How to Download and Install Ledger Live Desktop

The first step to getting started is downloading Ledger Live Desktop from the official Ledger website. Ensure you are on the authentic website, ledger.com, to avoid downloading malicious software. Avoid third-party websites to guarantee your security.

Go to https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live/download to find the download link for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux). You will see options for Ledger Live Desktop versions based on your OS.

2. Download the Application

Choose your operating system:

•  Windows: Click the download link for Ledger Live Desktop for Windows.
•  macOS: Click the download link for Ledger Live Desktop for macOS.
•  Linux: Click the download link for Ledger Live Desktop for Linux.

Once the file is downloaded, run the installer. The process should take only a few minutes.

3. Install Ledger Live Desktop

After downloading, follow these steps to install Ledger Live Desktop:

•  Windows: Open the .exe file to start the installation. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
•  macOS: Open the .dmg file and drag the Ledger Live Desktop application into the Applications folder.
•  Linux: Follow the specific Linux installation instructions to add the software to your applications.

Once the installation is complete, you can launch Ledger Live Desktop from your desktop or applications folder.

Setting Up Ledger Live Desktop

1. Create an Account

When you first open Ledger Live Desktop, you'll be prompted to create a new Ledger Live Desktop account or use an existing one. This account is used to access your cryptocurrency portfolio and manage your Ledger hardware wallet.

•  New Users: If you are using Ledger Live Desktop for the first time, select "Get Started" to create a new account.
•  Existing Users: If you already have a Ledger Live Desktop account, click on "Restore from backup" to access your existing wallet.

Follow the prompts to enter your account details and complete the initial setup process.

2. Connect Your Ledger Device

To start using Ledger Live Desktop, you must connect your Ledger hardware wallet to your computer:

•  Ledger Nano S: Use the provided USB cable to connect your Ledger Nano S to your computer.
•  Ledger Nano X: You can connect your Ledger Nano X via Bluetooth (if using a mobile phone) or via USB (if using a computer).

The Ledger Live Desktop application will detect your device automatically once it’s connected. Follow the on-screen instructions to pair the device with the application.

3. Set Up or Restore Your Wallet

•  Set Up a New Ledger Device: If you are setting up a new Ledger wallet, follow the on-screen instructions to choose a PIN and write down your 24-word recovery phrase (this is critical for restoring your wallet in the future).
•  Restore an Existing Wallet: If you are restoring an existing wallet from another Ledger device, you will need to enter your 24-word recovery phrase. This will restore your assets to the new device.

4. Install Cryptocurrency Apps

Once your device is connected and your wallet is set up, you can install apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage on Ledger Live Desktop. Simply select the "Manager" tab in the app and install the apps for the coins or tokens you want to manage.

Ledger devices support hundreds of cryptocurrencies, and Ledger Live Desktop makes it easy to install and manage each of them securely.