Ledger® Live: Desktop | Getting started with Ledger
The Complete Guide to Ledger Wallet
Your ultimate resource for setting up, using, and securing your cryptocurrency with the industry-leading hardware wallet.
What is Ledger Wallet?
Ledger Wallet is the most trusted hardware wallet solution for storing cryptocurrencies. Developed by Ledger SAS, it provides enterprise-grade security for your Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of other digital assets by keeping your private keys in a secure, offline environment.
Key Features of Ledger Wallet:
Secure Element (SE) chip technology (CC EAL5+ certified)
Support for 5,500+ coins and tokens
Intuitive interface with Ledger Live App
24-word recovery phrase for backup
Bluetooth connectivity (Nano X model)
Staking and DeFi capabilities
Getting Started with Ledger Wallet
To begin using your Ledger Wallet, visit the official setup page at ledger.com/start. This comprehensive guide will walk you through:
Unboxing your Ledger device (Nano S, Nano X, or Nano S Plus)
Connecting it to your computer or mobile device
Downloading Ledger Live Desktop or Mobile App
Initializing your device and setting a PIN
Creating and securing your 24-word recovery phrase
Installing cryptocurrency apps on your device
The ledger.com/start page provides model-specific instructions with video tutorials for all Ledger devices.
The Ledger Live Wallet interface is your gateway to managing all your cryptocurrency assets securely. It combines portfolio tracking with secure transaction management.
Ledger Live Features:
Real-time portfolio valuation
Secure send/receive functionality
Built-in exchange partners
Staking and earning opportunities
NFT management (Ethereum and Polygon)
Detailed transaction history
Ledger Live Login Process
Accessing your cryptocurrency is secure and straightforward with Ledger Live login:
Open Ledger Live Desktop or Mobile App
Connect your Ledger device via USB or Bluetooth
Enter your PIN directly on the Ledger device
Navigate to the Manager tab to install coin-specific apps if needed
Access your full portfolio dashboard
Security Note:
Your private keys never leave your Ledger device. The Ledger Live login process is designed to keep your assets secure while providing convenient access to your portfolio.
Ledger Live Desktop vs Mobile App
Ledger offers both desktop and mobile versions of its interface to suit different user needs:
Ledger Live Desktop
Full feature set including advanced portfolio analysis
USB connection for all Ledger devices
Available for Windows, Mac, and Linux
Better suited for complex operations and large portfolios
Ledger Live App (Mobile)
On-the-go access to your crypto
Bluetooth connectivity for Nano X
Available for iOS and Android
Simplified interface for quick transactions
Both versions sync automatically when connected to the same Ledger device, giving you flexibility in how you manage your assets.
Advanced Security Features
Secure Element Technology
Ledger devices use bank-grade security chips (CC EAL5+ certified) to protect your private keys from both physical and digital attacks.
Passphrase Protection
Add an optional 25th word (passphrase) to create hidden wallets for an additional layer of security.
Transaction Verification
All transactions must be manually verified on your Ledger device screen before execution, preventing malware attacks.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Connection Problems
If your device isn't connecting, try different USB cables/ports, ensure Ledger Live Desktop is updated, or restart the application.
Forgotten PIN
You can recover access using your 24-word recovery phrase. This will require setting a new PIN.
App Installation Issues
Ensure you have the latest firmware installed and sufficient space on your Ledger device (some models have limited storage).