📘 Ledger Live Desktop — Getting Started | Official Ledger Wallet
Managing your cryptocurrency securely and efficiently starts with the Ledger Live Desktop application — the official desktop companion to Ledger hardware wallets. Whether you are new to crypto or upgrading your security setup, this comprehensive guide walks you through everything from downloading the software to mastering advanced features. Always begin your crypto journey at the official ledger com-start page to avoid scams and fake downloads.
📎 What Is Ledger Live Desktop?
Ledger Live is the official software developed by Ledger that lets you manage your cryptocurrencies, NFTs, staking, and portfolio from your desktop while keeping your private keys secure on a Ledger hardware device (e.g., Nano S Plus, Nano X). Unlike online wallets or browser extensions, Ledger Live synchronizes with the blockchain while your keys remain safely stored offline.
With Ledger Live Desktop, you can:
Track your crypto portfolio in real time
Send, receive, and swap cryptocurrencies
Buy and sell directly inside the app
Manage NFTs and integrate Web3 applications
Install or update blockchain apps on your Ledger device
Receive notifications for firmware updates and security patches
This makes Ledger Live Desktop an essential tool for secure crypto management.
🛠️ Step 1: Start at the Official Ledger Setup — ledger com-start
The very first step to a secure setup is visiting the official onboarding portal at ledger.com/start — often referred to as ledger com-start. This is the legitimate and trusted destination for downloading Ledger software and following official setup instructions.
Cybercriminals often mimic Ledger to trick users into downloading fake applications, so always ensure the URL begins with:
**https://www.ledger.com/start**⎯this is your safest starting point.
📥 Step 2: Download & Install Ledger Live Desktop
Once you’re on ledger com-start, choose your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux) and download Ledger Live Desktop. Follow the installation instructions provided on the official page:
Click “Download” for your OS
Run the installer (.exe on Windows, .dmg on macOS, AppImage on Linux)
Follow the on-screen prompts to install the app
Always download Ledger Live only from the official ledger com-start source to ensure authenticity and safety.
🔐 Step 3: Ledger-Live Login & Pairing Your Device
Ledger-live login isn’t like logging into a website with a password — it uses your hardware wallet as the authentication method. Here’s how:
Open Ledger Live Desktop
Connect your Ledger device via USB (or Bluetooth for supported models)
Enter your PIN directly on the Ledger device
Ledger Live will pair with your hardware wallet and sync accounts
This method ensures that your private keys never leave the device, even during the ledger-live login process.
🧩 Step 4: Initialize or Restore Your Wallet
When you first connect your Ledger device through Ledger Live Desktop, you’ll see two primary options:
🆕 Set Up as a New Device
Choose this if you’re using your Ledger for the first time. You’ll:
Create a secure PIN
Be given a 24-word recovery phrase (your only backup)
This recovery phrase is critical — write it down and store it offline and securely. Ledger Live will never ask for the full recovery phrase online.
🔄 Restore an Existing Wallet
If you already have a Ledger wallet backup, choose to restore using your 24-word recovery phrase. This ties your existing accounts to the new device.
📊 Step 5: Add Accounts & Manage Your Crypto
Ledger Live Desktop supports thousands of coins and tokens. After setup:
Navigate to “Manager” within Ledger Live
Install blockchain apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana)
Add accounts for each asset you plan to manage
Monitor balances, portfolio performance, and transaction histories
Ledger Live syncs with the blockchain to give accurate price and balance updates without compromising the security of your private keys.
🚀 Step 6: Send, Receive, Buy & Swap Crypto
With your accounts added, Ledger Live Desktop lets you:
Send crypto — verify addresses and amounts on your device to prevent malware interference
Receive crypto — share your public address securely
Buy and swap assets — integrated third-party services let you trade directly in the app
Every transaction must be confirmed on the Ledger device screen — adding a strong layer of protection.
🌐 Advanced Features
Ledger Live Desktop isn’t just for basic wallet functions — it includes many advanced capabilities:
📌 Portfolio Tracking
See all your crypto assets in one dashboard, view historical charts, and analyze performance trends.
♻️ Staking
Stake supported assets (such as ETH, SOL or DOT) directly within Ledger Live to earn rewards while keeping your assets securely offline.
🎨 NFT Management
Browse and manage NFTs on supported networks like Ethereum and Polygon safely.
🔄 Buy & Swap Integration
Ledger Live integrates with trusted liquidity providers to facilitate buys, sells, and swaps within the app.
🛡️ Security Tips — Stay Safe with Ledger Live
Security is the foundation of any good crypto setup. Always remember:
Only download Ledger Live from official ledger com-start URLs.
Never enter your 24-word recovery phrase into the app or any website.
Always verify transaction details on the Ledger device screen before approving.
Keep your Ledger device and firmware updated through Ledger Live.
Recent cyber threats have specifically targeted fake Ledger apps encouraging users to enter seed phrases — a practice Ledger itself warns against.
🔄 Ledger Live on Desktop vs Mobile
Yes, Ledger Live is available on both desktop and mobile platforms. While functionalities are mostly aligned, the desktop version often offers more robust interfaces for advanced features. Regardless of the platform, always begin at ledger com-start or the official app stores to avoid scams.
🧠 Final Thoughts
Ledger Live Desktop continues to be one of the most powerful and secure interfaces for managing cryptocurrency with a Ledger hardware wallet. From portfolio tracking to staking, and NFT management, it brings convenience without sacrificing security. With the ledger-live login process hinging on hardware authentication, and advanced features baked into a single app, Ledger Live Desktop sets the bar high for self-custody crypto management tools.
Remember, cybersecurity begins with downloading software from trusted sources like ledger.com/start and staying vigilant against phishing or fake apps. Ledger Live Desktop — paired with a Ledger hardware wallet — gives you full control and peace of mind as you navigate the evolving landscape of digital finance.
❓ FAQ — Ledger Live Desktop & Ledger Wallet
1. What is ledger com-start?
It’s the official Ledger onboarding page where you download Ledger Live and begin device setup.
2. How do I download Ledger Live Desktop?
Visit ledger com-start and choose the version for your OS (Windows/macOS/Linux).
3. Can I use Ledger Live without a Ledger hardware wallet?
No — to manage crypto securely, a Ledger device is required.
4. Does Ledger Live store my private keys?
No — private keys stay on the Ledger hardware wallet, not on Ledger Live.
5. Is a password used for Ledger-live login?
Ledger-live login uses your device PIN and USB/Bluetooth connection, not a typical password.
6. What happens if my Ledger device is lost?
You can restore your wallet on a new device using your recovery phrase.
7. Can I stake crypto in Ledger Live?
Yes — staking features are integrated for many supported assets.
8. Are NFTs supported?
Yes — Ledger Live supports NFTs on certain blockchains like Ethereum and Polygon.
9. Is Ledger Live free?
Yes — Ledger Live is free to download and use.
10. Can Ledger Live be installed on multiple devices?
Yes — Ledger Live can be installed on multiple desktops as long as you connect your Ledger wallet.