Ledger

Ledger Live Desktop

A secure desktop app to manage your crypto with your Ledger hardware device. Complete setup & usage guide, firmware update instructions, and key security practices.

Tip: Always download Ledger Live from the official start page (ledger.com/start) and never share your recovery phrase. (See security section below.)

Read the Guide Open Blog

Ledger Live Desktop — Step-by-step guide

Overview

Ledger Live Desktop is the desktop application that connects to your Ledger hardware device. It lets you create and manage accounts, install blockchain apps on your device, update device firmware safely, and monitor your portfolio.

1. Download & install safely

  1. Open your browser and manually type ledger.com/start. Download the Ledger Live installer matching your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux). :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
  2. Verify checksums/signatures where provided (Ledger provides signatures for installers). This reduces risk of fake installers. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
  3. Install the app and run it. Ledger Live will guide you through connecting your Ledger device.

2. Initial device setup

  1. When prompted on the device choose Set up as new device (unless restoring from your own recovery phrase).
  2. Create a secure PIN (on the device itself) and write down the 24-word recovery phrase on the provided sheets. Keep that paper offline and private — never type it into a computer or share it.

3. Install blockchain apps & add accounts

Open Manager in Ledger Live to install the apps you need (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.). Each app enables the device to sign transactions for that blockchain. Add accounts within Ledger Live after installing the needed apps. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

4. Firmware & app updates

Ledger releases firmware and app updates. Use Ledger Live's Manager to apply updates — the device will require you to confirm each update on the device itself. Always back up your recovery phrase before major updates. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

5. Transaction flow (send/receive)

To receive: use Ledger Live’s Receive flow to generate an address; verify it on the device before sharing. To send: create a transaction in Ledger Live and confirm it on your device. Always visually verify addresses on the device screen to avoid MITM risks.

6. Security best practices

  • Only download Ledger Live from ledger.com/start. Do not follow links in unsolicited emails. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
  • Never share your recovery phrase — Ledger or any legitimate support will never ask for it. Scammers distribute fake Ledger apps that try to trick users into revealing seed phrases; stay vigilant. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
  • Keep your device's firmware up to date and confirm actions directly on the hardware device.
  • Use strong unique passwords for any related accounts (but do not store your recovery phrase with cloud or email).

Blog — Ledger Live Desktop Insights

Why Ledger Live Desktop matters in 2025

Updated: 2025 • Beginner → Advanced

Ledger Live Desktop centralizes secure device management and simplifies app and firmware updates. Using Ledger Live correctly is foundational for protecting private keys while interacting with modern DeFi and multi-chain wallets. Recent releases continue to focus on security and UX improvements. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}

Common beginner mistakes

  • Downloading a fake installer — always use the official site.
  • Entering your recovery phrase into any app or web page — this is the single greatest risk.
  • Installing unnecessary apps on the device — keep only what you need.

Quick checklist before sending funds

  1. Is the address verified on the device?
  2. Is the app and firmware up to date?
  3. Have I confirmed the transaction on the hardware device screen?