTs. Direct marketplace integration without private key exposure.
Native Staking Interface
Stake ETH 2.0, SOL, ATOM directly from Ledger Live Desktop. Hardware wallet signing for staking transactions.
Ledger Live Desktop Troubleshooting
Resolve common Ledger Live Desktop issues quickly with these verified solutions.
Device Not Recognized
Install Ledger drivers, try different USB port/cable, restart Ledger Live Desktop application.
Firmware Update Failed
Close all crypto apps on Ledger device, enable "blind signing" temporarily, retry update.
Account Sync Issues
Clear cache in Settings > Help > Clear Cache, restart sync process for individual accounts.