Ledger Live Desktop

Getting Started with Your Official Ledger® Wallet

Introduction to Ledger Live Desktop

Ledger Live Desktop is the official application designed to manage your Ledger hardware wallet on your computer. It provides a secure interface to monitor balances, send and receive cryptocurrencies, install apps on your device, and keep firmware up-to-date. Ledger Live ensures that your private keys remain offline while giving you full control of your digital assets.

System Requirements

  • Operating System: Windows 10 or later, macOS 10.13 or later, Linux (various distributions supported)
  • USB port for Ledger Nano S or Nano S Plus; USB/Bluetooth for Nano X
  • Administrator privileges for installation
  • Internet connection for firmware updates and crypto data synchronization

Installing Ledger Live Desktop

Step 1 — Download the Installer

Visit the official Ledger website and download the Ledger Live Desktop installer for your operating system.

Step 2 — Run the Installer

Follow the on-screen instructions to install Ledger Live. Grant administrative permissions if prompted.

Step 3 — Launch the Application

Open Ledger Live and select “Get Started” to begin device setup.

Setting Up Your Ledger Device

Create a New Wallet

  • Connect your Ledger device via USB or Bluetooth.
  • Select “Set up as new device” on the Ledger Live interface.
  • Follow the device prompts to choose a PIN code.
  • Write down the 24-word recovery phrase provided by the device.

Recover an Existing Wallet

  • Select “Restore from recovery phrase.”
  • Enter your 24-word recovery phrase accurately on the Ledger device.
  • Set a secure PIN to unlock your wallet.
Your recovery phrase is the only way to recover your funds. Store it securely offline and never share it with anyone.

Installing Cryptocurrency Apps

Ledger Live allows you to install specific apps for different cryptocurrencies on your Ledger device. Each app corresponds to a blockchain protocol such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Cardano.

  • Open the “Manager” tab in Ledger Live.
  • Connect and unlock your device.
  • Select the cryptocurrency app you want to install and click “Install.”
  • Confirm the installation on the device screen.

Adding and Managing Accounts

After installing apps, you can add accounts to Ledger Live to view balances, history, and perform transactions.

  • Open the “Accounts” tab.
  • Click “Add account” and select the desired cryptocurrency.
  • Follow the prompts to link your device and generate account addresses.
  • Repeat for additional cryptocurrencies as needed.

Sending and Receiving Cryptocurrencies

Receiving

Click “Receive” in Ledger Live, select the account, and verify the generated address on your Ledger device. Share this address to receive funds safely.

Sending

Click “Send,” enter the recipient address and amount, and confirm the transaction on your Ledger device. Ledger Live ensures that all addresses are verified on the hardware before broadcasting to the network.

Firmware Updates

Ledger devices require periodic firmware updates to maintain security and functionality. Ledger Live notifies you when an update is available.

  • Connect and unlock your Ledger device.
  • Click “Firmware Update” in Ledger Live.
  • Follow on-screen instructions and confirm actions on your device.
  • Do not disconnect the device during the update process.

Security Best Practices

  • Always store your recovery phrase offline and in a safe location.
  • Verify all transaction details directly on your Ledger device.
  • Keep Ledger Live and your device firmware up-to-date.
  • Never share your PIN or recovery phrase.
  • Be cautious of phishing attempts and suspicious websites.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Ledger Live does not detect device: Check USB connections, restart app, or try a different port.
  • App installation fails: Ensure device firmware is up-to-date.
  • Transaction errors: Verify blockchain network status and account balance.
  • Recovery phrase issues: Ensure words are entered in correct order without typos.
Visit Ledger Support

Conclusion

Ledger Live Desktop provides a secure and intuitive interface for managing your Ledger hardware wallet. By following this guide, you can safely set up your device, install apps, add accounts, and perform transactions while keeping your digital assets protected.

Proper adherence to security best practices ensures maximum protection against unauthorized access or theft.

Ledger Live Desktop | Getting Started | Official Ledger® Wallet