Ledger® Live: Desktop® — Getting Started | official Ledger …

Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application designed to manage Ledger hardware wallets safely and efficiently. Whether you are a new cryptocurrency user or an experienced investor, Ledger Live Desktop allows you to access, manage, and monitor your digital assets while keeping your private keys offline.

This guide provides a complete overview of Ledger Live Desktop, including setup, account management, transaction execution, security features, and best practices.

What Is Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop is a cross-platform application available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It acts as a secure interface between your Ledger hardware wallet and your cryptocurrency accounts.

Key features include:

  • Account management: Add and manage multiple cryptocurrency accounts from a single device.
  • Portfolio tracking: Monitor real-time balances and performance of your assets.
  • Secure transactions: Send and receive cryptocurrencies with on-device verification.
  • App management: Install blockchain-specific apps on your Ledger device.
  • Firmware updates: Keep your Ledger hardware wallet up to date with official updates.

Ledger Live Desktop ensures that private keys never leave your device, providing robust protection against malware, phishing, and online attacks.

Downloading and Installing Ledger Live Desktop

Step 1: Download the Official Application

Download Ledger Live Desktop only from the official Ledger website. Avoid third-party sources, as unofficial versions may compromise security.

Step 2: Install the Application

Follow the installation instructions for your operating system:

  • Windows: Run the installer and follow on-screen prompts.
  • macOS: Drag the Ledger Live application to your Applications folder.
  • Linux: Follow the package instructions for your distribution.

Step 3: Launch Ledger Live Desktop

Once installed, open the application. You will be prompted to set up a new device or restore an existing wallet.

Setting Up Ledger Live Desktop

Step 1: Connect Your Ledger Device

  • Use the supplied USB cable to connect your Ledger hardware wallet to your computer.
  • Turn on the device and follow the prompts on the screen.

Step 2: Initialize the Wallet

  • New wallet: Generate a 24-word recovery phrase directly on the device.
  • Restore wallet: Enter an existing recovery phrase to regain access to funds.

Step 3: Set a Device PIN

Create a secure PIN code on your hardware wallet. The PIN protects your device from unauthorized access in case it is lost or stolen.

Adding Accounts

Ledger Live Desktop allows you to manage multiple cryptocurrency accounts.

  1. Open Ledger Live and select Add Account.
  2. Choose the cryptocurrency to add.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions and confirm addresses on your Ledger device.

Supported cryptocurrencies include Bitcoin, Ethereum, and a wide range of altcoins, allowing you to consolidate all your accounts in a single interface.

Sending and Receiving Cryptocurrency

Receiving Funds

  1. Open Ledger Live Desktop.
  2. Select the account you want to receive funds into.
  3. Generate a receiving address on your device and share it with the sender.

Sending Funds

  1. Enter the recipient’s address and the amount to send.
  2. Confirm the transaction details on your Ledger device.
  3. Complete the transaction once verified.

Every transaction must be approved on your hardware wallet, preventing unauthorized transfers even if your computer is compromised.

App Management

Ledger Live Desktop allows you to install blockchain-specific apps on your device:

  • Open the Manager section of Ledger Live Desktop.
  • Browse available apps and install those required for your cryptocurrencies.
  • Confirm installations directly on the Ledger device.

Ledger devices have limited storage, so install only the apps you need at any given time.

Firmware Updates

Keeping your Ledger hardware wallet firmware up to date is critical for security:

  • Ledger Live Desktop will notify you when a new firmware version is available.
  • Follow on-screen prompts to download and install the update.
  • Confirm the update on your device.

Regular firmware updates ensure protection against potential vulnerabilities and introduce new features.

Portfolio Tracking

Ledger Live Desktop provides a centralized view of your crypto portfolio:

  • View account balances in real-time.
  • Track historical transactions and performance.
  • Monitor asset allocation and diversification.

This makes managing multiple accounts and cryptocurrencies easy while maintaining security.

Security Features

Ledger Live Desktop integrates multiple security measures:

  • Hardware-based PIN verification: Ensures only you can access your device.
  • Offline private keys: All private keys remain on the Ledger device.
  • Transaction confirmation: Every transaction must be verified on the device.
  • Passphrase support: Optional additional security layer for hidden wallets.
  • Device auto-lock: Automatically locks the wallet when disconnected.

These security measures make Ledger Live Desktop one of the safest applications for cryptocurrency management.

Recovery and Backup

In the event your Ledger device is lost or damaged:

  1. Use a new Ledger hardware wallet.
  2. Open Ledger Live Desktop and choose Restore Wallet.
  3. Enter your 24-word recovery phrase on the device.
  4. Set a new PIN and re-add your accounts.

Never enter your recovery phrase on a computer, phone, or online platform outside of Ledger Live Desktop and the Ledger device.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Device not detected: Reconnect the device, try a different USB port, or restart Ledger Live Desktop.
  • Incorrect balances: Verify account type or ensure passphrase usage is correct.
  • Forgotten PIN: Reset the device and restore using the recovery phrase.

Ledger Live Desktop provides diagnostic tools and prompts to resolve most common issues safely.

Best Practices for Ledger Live Desktop

  • Always download Ledger Live Desktop from the official website.
  • Keep your recovery phrase private and offline.
  • Confirm all transactions on your Ledger device.
  • Regularly update firmware to maintain security.
  • Use passphrase-protected wallets for additional privacy.

Following these practices ensures maximum security for your digital assets.

Conclusion

Ledger Live Desktop is the official, secure application for managing Ledger hardware wallets. It allows users to add accounts, monitor portfolios, send and receive crypto, install apps, and update device firmware—all while keeping private keys offline.

By combining Ledger Live Desktop with Ledger hardware wallets, you get a powerful, secure, and user-friendly interface that puts you in full control of your cryptocurrency. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced crypto investor, Ledger Live Desktop provides the tools and security needed to manage your digital assets safely.

Start using Ledger Live Desktop today to enjoy secure, convenient, and reliable management of your cryptocurrency portfolio.