Ledger® Live: Desktop | Getting Started - Ledger® Support

Ledger® Live Desktop is the essential software interface that connects your Ledger hardware wallet to your computer, enabling secure management of your cryptocurrency assets. Designed to deliver a seamless, intuitive, and safe experience, Ledger Live empowers you to control your portfolio, install applications, perform transactions, stake assets, and more — all while maintaining the highest level of security.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started with Ledger Live Desktop, from downloading the application to setting up your first accounts and understanding its key features.

What is Ledger® Live Desktop

Ledger Live Desktop is the companion application to Ledger hardware wallets, offering a comprehensive solution to manage your crypto assets securely from your desktop or laptop. It is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems.

With Ledger Live, users can:

• Safely send and receive cryptocurrencies
• Manage multiple accounts for different assets
• Buy, sell, and swap cryptocurrencies
• Track portfolio performance
• Stake eligible crypto assets
• Install, update, and remove applications on the Ledger device

Ledger Live ensures that all private keys remain stored inside the hardware wallet at all times, offering a robust shield against online threats.

Downloading and Installing Ledger Live Desktop

To begin, you need to install Ledger Live Desktop on your computer. Follow these steps to ensure a safe installation:

1. Visit the official Ledger website at www.ledger.com/ledger-live.
2. Select your operating system: Windows, macOS, or Linux.
3. Download the installer file corresponding to your platform.
4. Once the download is complete, run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.

It is critical to download Ledger Live only from the official Ledger website to avoid malicious or unofficial versions of the software.

After installation, open Ledger Live to start the setup process.

Setting Up Ledger Live with Your Ledger Device

After launching Ledger Live, the software will guide you through the initial setup. Here is how to connect your Ledger hardware wallet:

1. Select "Get Started."
2. Choose your Ledger device model from the list (Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, or another supported model).
3. Set up as new device if you are using a Ledger wallet for the first time, or restore from recovery phrase if you already have a Ledger device backup.
4. Follow the on-device instructions to create a new wallet or restore an existing one.
5. Create a secure PIN code and confirm it on the device.
6. Write down your 24-word recovery phrase securely. Never store it digitally or share it with anyone.

Once your device setup is complete, Ledger Live will ask to connect your device to authenticate and synchronize.

Installing Applications and Adding Accounts

To manage different cryptocurrencies, you must install apps on your Ledger device and add accounts in Ledger Live.

Installing Apps:

• Navigate to the "Manager" section in Ledger Live.
• Unlock your Ledger device and allow Ledger Manager access.
• Browse the app catalog and install the apps corresponding to the cryptocurrencies you intend to manage.

Adding Accounts:

• Go to "Accounts" in Ledger Live.
• Click on "Add Account."
• Select the crypto asset you want to add.
• Connect your Ledger device and allow Ledger Live to verify and create the account.

Each asset needs its corresponding app installed on the device before it can be managed.

Key Features of Ledger Live Desktop

Ledger Live Desktop offers a broad range of features, all designed to give you full control over your assets while maintaining maximum security.

Portfolio Overview:
Track the real-time performance of your entire crypto portfolio. Monitor individual asset balances, view market price changes, and analyze trends with intuitive charts and metrics.

Secure Transactions:
Ledger Live enables secure sending and receiving of cryptocurrencies. Every transaction requires confirmation on your Ledger device, ensuring protection against unauthorized actions.

Buy, Sell, and Swap:
With Ledger Live's integrated partners, you can purchase cryptocurrencies with credit or debit cards, sell them for fiat currencies, or swap one crypto asset for another without leaving the app.

Staking Support:
Stake assets like Ethereum, Polkadot, and Tezos directly through Ledger Live. Staking allows you to earn rewards while helping secure blockchain networks.

Application Management:
Install, update, and delete apps on your Ledger device easily through Ledger Live. Manage your device's storage capacity efficiently by choosing only the apps you actively use.

Firmware and App Updates:
Ledger Live notifies you when firmware updates are available for your hardware wallet or when new versions of apps are released, helping ensure that your device is always protected with the latest security enhancements.

Best Practices for Using Ledger Live Desktop

To maximize security and usability when using Ledger Live Desktop, consider the following best practices:

• Always download Ledger Live only from Ledger’s official website.
• Regularly check for and install firmware updates on your Ledger device.
• Keep your recovery phrase offline and stored in a secure location.
• Never share your PIN code or recovery phrase with anyone.
• Verify recipient addresses carefully when sending transactions.
• Avoid using Ledger Live on public or shared computers.
• Use a strong and unique password for accessing Ledger Live, if setting one.

Following these practices helps maintain the integrity of your crypto assets and reduces the risk of theft or loss.

Troubleshooting and Ledger Support

Ledger provides extensive support resources to help users troubleshoot and optimize their experience with Ledger Live Desktop.

If you encounter issues such as device connection problems, app installation errors, or transaction difficulties, consider the following steps:

• Restart Ledger Live and your computer.
• Update Ledger Live to the latest version.
• Check for firmware updates on your Ledger device.
• Ensure your USB cable and port are functioning properly.
• Consult the Ledger Live Help Center for detailed troubleshooting guides.

If problems persist, users can submit a support ticket through Ledger’s Support page for personalized assistance.

Visit: Ledger Support Center for more resources and direct help.

Conclusion:

Ledger Live Desktop offers a complete, secure, and powerful way to manage your cryptocurrency portfolio. By combining the physical security of Ledger hardware wallets with the versatile functionality of Ledger Live, you can confidently buy, store, track, and grow your digital assets.

Getting started with Ledger Live Desktop is simple and straightforward. Within minutes, you can set up your device, install essential applications, and begin securely managing your crypto investments.

Take control of your digital assets today with Ledger Live Desktop, and experience the future of safe and efficient crypto management.