Getting™ Started | Ledger® Live: Desktop®

Ledger® Live Desktop — Getting Started

Getting started with a Ledger hardware wallet begins with installing the official desktop application and connecting your Ledger device. Ledger's current website refers to the application formerly known as Ledger Live as Ledger Wallet™, while many existing users may still recognize the software by its former name, Ledger Live. The desktop application is designed to provide an interface for managing supported cryptocurrency accounts while using a Ledger hardware wallet to protect private keys. Ledger currently provides desktop downloads for Windows, macOS, and Linux. Download the Official Ledger Desktop App

The safest way to begin is to navigate directly to Ledger's official website rather than downloading wallet software from an advertisement, third-party website, or an unfamiliar link.

Official Ledger download: 

From the official page, select the version appropriate for your computer. Ledger provides downloads for Windows, macOS, and Linux. 

After downloading the installer, complete the installation according to the instructions for your operating system. Once installation is finished, launch the application.

Connect Your Ledger Device

After opening the desktop application, connect your compatible Ledger hardware wallet to your computer using the appropriate connection method.

Unlock the device using its PIN when requested. The Ledger application can then guide you through the relevant setup process.

If you are setting up a new device, follow the instructions displayed by both the application and the physical Ledger device. If you already have a configured Ledger device, the application can be used to access and manage compatible accounts.

Set Up Your Wallet Securely

During initial setup, security information must be handled carefully. Your recovery information is particularly important because it can provide the ability to restore access to your wallet.

Write down your recovery information as instructed during the genuine device setup process and store it somewhere secure and private.

Install Cryptocurrency Apps

After your device is configured, you can use the Ledger application to install supported cryptocurrency applications on the hardware wallet.

Ledger's current instructions identify the My Ledger section as the place where users can manage and install applications for supported cryptocurrencies. 

The available applications depend on the cryptocurrency and device being used. Once an appropriate application is installed, you can create or manage the corresponding account through the Ledger software.

Manage Your Crypto

Ledger Wallet provides an interface for viewing and managing supported digital assets. Depending on the cryptocurrency and available services, users can perform activities such as sending, receiving, buying, exchanging, staking, and monitoring assets. 

When sending cryptocurrency, always check the recipient address and transaction information carefully. Ledger's security model requires transaction approval through the hardware wallet, giving users an opportunity to verify important details before confirming an operation. 

Security Tips for Desktop Users

A secure setup involves more than installing the correct application. Keep your computer updated, use a trusted connection, and avoid installing wallet software from unofficial sources.

Be cautious of websites using phrases such as “Ledger Live Login,” “Ledger Activation,” or “Ledger Support.” A page can look genuine while actually attempting to obtain sensitive information.

If someone contacts you unexpectedly and asks for your recovery phrase, PIN, or private keys, stop communicating with them and use Ledger's official support resources instead.

Disclaimer

Disclaimer: This article is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. It is an independently written guide and is not an official publication, endorsement, or representation of Ledger SAS. “Ledger Live” is the former name of Ledger's application, which Ledger currently identifies as Ledger Wallet™ on its website. 

Product names, features, supported assets, services, operating-system compatibility, and setup procedures may change over time. Users should verify the latest information directly through Ledger's official website and support documentation before installing software, connecting a device, or conducting a cryptocurrency transaction.