Ledger® Live: Desktop® — Getting Started

Use Ledger® Live: Desktop® to securely manage accounts, check your portfolio, and sign transactions with your Ledger hardware device.

Introduction to Ledger® Live: Desktop®

Ledger® Live: Desktop® is the official application for interacting with your Ledger hardware wallet on desktop platforms. With Ledger® Live: Desktop® you can add blockchain accounts, check balances, receive/send crypto, stake supported assets, and install applets on your device — all while your private keys remain safely stored on the Ledger device itself.

Before you begin with Ledger® Live: Desktop®

Prepare the essentials before starting the Ledger® Live: Desktop® setup:

  • Purchase an official Ledger hardware device from authorized channels.
  • Have your computer updated with the latest OS and a supported browser.
  • Keep a pen and the official recovery phrase sheet to record your recovery phrase offline during setup.
  • Download Ledger® Live: Desktop® only from the official Ledger website to avoid phishing copies.

Step-by-step setup for Ledger® Live: Desktop®

  1. Download: Visit the official Ledger website and download Ledger® Live: Desktop® for your OS.
  2. Install: Run the installer and follow on-screen instructions. On first launch, choose “Get started”.
  3. Pair your device: Connect your Ledger hardware and follow the prompts to create a new device or restore an existing wallet.
  4. Record recovery phrase: When generating a new wallet, write down your recovery phrase exactly and store it offline in at least two secure locations.
  5. Install apps: Use Ledger® Live: Desktop® to install the blockchain apps you need on the device (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
  6. Add accounts: After apps are installed, add accounts in Ledger® Live: Desktop® to start viewing balances and preparing transactions.

Key features of Ledger® Live: Desktop®

Ledger® Live: Desktop® offers:

  • Hardware-backed transaction signing — private keys never leave the device.
  • Portfolio overview and real-time valuation for supported assets.
  • Secure firmware update process for Ledger devices.
  • Staking and swap integrations where available.
  • Integration support for many third-party wallets and dApps while preserving device security.

Security best practices when using Ledger® Live: Desktop®

When you use Ledger® Live: Desktop®, follow strong security habits to protect your crypto:

  • Always verify you downloaded Ledger® Live: Desktop® from the official site.
  • Never share your recovery phrase with anyone or store it digitally.
  • Confirm transaction details on your Ledger device screen before approving — not on your computer screen only.
  • Keep firmware and Ledger® Live: Desktop® up to date to benefit from security fixes.
  • Consider using a dedicated, well-maintained device for your crypto activities; avoid public or untrusted computers.

Troubleshooting common Ledger® Live: Desktop® issues

If Ledger® Live: Desktop® cannot detect your Ledger device, try these steps:

  • Use the official USB cable and plug into a different USB port.
  • Ensure your device is unlocked and on the home screen while connecting.
  • Restart Ledger® Live: Desktop® and your computer.
  • Install the latest Ledger Live updates and check device firmware status.
  • If issues persist, consult Ledger Support through official channels.

Frequently asked questions about Ledger® Live: Desktop®

Q: Can Ledger® Live: Desktop® access my private keys?
A: No. Ledger® Live: Desktop® communicates with your device but private keys remain on the Ledger hardware device at all times.

Q: Do I need Ledger® Live: Desktop® to use my Ledger device?
A: Ledger® Live: Desktop® is the easiest and officially supported way to manage accounts for many users, but advanced users may use compatible third-party wallets while still benefiting from hardware security.

Ready to set up? Download Ledger® Live: Desktop® from the official Ledger site and follow the on-screen onboarding steps to secure your accounts with hardware-backed protection.

Discailmar: The content above is informational only and intended to help you get started with Ledger® Live: Desktop®. Always verify official instructions and avoid sharing sensitive secrets. This is not financial advice.