Introduction
Ledger Live is the official software application for managing your Ledger hardware wallet. Whether you're using a Ledger Nano X, Nano S Plus, or Nano S, Ledger Live gives you the tools to securely send, receive, stake, and monitor your crypto assets.
This guide walks you through how to set up Ledger Live on your desktop, connect your device, and start managing your crypto portfolio with maximum security.
What is Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is an all-in-one desktop (and mobile) application developed by Ledger. It allows users to:
- Check balances across multiple assets and blockchains
- Send and receive crypto securely
- Manage tokens and NFTs
- Stake coins and earn rewards
- Install/remove apps on the Ledger device
The software works in tandem with a Ledger hardware wallet, which stores your private keys offline for maximum security.
Installing Ledger Live on Desktop
Getting started with Ledger Live is simple. Follow these steps to install it on your desktop:
- Visit the official Ledger website: ledger.com/ledger-live
- Choose your platform: Windows, macOS, or Linux
- Click “Download” and wait for the installer
- Run the installation file and follow on-screen instructions
- Once installed, launch Ledger Live from your desktop
⚠️ Always download Ledger Live from the official website to avoid phishing or malware.
Setting Up Your Ledger Device
If you have a new Ledger device, you’ll need to set it up before using Ledger Live. Here’s how:
- Connect your Ledger Nano X, Nano S, or S Plus via USB
- Choose “Initialize as new device”
- Set a secure PIN code (4 to 8 digits)
- Write down your 24-word recovery phrase on the supplied sheet
- Confirm the recovery phrase on the device
- Open Ledger Live and choose “Set up a new device”
- Follow the app instructions to complete setup
🔐 Your 24-word recovery phrase is the only backup of your private keys. Keep it offline and safe. Never share it.
Adding Crypto Accounts
Once your device is connected and initialized, you can begin adding crypto accounts in Ledger Live. An “account” refers to an address for a specific coin or token.
To Add an Account:
- Open Ledger Live and go to the “Accounts” tab
- Click “+ Add Account”
- Select the cryptocurrency (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana)
- Follow the prompts and unlock your device
- Ledger Live will sync and display your account address
Receiving Crypto
To receive crypto into your Ledger wallet:
- Click the “Receive” tab in Ledger Live
- Select the asset and account
- Connect and unlock your Ledger device
- Verify the address shown in Ledger Live matches your device screen
- Copy the address and share it with the sender
Always verify the address on the physical device screen. This prevents clipboard hijacking or malware interference.
Sending Crypto
To send crypto securely:
- Click the “Send” tab
- Select the account you want to send from
- Enter the recipient’s address and amount
- Connect and unlock your Ledger device
- Verify and approve the transaction directly on the device
Security Tips
Ledger devices are secure by design, but users must follow best practices:
- Never share your 24-word phrase with anyone
- Use a strong, unique PIN on your Ledger device
- Always verify receiving addresses on the device screen
- Regularly update Ledger Live and firmware
- Only use the official Ledger website and app
Managing Tokens and NFTs
Ledger Live supports ERC-20 tokens (Ethereum), BEP-20 (BNB Chain), Solana tokens, and more. You can:
- View balances and transaction history
- Send/receive tokens just like native assets
- Use the “Discover” tab to access dApps, DeFi platforms, and NFT marketplaces
- Store and view NFTs on Ethereum and Polygon
Staking & Earning Rewards
Ledger Live also allows you to stake certain assets and earn rewards — all while keeping your private keys offline. Supported staking assets include:
- Ethereum (ETH)
- Tezos (XTZ)
- Polkadot (DOT)
- Solana (SOL)
- Cosmos (ATOM)
Just go to the “Earn” tab, choose your asset, and follow the guided process to start staking.
Troubleshooting Tips
- If your device isn't recognized, try another USB cable or port
- Ensure Ledger Live is up to date
- Restart your computer and Ledger device
- Refer to the official Ledger Help Center for more guidance