Overview
Ledger Live Desktop is the official software interface for Ledger hardware wallets. It enables you to manage multiple accounts across many blockchains, install and update per-coin apps on your device, verify firmware authenticity, and sign transactions locally — keeping private keys isolated on your hardware device. This guide focuses on a safe, practical desktop workflow for individuals and power users.
Tip: Always download Ledger Live from ledger.com/start or the official site. Avoid third-party downloads or links from social media.
Install & Get Ready
Ledger Live is available for Windows, macOS and Linux. From the official start page, choose your platform and install the desktop client. macOS users should ensure they download the correct ARM/x86 build for their machine. During installation, the app will request permission to communicate with USB devices; grant access so your Ledger can connect.
After installation, open Ledger Live and follow the initial onboarding steps. If you already have a Ledger hardware wallet, the app will detect it when connected and unlocked.
Device Setup
When connecting a new Ledger device, the screen will guide you to create a PIN and display a recovery phrase (24 words). Write the recovery phrase on the supplied recovery sheet — never photograph or store it digitally. Ledger Live will prompt you to confirm the device and may offer a firmware update; approve updates only after verifying the device messages shown on the hardware screen.
- PIN: local device authentication — required each time you connect the device when performing sensitive operations.
- Recovery phrase: offline, physical backup — the single method to restore your accounts.
- Firmware: always install official firmware through Ledger Live.
Security Best Practices
Ledger Live helps you maintain strong security by keeping private keys on the device and requiring user confirmation for each transaction. Follow these practices:
- Verify all addresses and transaction details on the physical device display before confirming.
- Never share your recovery phrase or enter it into a computer or website.
- Prefer a clean OS and limit third-party wallet software that requires private keys or full seed access.
- Use a passphrase (optional) for a hidden wallet if you understand the recovery limitations.
- Keep Ledger Live and device firmware updated; updates often include security patches and new features.
Important: Ledger support will never ask for your recovery phrase or PIN.
Manage Accounts & Apps
Ledger Live's Manager tab lets you install or remove per-coin apps on the device. Each app consumes device memory; install only what you need. The Accounts tab aggregates balances and transaction history from supported blockchains; you can add, name, and organize accounts by coin.
Use the following flow to add an account:
- Open Ledger Live → Click Accounts → Add Account.
- Select the coin and follow prompts on your device to open the coin app and allow synchronization.
- Ledger Live will scan the blockchain and populate account balances and transaction history.
Send & Receive — Safe Transaction Flow
When sending crypto, Ledger Live constructs the unsigned transaction and the Ledger device displays all critical details (address, amount, fee). Confirm each field carefully on the device screen before approving. For receiving, always verify the receive address on the device display rather than trusting the host computer.
Quick receive test: Generate a receiving address → Verify the address on your Ledger device → Send a small test amount from another wallet.
Advanced: Integrations & Developer Mode
Ledger Live supports integrations with third-party services (DeFi apps, NFT marketplaces) through a built-in bridge or via direct connection. Only connect to well-known, reputable services and always confirm operations on your device. Developers can enable advanced settings for debugging and developer flows — these are for advanced users and should be used with caution.
For institutional or multisig setups, Ledger's products integrate with enterprise-grade tooling; consult Ledger's documentation for best practices on custody and multisignature arrangements.
Troubleshooting & Support
Common issues include device not detected, firmware update interruptions, or synchronization errors. Steps to try:
- Try a different USB cable/port and unlock the device.
- Restart Ledger Live and your computer.
- Reinstall Ledger Live from the official start page.
- If firmware update fails, follow recovery instructions in Ledger Live — do not interrupt power during critical steps.
For unresolved issues, contact official support and provide the app logs and device model. Avoid sharing recovery phrases or PINs under any circumstances.