Ledger® Live: Desktop | Getting Started with Ledger®

As cryptocurrency continues to evolve and become part of mainstream finance, the importance of security and self-custody is more significant than ever. Ledger®, a global leader in hardware wallet technology, provides a powerful solution for individuals seeking secure and private management of digital assets. At the heart of this experience is Ledger® Live: Desktop, a comprehensive software application that allows you to interact with your Ledger® hardware wallet in a user-friendly and secure way.

This guide will walk you through getting started with Ledger Live on your desktop, from installation and setup to managing and securing your crypto portfolio.

What is Ledger® Live: Desktop?

Ledger® Live: Desktop is the official application for managing your Ledger® hardware wallet on a computer. It serves as your control center, allowing you to send and receive cryptocurrencies, manage accounts, monitor portfolio performance, stake crypto assets, and install apps on your Ledger® device.

Unlike traditional software wallets, Ledger® Live operates in conjunction with a hardware wallet, meaning your private keys never leave your device. This greatly reduces the risk of hacks or malware compromising your funds.

Step 1: Set Up Your Ledger® Hardware Wallet

Before using Ledger Live: Desktop, you need to set up your Ledger® hardware wallet. This involves:

Unboxing your Ledger® device (such as the Ledger Nano S Plus® or Ledger Nano X®).
Connecting it to your computer using the included USB cable.
Creating a secure PIN code directly on the device.
Backing up your 24-word recovery phrase, which is the only way to recover your wallet if the device is lost or damaged.

Your 24-word recovery phrase is critical. Write it down and store it in a safe, offline location. Never take a picture or save it on a digital device. Ledger® will never ask you for this phrase.

Step 2: Install Ledger® Live on Your Desktop

To get started with Ledger Live on your desktop, you’ll need to install the software on your Windows®, macOS®, or Linux® system. Once the application is installed and launched, follow the guided steps:

Choose the option to set up a new device or connect an existing one.
Verify your Ledger® device is genuine by following the on-screen instructions.
Set a password for the Ledger Live application to prevent unauthorized access.

Once completed, you’ll have access to the full functionality of Ledger Live on your desktop.

Step 3: Install Crypto Apps and Add Accounts

Ledger® devices can support multiple cryptocurrencies, but each one requires a specific app to be installed on the hardware wallet. Using the “Manager” section in Ledger Live, you can:

Install apps for Bitcoin®, Ethereum®, Solana®, and other supported assets.
Remove apps if needed (removing an app does not delete your funds).
Keep firmware and apps up to date for security and compatibility.

After installing the necessary apps, head to the “Accounts” section to add crypto accounts. Ledger Live will sync with your device and generate wallet addresses for each supported coin or token.

Step 4: Sending and Receiving Crypto

Ledger Live makes it easy to securely send and receive digital currencies. Each transaction is verified on your device, protecting you from phishing or malware attacks.

To receive crypto:

Go to the desired account.
Click “Receive” and generate a wallet address.
Verify the address on your device screen before sharing.

To send crypto:

Select the account and click “Send.”
Enter the recipient’s address and amount.
Confirm the details on your Ledger® device to complete the transaction.

This physical confirmation step ensures that no transaction can be executed without your explicit approval on the hardware wallet.

Step 5: Monitor and Manage Your Portfolio

The “Portfolio” section of Ledger Live: Desktop offers a detailed overview of your assets, including:

Real-time value updates in your preferred fiat currency.
Historical performance tracking through interactive charts.
Account-specific transaction history and balances.

This helps users stay informed and make decisions based on up-to-date data while maintaining full custody of their funds.

Step 6: Advanced Features – Staking, Swapping, and More

Ledger Live: Desktop isn’t limited to basic wallet functions. It also provides access to advanced features such as:

Staking: Earn passive rewards on assets like Ethereum®, Tezos®, Polkadot®, and others directly through the app.
Swapping: Convert one cryptocurrency to another using integrated partners without leaving the security of your device.
NFT Management: View and manage Ethereum and Polygon-based NFTs.
DeFi Access: Securely connect your Ledger® to decentralized apps via wallet extensions.

Each of these actions requires confirmation via your Ledger® device, keeping your assets protected every step of the way.

Security Tips for Ledger® Live: Desktop

To make the most of Ledger Live while protecting your crypto, follow these best practices:

Never share your 24-word recovery phrase.
Only download Ledger Live from official sources.
Keep your device firmware and apps updated.
Enable the app lock password for extra security.
Double-check transaction addresses on your device screen before confirming.
Store your recovery phrase in a safe, offline location—preferably fireproof and waterproof.

By following these habits, you significantly reduce the risk of losing access to your crypto or falling victim to scams.

Conclusion: Take Control with Ledger® Live: Desktop

Ledger® Live: Desktop is a powerful, secure, and user-friendly platform designed for anyone serious about taking full control of their digital assets. By pairing the app with a Ledger® hardware wallet, you gain peace of mind knowing your funds are safe from online threats while enjoying full access to crypto tools and features.