A clear, considered walkthrough to help you install Ledger Live Desktop, connect your device, and explore your accounts—with security at every step.
Explore the guideTake your time during setup. Hardware-wallet security depends on carefully checking information displayed by your device.
Download the desktop application from Ledger's official distribution channels. Before installing, verify that you're using a legitimate source and that your operating system meets the requirements. Avoid links from unsolicited messages, ads, or unfamiliar websites.
Learn what to expectConnect your compatible Ledger hardware wallet with the appropriate cable and follow the instructions in the application. Your device is an important security boundary—review prompts and transaction details on its own screen before approving anything.
Learn what to expectAfter setup, use the desktop interface to review supported accounts and portfolio information. Features and supported assets can change, so consult current official documentation if something behaves differently than expected.
Learn what to expectOne step at a time. If an instruction or prompt feels unexpected, pause and verify it using trusted official documentation.
Security essentialsLedger Live Desktop is designed to provide a central interface for interacting with compatible Ledger hardware wallets and supported digital-asset accounts. The exact screens available depend on your device, app version, operating system, and supported assets.
After connecting your device, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the navigation. Look for account information, portfolio views, device management controls, and other available features. An unfamiliar pop-up isn't trustworthy just because it looks familiar.
For important operations, compare the information in the desktop application with what appears directly on your hardware device. If something doesn't match, stop and investigate before approving.
Never share your Secret Recovery Phrase with a website, support agent, application, friend, or anyone claiming they need it for verification. Treat anyone requesting it as suspicious.
Simple practices can significantly reduce the risk of common phishing and social-engineering mistakes.
Get applications, updates, and documentation through legitimate official channels. Be cautious with search ads, unsolicited emails, and social messages offering urgent downloads.
Keep your Secret Recovery Phrase private and offline. Never enter it into a website or send it through email, messaging apps, screenshots, or cloud storage.
Before approving a transaction, inspect the details on your hardware wallet. If the destination or amount is unexpected, reject the operation and investigate.
Scammers use urgency, fake account warnings, and impersonated support. Legitimate troubleshooting should never require you to surrender your recovery phrase.
Basic answers for your first desktop hardware-wallet workflow.
Back to the beginningLedger Live is designed to work with Ledger hardware wallets and related services. The exact functionality available depends on the current software version and supported device.
Never enter your Secret Recovery Phrase into a website, support form, computer application, or message simply because someone requests it. Follow the instructions supplied with your genuine hardware device and official documentation.
Stop before approving it. Compare the information on your hardware device with what you intended to perform. If anything appears unexpected, reject the operation and investigate using trusted official support resources.
Desktop applications receive updates and features can change. Supported assets, integrations, menus, and requirements may differ between versions. Consult current official documentation for version-specific instructions.