Download & Verify Ledger Live Desktop

The safest way to obtain Ledger Live Desktop is to visit the official product page: ledger.com/ledger-live. Ledger provides installers for Windows, macOS, and Linux. After downloading, verify any provided signatures (when available) and compare checksums if Ledger publishes them. This extra verification step helps ensure the binary has not been tampered with.

Ledger also lists step-by-step setup instructions at ledger.com/start, which is helpful for first-time hardware wallet users connecting a Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X.

Initial Setup & Connecting Your Device

Once Ledger Live is installed, open the app and connect your Ledger device using the supplied USB cable or Bluetooth (where supported). Follow the on-screen onboarding to create or restore a wallet. Ledger devices generate a recovery phrase (24 words by default) — this is the ultimate key to your assets and must be kept secret and backed up offline.

  1. Open Ledger Live and choose "Get Started".
  2. Connect your Ledger device and follow prompts to create a new device or restore from a recovery phrase.
  3. Install desired apps on the Ledger device (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.) via Ledger Live's Manager.
  4. Use the Accounts tab to add accounts and view balances.

For detailed step-by-step visual guidance, consult ledger.com/start and the support articles on support.ledger.com.

Security Best Practices — essential habits

Ledger Live Desktop, when combined with a Ledger hardware device, forms one of the most robust consumer-grade approaches to custody. Still, users must follow disciplined habits:

  • Never share your 24-word recovery phrase: Ledger staff or support will never ask for it.
  • Store backups offline: write your seed on paper or use a metal backup plate and keep copies in secure, separate locations.
  • Verify downloads: only download Ledger Live from ledger.com/ledger-live.
  • Use official hardware: purchase devices exclusively from shop.ledger.com or trusted retailers.
  • Keep software updated: install OS, browser, and Ledger Live updates promptly; check status and advisories at status.ledger.com.

Following these steps reduces the risk of compromise from phishing, malware, or physical loss.

Portfolio Management & Staking

Ledger Live Desktop offers a unified portfolio view where you can track balances across multiple accounts and chains. It supports staking for select assets directly within the app, allowing you to earn rewards while keeping custody with your Ledger device. Monitor staking rewards and unstaking timelines in the app, and consult Ledger's official staking guides on support.ledger.com for chain-specific instructions.

Use the "Portfolio" and "Accounts" tabs to label accounts, export transaction history, and keep records for tax or accounting purposes.

DeFi & NFT Access — securely connect to applications

Ledger Live Desktop integrates with vetted DeFi providers and bridges to allow interaction with decentralized exchanges and liquidity protocols. When connecting to dApps, transactions must be confirmed physically on your Ledger device — this step prevents remote actors from approving transactions without your explicit consent.

For NFTs, Ledger Live allows you to view and manage collectibles linked to addresses you control. For market interactions, prefer reputable marketplaces and always verify contract addresses before approving operations.

Developer Notes — integrations & testing

Developers building dApps should recommend hardware wallet usage for security-conscious users. To integrate with Ledger workflows, ensure compatibility with standard providers (e.g., Web3 providers) and provide testnet paths for user onboarding. Clear transaction descriptions and transparent gas estimates significantly reduce accidental approvals.

Migration & Device Replacement

If you replace a lost or damaged Ledger device, restore your accounts using your seed on a new Ledger device. Always verify the new device's integrity and, if the old device is compromised, move high-value funds to a fresh seed created on a secure device. For hardware purchases, order only from shop.ledger.com to ensure authenticity.

Troubleshooting & FAQ

Q: Where do I download Ledger Live safely?
A: From ledger.com/ledger-live only. Verify signatures and checksums if provided.

Q: Can Ledger Live be used without a Ledger device?
A: You can install the app and explore its UI, but to sign and send transactions you must connect a Ledger device.

Q: I lost my recovery phrase — can I recover my funds?
A: Without a recovery phrase or private key backup, funds cannot be recovered. Ledger's support pages explain recovery best practices: support.ledger.com.