Ledger Live Desktop® Introduction
Ledger Live Desktop® is the official companion application for Ledger hardware wallets, providing secure management for your crypto assets. With this desktop app, you can easily add accounts, send and receive cryptocurrencies, check balances, and connect to various networks without exposing your private keys online.
Using Ledger Live Desktop® ensures maximum security while offering a seamless user experience for beginners and advanced users alike.
Tip: Always prioritize the security of your 24-word recovery phrase over convenience.
Ledger Live Desktop® Requirements
Never share your 24-word recovery phrase. Keep it offline at all times.
Install Ledger Live Desktop®
Visit the official Ledger Live Desktop page to download the app. Verify the checksum to ensure authenticity. Run the installer and follow prompts. On first launch, choose Set up as new device or Restore device if migrating.
Avoid third-party downloads; counterfeit apps can steal funds.
Download Official Ledger LiveInitialize Your Ledger Device
Connect the device, power it on, and select a secure PIN. Ledger Live Desktop® will guide you through the 24-word recovery phrase. Write it down carefully in order, and store securely.
Pro tip: Make two separate physical copies. Never photograph or save digitally.
- Use a 6–8 digit PIN; avoid predictable sequences
- Write down all 24 words legibly and in order
- Confirm phrase on the device; never type on a computer
- Keep recovery phrase offline and private
Connect Ledger Live Desktop®
Launch Ledger Live Desktop® and connect your device. Verify its authenticity. The dashboard will display Accounts, Portfolio, and Manager. Install coin apps to support your chosen cryptocurrencies.
Install only the apps you plan to use immediately; uninstalling later won't affect assets.
Add Your Crypto Accounts
Click Accounts → Add account, select your crypto asset, and open the matching app on the Ledger device to sync addresses. Name accounts clearly to manage multiple assets efficiently.
- Example: BTC – Main, ETH – Trading
- Ensure complete synchronization for accurate balances
- Check network fees before sending funds
Unsupported networks can be accessed via third-party wallets, but always verify addresses on the device screen.
Receive Funds
Select an account and click Receive. Confirm the address on your Ledger device. Send a small test transaction to verify everything works.
Only after successful testing should you send larger amounts.
Send Transactions
Click Send, enter a verified recipient address, and approve the transaction on the Ledger device. Track the transaction on a block explorer.
Never approve a transaction you don’t fully understand. Double-check all details on the hardware screen.
Firmware & App Updates
Check the Manager tab regularly. Update firmware only when the recovery phrase is safely stored and device battery is sufficient.
Updates improve security and performance; schedule them when uninterrupted.
Buy, Swap, Stake
Ledger Live Desktop® allows buying, swapping, and staking. Start small, confirm transactions on the device, and review fees and regional availability.
Always understand risks and protocols before using these features.
Best Security Practices
Your 24-word phrase is the ultimate backup. Protect it diligently to recover funds if the device is lost or damaged.
Common Questions
- Is Ledger Live mandatory? No, but it is the official companion. Always verify on-device.
- Can I remove apps? Yes. Accounts remain secure; apps can be reinstalled.
- Forgot PIN? Reset device and restore via 24-word phrase.
- Split phrase? Only if using a secure, understood Shamir backup scheme.
Final Checklist
- Ledger Live Desktop® installed from official source
- Device PIN set and 24-word phrase safely stored
- Genuine check and coin apps installed
- Accounts added and synchronized
- Test transactions successful
- Firmware and apps updated
Ready to manage crypto confidently. Always verify actions on the device itself.