📘 Introduction
Ledger® Live Desktop is the official desktop app used with Ledger hardware wallets (Nano S, Nano S Plus, and Nano X). It allows you to manage your crypto, install apps, access DeFi tools, stake tokens, and more. With Ledger, your private keys remain offline and safe.
🧰 What You Need Before You Start
- 🟢 A Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S, S Plus, or X)
- 💻 A computer with Windows 10+, macOS 10.14+, or Linux
- 🔌 A USB cable for connecting your Ledger device
- 🌐 Internet connection for app updates and synchronization
⬇️ Downloading Ledger Live
- Visit the official site: ledger.com/ledger-live
- Select the appropriate version for your operating system
- Download and open the installer
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete installation
🔒 Setting Up Your Ledger Device
Once Ledger Live is installed, plug in your Ledger device and follow these steps:
- Choose to "Initialize as new device" or "Restore from recovery phrase"
- Write down the 24-word recovery phrase (offline only!)
- Set a secure PIN on the device
- Confirm device authenticity using Ledger Live
💡 Exploring the Dashboard
After setup, you’ll enter the Ledger Live dashboard. Here's what you can do:
- 📊 View portfolio balances and charts
- 💸 Send and receive crypto assets securely
- 📦 Install blockchain apps via the Manager
- 💱 Swap coins using built-in exchange tools
- 🪙 Stake supported assets and earn rewards
🔗 Supported Coins
Ledger Live supports 5,500+ tokens and coins including:
- 🟠 Bitcoin (BTC)
- 🟣 Ethereum (ETH) & all ERC-20 tokens
- 🔵 Solana (SOL)
- 🟢 Polygon, Binance Smart Chain, Avalanche, and more
For a full list, visit Ledger Supported Assets.
🌐 Connect to Web3 & DeFi
Ledger Live allows you to securely interact with Web3 applications and DeFi protocols via WalletConnect or Ledger Extension.
- 🦊 Use MetaMask with Ledger to access dApps
- 🔁 Trade on decentralized exchanges (DEXs)
- 🎨 Manage NFTs with third-party integrations
🔁 Regular Updates
Ledger regularly pushes updates to improve performance and security. Always update:
- 🛠️ Ledger Live App
- 📲 Firmware on your Ledger device
- 📦 Apps installed on the device
Go to Settings → About → "Check for updates" to stay up to date.
🧠 Tips for Safe Usage
- ✅ Always double-check addresses before sending
- 📵 Never share your recovery phrase — not even with Ledger support
- 🔐 Use passphrase feature for hidden wallets
- 👀 Enable "Discreet Mode" to hide balances in public
- 💬 Bookmark the official site to avoid phishing
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use Ledger Live on multiple devices?
A: Yes. Just install Ledger Live and connect your Ledger wallet on each device.
Q: What happens if I lose my Ledger?
A: Use your 24-word recovery phrase to restore your wallet on a new device.
Q: Is Ledger Live open-source?
A: Yes! Ledger Live code is publicly available on GitHub.
📋 Final Checklist Before You Start
- ✅ Device PIN set
- ✅ Recovery phrase backed up (offline)
- ✅ Ledger Live installed from official website
- ✅ All firmware and apps up to date
- ✅ Password-protected computer