Ledger® Live — Desktop
Getting started with Ledgér on your computer — secure, offline-first signing

Ledger Live Desktop — set up, secure, manage

Ledger Live Desktop is the recommended way to manage your Ledger hardware wallet from a computer. This guide walks you through downloading, initializing, restoring, and using Live while preserving the security guarantees of your device.

DESK
Optimized for desktop
Full-featured Manager, app store, and Discover integrations for desktop power users.
Quick desktop setup
1
Download from official site
Visit ledger.com/start and choose the Desktop download for your operating system. Verify the installer signature when available.
2
Install & launch
Run the installer, open Ledger Live, and follow the initial prompts. Grant permissions only when necessary and from official dialogs.
3
Connect your Ledger
Use the official USB cable. The desktop app will guide you to initialize a new device or restore from your recovery phrase.

Manager & apps

Install blockchain-specific apps on your Ledger device directly from the Manager tab. Each app is necessary to access its corresponding blockchain.

Portfolio & analytics

Track balances, performance, and transaction history across accounts with portfolio tools and custom alerts.

Discover & integrations

Explore vetted DeFi partners, swaps, and third-party services through desktop integrations while preserving on-device confirmations.

In-depth desktop setup

The desktop app gives you control and visibility — use it to manage firmware, install apps, and interact with DeFi partners while always approving sensitive operations on-device.

Download & verify

Always download Ledger Live Desktop from ledger.com/start. When available, verify the installer checksum or signature using the published values to ensure integrity. Avoid downloads from third-party sites and never follow links sent in unsolicited messages.

Initialize or restore

Choose between creating a new device (generates a new recovery phrase) or restoring from an existing 24-word phrase. If restoring, enter the recovery phrase only on the Ledger device itself — the desktop app will never ask to paste or store the seed.

Manager: installing blockchain apps

Open the Manager tab to install apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.) to your Ledger device. Each app requires space on the device — installing an app doesn't move funds; it enables Ledger Live to construct compatible addresses.

Adding accounts

Add accounts for each blockchain after installing the corresponding app. Ledger Live scans the blockchain for transaction history and balances. For advanced users, you can manage multiple accounts for the same chain (different derivation paths) if needed.

Sending & receiving

To receive funds, copy the address shown in Ledger Live and verify it on your device screen. To send funds, construct the transaction in Ledger Live and double-check recipient, amount, and fees on your device before approving.

DeFi & dApp interactions

Use the desktop app's Discover page to connect to vetted DeFi providers and external dApps. The desktop environment may offer easier contract inspection and larger screens for reviewing transaction data; however, critical confirmations must still be done on-device.

Privacy & best practices

  • Use a dedicated machine for high-value operations when possible.
  • Revoke old approvals and review connected dApps occasionally.
  • Keep backups of your recovery phrase in secure, offline locations.

Security model and desktop-specific tips

Ledger Live Desktop combines usability with a hardware-enforced security model: your private keys never leave the device. Desktop advantages include easier firmware management and clearer UI for reviewing transactions, but desktops can also run malware — always verify transaction details on your Ledger screen.

Additional tips:

  1. Keep your OS and antivirus software updated.
  2. Use the desktop firewall to limit unnecessary outbound connections.
  3. When installing third-party apps, prefer those vetted by Ledger and listed in Discover.

Frequently asked questions

Can Ledger Live Desktop be used without a Ledger device?

You can view portfolio data in a read-only mode, but managing funds and signing transactions requires a Ledger hardware device.

How do I update firmware?

Firmware updates are initiated through Ledger Live Desktop's Manager. Follow on-screen prompts and verify the firmware fingerprint on the device before confirming.

What if Ledger Live won't recognize my device?

Try a different USB port or cable, ensure the device is unlocked, and check for OS permission dialogs. If problems persist, consult official support resources for troubleshooting steps.

Final checklist

  • Downloaded Ledger Live Desktop from ledger.com/start and verified it.
  • Initialized or restored device with recovery phrase entered only on-device.
  • Installed blockchain apps via the Manager and added accounts.
  • Performed a small test transaction to confirm end-to-end flow.