Ledger® Live: Desktop® — Getting Started

Overview

Ledger Live Desktop is the official software for managing your Ledger hardware wallets on your computer. It provides a secure, user-friendly interface to view your portfolio, manage multiple cryptocurrencies, send and receive funds, and perform advanced operations like staking and exchanging tokens.

By combining Ledger Live Desktop with a Ledger hardware wallet, you ensure that your private keys never leave your device, keeping your funds safe from online threats.

Installing Ledger Live Desktop

Follow these steps to install Ledger Live Desktop safely:

1. Visit the official Ledger website: Ledger Live Download.
2. Select your operating system: Windows, macOS, or Linux.
3. Download the installer and verify its checksum to ensure authenticity.
4. Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
5. Once installed, launch Ledger Live Desktop and allow necessary permissions.

Setting Up Ledger Live Desktop

After installation, you need to connect and configure your Ledger device:

1. Connect your Ledger hardware wallet to your computer via USB.
2. Enter your device PIN code to unlock it.
3. If new, choose “Set up as new device” or restore from a 24-word recovery phrase.
4. Ledger Live will prompt you to install apps for your desired cryptocurrencies.
5. Create a password for Ledger Live to encrypt local data.

Managing Accounts

Ledger Live allows easy management of multiple accounts:

1. Click “Add Account” and select the cryptocurrency.
2. Ledger Live scans your device and adds the account automatically.
3. Use labels to organize and differentiate accounts.
4. Track balances, transaction history, and portfolio distribution in real-time.

Supported cryptocurrencies include Bitcoin, Ethereum, and over 5,500 altcoins.

Sending and Receiving Funds

Receiving Cryptocurrency

1. Select the account and click “Receive.”
2. Verify the displayed address on your Ledger device.
3. Share the verified address with the sender.
4. Ledger Live updates your balance once the transaction confirms.

Sending Cryptocurrency

1. Select the account and click “Send.”
2. Enter the recipient address and amount.
3. Confirm the transaction on your Ledger device.
4. Review fees and details before final approval.

Security Best Practices

• Always download Ledger Live from the official website.
• Never share your recovery phrase.
• Keep your device firmware and Ledger Live updated.
• Use strong PINs and enable device passcodes.
• Store your recovery phrase securely offline.
• Be aware of phishing attempts and malicious sites.

Help and Support

If you encounter issues, Ledger offers multiple support options:

• Ledger Support Center
• Ledger Live Official Page
• Ledger Academy for tutorials
• Contact Ledger directly for device-specific troubleshooting and advice.

Conclusion

Ledger Live Desktop, when paired with a Ledger hardware wallet, provides a safe and powerful way to manage cryptocurrencies. From installation and setup to managing accounts and securing transactions, this guide equips you with the knowledge needed to confidently use Ledger Live Desktop for your digital assets.