Ledger Live Desktop — Fresh Getting Started Guide

kamm

— 1 min read

Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application for managing cryptocurrency securely with your Ledger hardware wallet. It allows you to view balances, send and receive crypto, stake, and track multiple accounts, all while keeping your private keys safely offline.

Step 1: Download and Install

  • Go to the official Ledger website.
  • Select your operating system: Windows, macOS, or Linux.
  • Download Ledger Live Desktop and run the installer.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete installation.
⚠️ Only download Ledger Live from the official source to ensure security.

Step 2: Connect Your Ledger Wallet

  • Plug in your Ledger device via USB or connect via Bluetooth (if supported).
  • Turn on the device and enter your PIN.
  • Ledger Live Desktop will automatically detect your wallet.

Step 3: Set Up or Restore Your Device

  • Open Ledger Live Desktop and click “Get Started.”
  • Choose one of the options:
    1. Set up as a new device – for new Ledger wallets.
    2. Restore from recovery phrase – for existing wallets with a 24-word backup.
  • Follow the guided steps to initialize the device and set a PIN.
  • Write down your recovery phrase securely; never type it into a computer or share it online.

Step 4: Install Apps and Add Accounts

  • Open the Manager in Ledger Live Desktop.
  • Install the blockchain apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
  • Go to Accounts → Add Account to add wallets to Ledger Live.
  • Ledger Live will synchronize addresses and display balances.

Step 5: Manage Your Crypto

Ledger Live Desktop allows you to:

  • View balances and portfolio performance.
  • Send and receive crypto, with all transactions confirmed on your Ledger device.
  • Buy, swap, or stake supported cryptocurrencies.
  • Track NFTs or other digital assets.
🔒 Your private keys never leave your Ledger device. Ledger Live prepares transactions, but signing happens on the hardware wallet.

Step 6: Security Best Practices

  • Always use Ledger Live downloaded from the official source.
  • Never share or enter your recovery phrase online or on a computer.
  • Confirm every transaction directly on your hardware wallet.
  • Keep both Ledger Live and your Ledger device firmware up to date.

Summary

Ledger Live Desktop provides a secure, local, and fully functional interface for managing crypto with your Ledger hardware wallet. By combining device-based authentication with a user-friendly desktop interface, it ensures your assets remain safe, private, and under your full control.

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