Getting Started with Ledgér

Your assets, your keys, one desktop app.

Ledger® Live for desktop gives you a clear portfolio view, hardware‑verified transactions, and privacy‑minded Web3 access — all while your private keys remain sealed inside your Ledger device. This guide walks you through installation, first‑time setup, and the features you’ll use daily.

Install Ledger® Live (Desktop)

Choose the installer for your operating system and follow the guided flow. For safety, avoid mirrors and third‑party download sites. Where possible, verify signatures or checksums.

Windows: 64‑bit installer with smart prompts.
macOS: Universal builds for Apple Silicon and Intel.
Linux: AppImage and popular package formats.
Go to Official Downloads

First‑time setup in 7 steps

  1. Connect: Plug in your Ledger device and unlock with PIN.
  2. Open: Launch Ledger® Live and select Get Started.
  3. Update (if suggested): Follow firmware and device app updates. Keep your recovery phrase offline.
  4. Add Accounts: Pick networks (BTC, ETH, etc.), install coin apps on your device, and scan accounts.
  5. Verify Receive: Display the address on your device. Share it only if both screens match.
  6. Send a Test: Try a small transfer to ensure everything works end‑to‑end.
  7. Organize: Label accounts, star favorites, and enable analytics as needed.

What you can do in Ledger® Live

  • Portfolio & Analytics: See balances, allocation, and performance across accounts.
  • Send & Receive: Generate verified addresses and set fees with clarity.
  • Staking & Rewards: Stake supported assets and track yields without leaving the app.
  • Swap & Buy/Sell: Use integrated partners to exchange or purchase assets directly from the dashboard.
  • App Manager: Install and manage coin apps on your device; keep firmware up to date via the official flow.
  • Web3 Access: Connect to compatible dApps with hardware‑level confirmations.

Troubleshooting (desktop)

Device not detected? Try a different USB cable/port, update OS drivers, and relaunch Ledger® Live.
App install failed? Free device space by removing unused coin apps, then retry.
Address mismatch? Trust your device display. If screens differ, cancel and reconnect.
Linux permissions: Add appropriate udev rules or run the provided script to allow USB access.

FAQ

Is Ledger® Live free?

Yes. The desktop app is free to download and use with Ledger devices. Integrated third‑party services may charge fees for trades or staking.

Does Ledger® Live store my private keys?

No. Private keys remain sealed inside your Ledger hardware wallet. The app displays data and initiates actions you approve on‑device.

Can I use Ledger® Live on multiple computers?

Yes. Install the app on each trusted machine and connect the same hardware wallet to sync accounts securely.

Which assets are supported?

Support varies by network and availability of coin apps. Use Add Accounts in Ledger® Live to see what’s currently supported for your device.

Educational template. Not affiliated with Ledger®. Trademarks belong to their owners.