Getting™ Started | Ledger® Live: Desktop® — official (EN-us)

Ledger Live Desktop is a comprehensive application designed to manage your cryptocurrency assets securely. Developed by Ledger, a company recognized globally for hardware wallets, Ledger Live provides a seamless interface for tracking, sending, receiving, and growing your digital assets. Unlike web-based platforms, Ledger Live Desktop offers enhanced security, ensuring that private keys remain offline while allowing users to interact with their cryptocurrencies efficiently.

This guide will walk you through the essential steps to get started with Ledger Live Desktop, from installation to advanced usage, providing clarity for both newcomers and experienced users.

System Requirements

Before installing Ledger Live Desktop, it is important to ensure your system meets the minimum requirements. Compatible operating systems include:

  • Windows: Windows 10 or higher
  • macOS: macOS 10.14 (Mojave) or higher
  • Linux: Ubuntu 18.04, Debian 10, Fedora 33, or equivalent

Additional requirements include:

  • At least 200 MB of free storage
  • Internet access for initial setup and updates
  • USB port for connecting Ledger hardware wallets

Meeting these requirements ensures smooth performance and prevents installation errors.

Downloading Ledger Live Desktop

  1. Official Source: Always download Ledger Live Desktop from the official Ledger website to prevent security risks associated with third-party downloads.
  2. Select Your Operating System: The website automatically suggests the correct version, but verify before downloading.
  3. Verify the File: Ledger provides checksums and signature verification to ensure the integrity of the downloaded application. Verifying the file helps protect against malware or tampering.

Once the download is complete, proceed with the installation.

Installation Process

Windows

  1. Locate the downloaded .exe file and double-click to begin installation.
  2. Follow the on-screen instructions, selecting your preferred installation location.
  3. After installation, launch Ledger Live Desktop from the Start Menu.

macOS

  1. Open the downloaded .dmg file.
  2. Drag the Ledger Live icon into the Applications folder.
  3. Launch Ledger Live from Applications.

Linux

  1. Extract the downloaded .tar.gz file to a suitable folder.
  2. Run the installation script included in the package.
  3. Execute Ledger Live Desktop from the terminal or shortcut created.

After installation, the application will prompt for initial setup.

Setting Up Ledger Live Desktop

Initial Configuration

Upon launching Ledger Live Desktop for the first time, the app guides you through a setup process:

  1. Language Selection: Choose your preferred language for the interface.
  2. Terms Acceptance: Review and accept Ledger’s terms and privacy policy.
  3. Create a New Device or Restore: If you already own a Ledger hardware wallet, you can restore it using your recovery phrase. New users should select the option to create a new device.

Establishing Security

Security is central to Ledger Live Desktop. The application emphasizes the importance of safeguarding your recovery phrase. Users are advised to:

  • Store the 24-word recovery phrase offline.
  • Avoid digital copies, screenshots, or cloud storage.
  • Consider using a secure physical backup solution such as a metal recovery sheet.

Failure to protect the recovery phrase may result in permanent loss of access to your assets.

Adding a Ledger Device

To manage cryptocurrencies through Ledger Live Desktop, you must connect your Ledger hardware wallet.

  1. Connect your Ledger device via USB.
  2. Enter your PIN code directly on the device.
  3. Ledger Live will recognize the device and prompt you to update the firmware if necessary.
  4. Once updated, the device is ready to manage accounts.

Firmware updates are essential for maintaining security and compatibility with supported cryptocurrencies.

Installing Cryptocurrency Apps

Ledger Live Desktop works in conjunction with apps installed on your hardware wallet. Each supported cryptocurrency requires a specific app:

  1. Navigate to the Manager section in Ledger Live.
  2. Select the desired cryptocurrency from the list.
  3. Click Install to add the app to your device.

Ledger Live ensures that only verified applications are installed, maintaining the integrity of your wallet.

Creating Accounts

Accounts in Ledger Live Desktop represent your cryptocurrency holdings and are linked to the hardware wallet.

  1. Open the Accounts tab.
  2. Click Add Account and choose the cryptocurrency.
  3. Select the Ledger device and app corresponding to that currency.
  4. Ledger Live will synchronize your account, displaying balances and transaction history.

Multiple accounts can be added for the same cryptocurrency, allowing users to manage separate holdings efficiently.

Sending and Receiving Cryptocurrency

Receiving

  1. Open the relevant account in Ledger Live.
  2. Click Receive to display your address.
  3. Confirm the address on your Ledger device to ensure authenticity.
  4. Share the address with the sender.

Verification on the device ensures that even if your computer is compromised, the address is accurate.

Sending

  1. Open the account you wish to send from.
  2. Click Send and enter the recipient address and amount.
  3. Confirm the transaction details on your Ledger device.
  4. Ledger Live will broadcast the transaction to the blockchain.

Ledger Live Desktop supports transaction fee customization, enabling users to choose between speed and cost-efficiency.

Portfolio Overview

Ledger Live Desktop provides a centralized view of all your assets. The Portfolio tab displays:

  • Total value in your preferred fiat currency
  • Individual asset performance over time
  • Historical transaction activity

This feature allows users to track their investment growth and make informed decisions.

Staking and Earning

Ledger Live Desktop supports staking for select cryptocurrencies, allowing users to earn rewards directly from their wallet.

  1. Navigate to the Earn tab.
  2. Select a supported cryptocurrency.
  3. Follow the steps to delegate or stake tokens.

Rewards are distributed periodically, and Ledger Live tracks earnings in real-time. This feature offers a secure method for passive income without transferring assets to third-party platforms.

Security Best Practices

While Ledger Live Desktop provides high-level security, users must follow best practices:

  • Keep Ledger Live and your hardware wallet firmware updated.
  • Enable device passphrase protection for added security.
  • Avoid downloading Ledger Live from unofficial sources.
  • Regularly verify receiving addresses on the hardware device.

By maintaining these practices, users minimize risks from malware, phishing, or accidental loss.

Troubleshooting

Common issues can occur during setup or daily usage. Ledger Live Desktop includes built-in troubleshooting tools:

  • Device Not Recognized: Ensure USB connection is secure and the device is unlocked.
  • Firmware Update Errors: Restart Ledger Live and the device. Verify internet connectivity.
  • Account Synchronization Issues: Refresh the account or reinstall the relevant app on the device.

Ledger’s support website provides additional guidance for advanced issues.

Advanced Features

Ledger Live Desktop also offers advanced functionality:

  • Exchange Integration: Swap supported cryptocurrencies directly within the app.
  • Notifications: Receive alerts for incoming transactions and important updates.
  • Export Data: Users can export account history for accounting or tax purposes.

These features enhance convenience while maintaining the secure architecture of the platform.

Regular Updates

Ledger Live Desktop frequently releases updates to improve security, support additional cryptocurrencies, and enhance user experience. Users should:

  • Enable automatic update notifications.
  • Review update release notes to understand new features.
  • Complete updates promptly to maintain security integrity.

Conclusion

Ledger Live Desktop offers a robust, secure, and user-friendly solution for managing cryptocurrencies. By combining hardware wallet security with intuitive software, it ensures both beginners and experienced users can safely manage their digital assets. From initial setup to advanced features like staking and exchange integration, Ledger Live Desktop empowers users to take full control of their portfolios while maintaining industry-leading security standards.

Consistent use of Ledger Live Desktop, adherence to best practices, and keeping firmware up-to-date guarantees the protection of your assets and simplifies the management of multiple cryptocurrencies. Whether tracking portfolio performance, sending transactions, or earning staking rewards, Ledger Live Desktop serves as a reliable companion for all cryptocurrency activities.