Ledger Live Desktop — Complete Install & Setup Guide

Introduction

Ledger Live Desktop is the official application by Ledger for managing your hardware wallet and cryptocurrencies. This guide will walk you through installing and setting up Ledger Live Desktop on Windows, macOS, and Linux, while providing tips for optimal security and usage.

System Requirements

Before installation, ensure your system meets the following requirements:

Note: Ledger Live does not work properly on outdated operating systems. Always update your OS for security.

Step 1: Download Ledger Live

Download the official Ledger Live Desktop app from the official website to avoid phishing attacks:

  1. Visit Ledger Live Official Website.
  2. Click on "Download" and choose your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux).
  3. Save the installer to your preferred location.

Security Tip: Always verify the PGP signature of the installer for maximum safety.

Step 2: Install Ledger Live

Follow the steps below to install Ledger Live on your system:

Windows

  1. Double-click the downloaded .exe file.
  2. Click "Next" and accept the license agreement.
  3. Select an installation folder and click "Install".
  4. Click "Finish" once the installation completes.

macOS

  1. Open the downloaded .dmg file.
  2. Drag and drop Ledger Live into the Applications folder.
  3. Eject the .dmg file and launch Ledger Live from Applications.

Linux

  1. Open the downloaded AppImage file.
  2. Right-click > Properties > Allow executing file as program.
  3. Double-click to launch Ledger Live.
Note: Always close other crypto wallets or apps before installing Ledger Live to prevent conflicts.

Step 3: Initial Setup

Once installed, open Ledger Live to start the setup process:

  1. Launch Ledger Live. You will see a welcome screen.
  2. Select "Get Started".
  3. Choose "Ledger Device" as the setup method.
  4. Confirm whether you are a new or existing user.

Tip: If you are new, create a recovery phrase backup. If existing, you can restore your wallet using your recovery phrase.

Step 4: Connect Your Ledger Device

Follow these instructions to connect your Ledger hardware wallet:

  1. Connect the Ledger device to your computer via USB.
  2. Unlock your device with your PIN code.
  3. Open the Ledger Live interface and select your device model.
  4. Follow on-screen instructions to allow Ledger Live access.
Security Tip: Never share your PIN or recovery phrase. Ledger Live will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase directly.

Step 5: Install Apps on Ledger Device

Ledger Live uses apps to manage different cryptocurrencies. Here's how to install them:

  1. Open the “Manager” tab in Ledger Live.
  2. Connect and unlock your device.
  3. Click "Install" next to the cryptocurrency app you want (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
  4. Wait for the installation to complete. You can install multiple apps as needed.

Step 6: Add Accounts

After apps are installed, add accounts to Ledger Live:

  1. Go to the "Accounts" tab.
  2. Click "Add Account".
  3. Select the cryptocurrency and account type.
  4. Follow prompts to sync your Ledger device and import your addresses.

You can add multiple accounts for different currencies and manage them from a single interface.

Step 7: Sending and Receiving Cryptocurrency

Ledger Live makes sending and receiving crypto secure and easy:

Receive

  1. Go to the "Receive" tab.
  2. Select the account and currency.
  3. Verify the address on your Ledger device and copy it.
  4. Share the address to receive funds safely.

Send

  1. Go to the "Send" tab.
  2. Enter recipient address and amount.
  3. Verify the transaction on your Ledger device.
  4. Confirm to send.

Step 8: Updating Firmware

Keeping your Ledger firmware up-to-date is critical for security:

  1. Open Ledger Live and go to "Manager".
  2. Connect and unlock your device.
  3. Follow prompts to update firmware if available.
  4. Never disconnect during updates.
Warning: Firmware updates may require your recovery phrase. Ensure it is backed up safely.

Tips for Secure Use

Troubleshooting

Common issues and solutions: