Getting™ Started | Ledger® Live: Desktop® | Official® Site

The gateway to your crypto journey. Secure, manage, and grow your assets in one place.

Download Ledger Live

Welcome to the Future of Self-Custody

In an era where digital sovereignty is paramount, Ledger Live Desktop stands as the definitive interface for your hardware wallet. It is more than just an application; it is a secure command center designed to bridge the gap between your physical Ledger device and the vast world of Web3 and decentralized finance (DeFi).

Whether you are a seasoned collector of NFTs or a first-time Bitcoin buyer, the Ledger ecosystem provides the highest level of security through its proprietary Secure Element (SE) chips and BOLOS operating system. By using the desktop application, you ensure that your private keys never leave the safety of your device, providing peace of mind in an increasingly volatile digital landscape.

Why Choose Ledger Live for Your Desktop?

While mobile apps offer convenience, the desktop experience provides a comprehensive overview of your portfolio, enabling complex interactions with dApps and more detailed transaction management.

Step-by-Step Installation & Setup

Step 1: Download & Verification

Always ensure you are downloading the software from the official source. Verify the checksum of the installer to guarantee the integrity of the file. Ledger Live is compatible with Windows 10+, macOS 10.15+, and Linux.

Step 2: Connect Your Device

Using the provided USB cable, connect your Ledger hardware wallet to your computer. Enter your PIN code on the device. Ledger Live will perform a "Genuine Check" to ensure your device hasn't been tampered with during the supply chain process.

Step 3: Creating Your Accounts

To see your balance, you must add an "Account" for each cryptocurrency. For instance, to hold Bitcoin, click "Add Account," select Bitcoin, and follow the on-screen instructions to synchronize with the blockchain. Your Ledger Live will then fetch your transaction history and display your balance.

Security First: Protecting Your Wealth

Security is a shared responsibility. While Ledger protects your private keys, you must protect your 24-word Recovery Phrase. This phrase is the master key to your funds. If you lose your device, this phrase allows you to restore your assets on any compatible wallet.

Warning: Never type your 24 words into a computer, take a photo of them, or share them with anyone claiming to be "Ledger Support." Ledger will NEVER ask for your recovery phrase.

Official Web Links & Resources

For your safety, only use the following verified links for support and downloads:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use Ledger Live Desktop without a hardware wallet?

No. Ledger Live is an interface for Ledger hardware wallets. While you can view your portfolio in "Read-only" mode, you cannot perform any transactions or manage accounts without a physical device to sign the data.

2. Is my crypto stored "inside" Ledger Live?

No. Your crypto exists on the blockchain. Ledger Live is a window that allows you to interact with those assets. Your private keys, which prove ownership, remain offline inside the Secure Element chip of your hardware wallet.

3. What should I do if my Ledger Live isn't syncing?

First, check your internet connection. Then, ensure your Ledger Live version is up to date. You can also try "Clear Cache" in the Settings > Help menu, which forces the app to re-scan the blockchain for your accounts.

4. Can I manage NFTs through Ledger Live Desktop?

Yes! Ledger Live natively supports Ethereum and Polygon NFTs. You can view your collection, send, and receive NFTs directly through the "My Ledger" and "Accounts" sections.

5. Is Ledger Live Desktop free to use?

Absolutely. The software is free to download and use. You only pay the standard blockchain network fees (gas fees) when you send transactions, which go to miners/validators, not to Ledger.

Getting™ Started | Ledger® Live: Desktop® | Official® Site