Ledger® Live: Desktop | Getting Started with Ledger

Introduction

Ledger Live is the official companion app for Ledger hardware wallets, providing a secure and user-friendly interface to manage your cryptocurrencies. Whether you're new to Ledger or an experienced user, this guide will walk you through setting up Ledger Live on your desktop and using it to manage your crypto assets safely.

By the end of this guide, you’ll know how to:

Download and install Ledger Live
Set up your Ledger hardware wallet
Add and manage cryptocurrency accounts
Send and receive crypto securely
Use advanced features like staking and DeFi integrations

1. Downloading and Installing Ledger Live

Step 1: Visit the Official Ledger Website

To ensure security, always download Ledger Live from the official website:
👉 https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live

Avoid third-party websites to prevent malware or fake versions.

Step 2: Choose Your Operating System

Ledger Live supports:

Windows (10 & 11, 64-bit)
macOS (10.15 Catalina & later)
Linux (Ubuntu, Fedora, etc.)

Download the correct version for your OS.

Step 3: Install Ledger Live

Windows: Run the .exe file and follow the installation prompts.
macOS: Open the .dmg file and drag Ledger Live to Applications.
Linux: Use the .AppImage or .deb/.rpm package.

Once installed, open Ledger Live.

2. Setting Up Your Ledger Hardware Wallet

Step 1: Initialize Your Ledger Device

If you have a new Ledger (Nano S, Nano X, or Nano S Plus), follow these steps:

Connect your Ledger to your computer via USB.
Power on the device and follow on-screen instructions.
Choose "Set up as new device."
Write down your 24-word recovery phrase (store it securely, never digitally).
Confirm the recovery phrase by re-entering the words.

⚠️ Never share your recovery phrase! Anyone with these words can steal your crypto.

Step 2: Install Ledger Live App

Open Ledger Live and select "Get started."
Choose "Ledger device" and follow the prompts.
Install apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).

3. Adding Crypto Accounts in Ledger Live

Step 1: Open the Accounts Tab

Click "Accounts" in the left menu.
Select "Add account."

Step 2: Choose a Cryptocurrency

Select the crypto you want to add (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
Confirm on your Ledger device.

Step 3: Name Your Account

Assign a recognizable name (e.g., "BTC Savings") and click "Add account."

Repeat for all desired cryptocurrencies.

4. Sending & Receiving Crypto with Ledger Live

Receiving Crypto

Go to "Accounts" and select the relevant wallet.
Click "Receive."
Verify the address on your Ledger device (ensure it matches).
Share the address with the sender.

Sending Crypto

Select the account and click "Send."
Enter the recipient’s address (double-check for errors).
Input the amount and confirm fees.
Verify the transaction on your Ledger device before approving.

5. Advanced Features in Ledger Live

Staking & Earning Rewards

Ledger Live supports staking for:

Ethereum (ETH)
Polkadot (DOT)
Solana (SOL)
Cosmos (ATOM)

Go to "Earn Rewards" in the left menu.
Choose a supported crypto and follow the steps to delegate.

DeFi & Web3 Integrations

Ledger Live connects with:

MetaMask (for Ethereum dApps)
WalletConnect (for mobile DeFi apps)
Staking platforms like Lido and Aave

Enable "Experimental Features" in settings for early access to new integrations.

6. Security Best Practices

✅ Always verify transactions on your Ledger device.
✅ Never share your 24-word recovery phrase.
✅ Use a strong PIN for your Ledger.
✅ Enable 2FA for Ledger Live (optional but recommended).
✅ Keep firmware & apps updated.

Conclusion

Ledger Live is a powerful tool for securely managing your crypto assets. By following this guide, you’ve learned how to:
✔ Install Ledger Live
✔ Set up your Ledger wallet
✔ Add and manage accounts
✔ Send and receive crypto
✔ Use staking and DeFi features

For further support, visit:
🔗 Ledger Support