Ledger Live Desktop ®— Getting Started | Official Ledger Wallet

learnSTARTio

— 3 min read

Managing your crypto securely has never been easier. Ledger Live Desktop is your gateway to accessing, managing, and monitoring your cryptocurrency portfolio from the comfort of your computer. Whether you are new to Ledger or an experienced user, this guide will help you get started quickly and securely.

What is Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop is the official application for Ledger hardware wallets, available on Windows, macOS, and Linux. It allows you to:

  • Manage multiple cryptocurrencies in one place
  • Send and receive crypto securely
  • Check real-time portfolio balances and market data
  • Install and manage apps on your Ledger device

By connecting your Ledger device to Ledger Live Desktop, you are ensuring your private keys remain secure on the hardware wallet, while you enjoy a seamless desktop experience.

Tip: Always download Ledger Live Desktop from the official Ledger website to avoid phishing attempts.

Installing Ledger Live Desktop

Getting started with Ledger Live Desktop is simple. Follow these steps:

  1. Download Ledger Live Desktop
    Visit the Ledger Live download page and choose your operating system.
  2. Install the application
    Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions. The installation is straightforward and should take only a few minutes.
  3. Open Ledger Live Desktop
    Once installed, launch the app. You will be guided through initial setup, including choosing a password to secure your app.

Setting Up Your Ledger Device

To manage your crypto assets through Ledger Live Desktop, you need a Ledger hardware wallet (Ledger Nano S or Nano X). Follow these steps:

  1. Connect your Ledger device to your computer.
  2. Enter your PIN to unlock your device.
  3. Initialize your Ledger if it’s a new device, or recover an existing wallet using your 24-word recovery phrase.
  4. Install apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage (for example, Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Solana).
Pro Tip: Only install apps you need. Ledger devices have limited storage, and installing unnecessary apps can complicate your experience.

Ledger Live Desktop has an intuitive interface, making it easy to manage your digital assets:

  • Dashboard: View your portfolio balance, recent transactions, and market trends.
  • Accounts: Add accounts for different cryptocurrencies to manage multiple assets.
  • Send & Receive: Quickly send or receive crypto, with full security from your hardware wallet.
  • Manager: Install or uninstall apps on your Ledger device, check firmware updates, and more.
Learn more about using the Ledger Live dashboard for better portfolio management.

Sending and Receiving Cryptocurrency

Sending and receiving crypto with Ledger Live Desktop is safe and simple:

  • Receiving: Generate a receiving address for any cryptocurrency and share it with the sender. Always verify the address on your Ledger device to avoid fraud.
  • Sending: Enter the recipient’s address, amount, and confirm the transaction on your Ledger device. This ensures your private keys never leave the device.
Security Reminder: Never share your 24-word recovery phrase. Ledger staff will never ask for it.

Security Features of Ledger Live Desktop

Ledger Live Desktop is built with security in mind:

  • Private keys remain offline on your Ledger hardware wallet.
  • Secure password protection for your desktop app.
  • Transaction verification directly on your device.
  • Automatic firmware updates to ensure your device is protected against vulnerabilities.
For a deep dive into security, check the Ledger security guide.

FAQs

1. Can I use Ledger Live Desktop without a Ledger device?
No. Ledger Live Desktop requires a Ledger hardware wallet to manage cryptocurrencies securely. You can view portfolio info only after connecting your device.

2. Which cryptocurrencies are supported?
Ledger Live supports over 5,500 assets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and more. Check the full list here.

3. Can I manage multiple devices with Ledger Live?
Yes, you can connect multiple Ledger devices and manage different accounts within the same Ledger Live Desktop app.

4. How do I recover my wallet if my Ledger is lost or stolen?
Use your 24-word recovery phrase on a new Ledger device or compatible wallet to restore access to your funds. Never share this phrase with anyone.

5. Is Ledger Live Desktop safe from malware?
Yes, as long as your device is genuine, apps are installed through Ledger Live, and you verify all transactions on your hardware wallet. Always download Ledger Live from the official site.

Tips for Getting Started

  • Regularly update Ledger Live and your device firmware.
  • Backup your 24-word recovery phrase in a secure location.
  • Use a strong password for your Ledger Live Desktop application.
  • Monitor your portfolio using the real-time dashboard.

Ledger Live Desktop combines security, ease of use, and portfolio management into a single, powerful desktop application. By following these steps, you can confidently manage your crypto while keeping your private keys safe.

For more advanced tips and updates, visit the Ledger Learn hub and stay connected with the latest security practices.

Read more