Why start using Ledger Live on desktop?
Starting Ledger Live on desktop gives you a secure wallet app environment that combines the best of hardware wallet security and desktop convenience. Ledger Live acts as the interface — the secure wallet app — that sends transaction requests to your Ledger device. The Ledger hardware wallet isolates private keys inside a secure element, and Ledger Live displays balances, market prices, and transaction history. Start using Ledger Live on desktop for daily portfolio tracking and keep custody with your Ledger device for signing. This combination makes Ledger Live one of the leading secure desktop wallets for people who want control and safety.
System requirements & compatibility
Before you start using Ledger Live on desktop, check that your computer meets system requirements. Ledger maintains current OS compatibility and installer signatures on the official download page. In general, Ledger Live desktop is available for Windows (64-bit), macOS (modern releases) and various popular Linux distributions; ensure you run a supported OS version to avoid incompatibilities. If you have older hardware, consider upgrading the OS or use the web/mobile companion to manage day-to-day tasks while keeping your recovery phrase secure.
- Supported desktop OS: Windows, macOS, Linux (check the official page for exact versions).
- USB port required to connect Ledger hardware wallets (or Bluetooth for certain Ledger devices).
- Internet connection required for initial install and updates; private keys remain on-device.
Download, verify, and install — the safe way to start
When you are ready to start using Ledger Live on desktop, follow these safety-first steps:
- Download from the official Ledger website: Always get Ledger Live from the official source to avoid counterfeit installers.
- Verify signatures: Ledger publishes cryptographic hashes and signatures for installer files; verify them before installation to ensure authenticity.
- Follow the onboarding guide: Open the Ledger Live app, connect your Ledger hardware wallet, and follow the "Add an account" and "Manager" sections to install device apps and create accounts for each crypto asset.
- Confirm on device: Transactions, app installations, and firmware updates must be confirmed directly on the Ledger device screen — this is fundamental to the secure wallet app model.
Onboarding — step-by-step to start using Ledger Live on desktop
Use the official onboarding flow to start using Ledger Live on desktop safely. Typical steps include:
- Install Ledger Live from the official site and run the installer.
- Open Ledger Live and choose “Set up a new device” or “Restore from recovery phrase” depending on your situation.
- Follow prompts to install the required device apps via the Manager tab.
- Create accounts in Ledger Live for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage.
- Verify receive addresses in Ledger Live and on your device before sharing them.
Security best practices while using the secure wallet app
To maintain the benefits of a secure wallet app, adopt these best practices once you start using Ledger Live on desktop:
- Never enter your recovery phrase into any computer or app — it should only be entered on a genuine Ledger device during recovery flows.
- Store your recovery phrase offline in secure locations; consider fireproof and waterproof storage options.
- Keep Ledger Live up-to-date and verify installer signatures on major updates.
- Confirm every transaction directly on your Ledger device’s screen before approving in Ledger Live.
- Monitor official communications for security advisories and follow recommended actions immediately if a threat is reported.
Advanced features after you start
Once you start using Ledger Live on desktop, explore advanced features of the secure wallet app to make the most of your setup:
- Swap & exchange integrations: Use built-in swap providers to exchange assets while signing on-device.
- Staking support: Stake supported coins from Ledger Live without exposing private keys.
- Portfolio management: Track performance, tax reporting data (where available), and account histories.
- Developer & enterprise integrations: Use Ledger signing libraries to integrate hardware-backed security into larger workflows.
Stay alert: common threats and how to avoid them
Even when you start using Ledger Live on desktop, attackers attempt to trick users with counterfeit apps and phishing. Here’s how to stay safe:
- Fake installers: Download only from the official site and verify installer signatures before running them.
- Phishing pages & emails: Never follow unsolicited links that ask you to “log in” or “enter your seed”; Ledger Live does not ask for your recovery phrase.
- Malware on desktop: Keep OS and antivirus updated and avoid running unknown binaries that could replace authentic apps.
- Social engineering: Support agents will never ask for your recovery phrase; treat requests for private keys or seed words as immediate red flags.
Following these guidelines will help you keep the security model of the secure wallet app intact after you start using Ledger Live on desktop.
Help, support, and learning resources
If you encounter issues while you start using Ledger Live on desktop, consult official support resources. Official documentation includes installers, verification instructions, step-by-step onboarding, and troubleshooting. Use the support center rather than third-party guides when in doubt, and report suspicious apps or messages immediately.
Final checklist before you begin
Before you click the download button to start using Ledger Live on desktop, run this short checklist:
- Confirm you are on the official download page.
- Verify installer signature (when provided) against Ledger’s published hashes.
- Have your Ledger hardware wallet and PIN ready.
- Record recovery phrase on physical paper or recommended backup device — never in digital storage.
- Plan a firmware update if prompted, and confirm firmware signatures on the device screen during update.