Ledger Live Desktop® — Starting Up Your Device | Ledger

Getting started with your Ledger hardware wallet is simple, secure, and seamless when you use Ledger Live Desktop. Designed to give you full control over your crypto assets, Ledger Live Desktop acts as the central hub to manage, track, and secure your digital currencies. Whether you are new to cryptocurrency or a seasoned investor, setting up your device with Ledger Live Desktop ensures a smooth experience from the very first step.

Step 1: Download and Install Ledger Live Desktop

To begin, download Ledger Live Desktop from the official Ledger website. The application is available for both Windows and macOS, ensuring compatibility with your computer. After downloading, follow the installation prompts carefully. Once installed, open the application to start the setup process. Using Ledger Live Desktop guarantees that you are interacting with a trusted and secure platform, avoiding any risks associated with third-party applications.

Step 2: Connect Your Ledger Device

After installing Ledger Live Desktop, connect your Ledger hardware wallet to your computer using the USB cable provided with your device. Ledger Live Desktop will automatically detect your device, allowing you to begin the initialization process. During this step, you will create a secure PIN code on your Ledger device. This PIN is your first line of defense, ensuring that your funds remain protected even if your device is lost or stolen.

Step 3: Initialize Your Ledger Wallet

If your Ledger device is new, you will be prompted to generate a recovery phrase using Ledger Live Desktop. This 24-word recovery phrase is crucial—it allows you to recover your funds if your device is lost or damaged. Ledger Live Desktop guides you step by step, making it easy to write down and verify your recovery phrase. Never share this phrase with anyone, and always store it in a secure location. With this process completed, your Ledger wallet is ready to manage your cryptocurrencies safely.

Step 4: Add Accounts and Manage Assets

Once your Ledger device is set up, Ledger Live Desktop allows you to add accounts for a wide variety of cryptocurrencies. Simply select the crypto assets you want to manage, and the application will sync with your Ledger device to display your balances and recent transactions. Ledger Live Desktop also enables seamless sending and receiving of funds, while providing real-time market data to keep you informed. Its intuitive interface ensures that managing multiple crypto accounts is straightforward and efficient.

Step 5: Keep Your Device and Ledger Live Desktop Updated

For maximum security, always ensure that both your Ledger device and Ledger Live Desktop are running the latest firmware and software versions. Updates often include critical security enhancements and new features, keeping your crypto management experience smooth and secure. With regular updates, Ledger Live Desktop continues to provide a trusted environment for storing and handling your digital assets.


By using Ledger Live Desktop, you gain a secure, user-friendly platform that connects your hardware wallet with complete control over your cryptocurrency portfolio. Start today, and experience the peace of mind that comes from managing your assets safely with Ledger.


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