Ledger Live®® Desktop — Getting Started | Official Ledger Wallet

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— 2 min read

Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application designed to manage your Ledger hardware wallet securely. It allows users to track cryptocurrency balances, send and receive funds, manage multiple accounts, and install apps—all while keeping private keys offline.

Ledger Live Desktop works with Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus, and Nano X devices and ensures complete control over your digital assets.

What is Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop is the desktop version of Ledger’s management software. Unlike web wallets or mobile apps, it provides:

  • Offline private key storage: Your keys never leave the Ledger device.
  • Secure transactions: Every operation requires manual approval on the device.
  • Portfolio overview: Track all your cryptocurrency accounts in one interface.
  • Firmware management: Keep your Ledger device updated safely.

By using Ledger Live Desktop, you gain full control and enhanced security over your cryptocurrency holdings.

Key Features

  1. Multi-Currency Support: Ledger Live Desktop supports over 1,800 cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and ERC-20 tokens.
  2. Account Management: Create and manage multiple accounts for different cryptocurrencies.
  3. Send and Receive Crypto: Transactions require device confirmation, protecting you from malware.
  4. Portfolio Overview: View balances, transaction history, and account performance in a single dashboard.
  5. Firmware Updates: Update your Ledger hardware wallet safely via Ledger Live Desktop.
  6. App Management: Install cryptocurrency apps on your Ledger device directly from the desktop application.

How to Set Up Ledger Live Desktop

Step 1: Download the Desktop App

  • Visit the official site: Ledger.com/Start®.
  • Download Ledger Live Desktop for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux).

Step 2: Install the Application

  • Run the installer and follow on-screen instructions to complete installation.
  • Open Ledger Live Desktop once installed.

Step 3: Connect Your Ledger Device

  • Use the provided USB cable to connect your Ledger hardware wallet to your computer.
  • For Ledger Nano X, Bluetooth connection is also supported.

Step 4: Initialize or Access Your Wallet

  • If the device is new, set a PIN and create a 24-word recovery phrase.
  • If using an existing wallet, enter your recovery phrase securely to access funds.

Adding Accounts in Ledger Live Desktop

  1. Open Ledger Live Desktop and select “Add Account.”
  2. Choose the cryptocurrency you want to manage.
  3. Generate wallet addresses for deposits.
  4. Repeat for additional cryptocurrencies to manage all your assets from a single interface.

Sending and Receiving Crypto

  • Receiving: Share your Ledger-generated wallet address. Always verify it on the device.
  • Sending: Enter the recipient address in Ledger Live Desktop and confirm on your device.

Every transaction requires physical confirmation, ensuring that malware or compromised systems cannot execute unauthorized transfers.

Firmware and App Management

  • Ledger Live Desktop provides notifications for firmware updates.
  • Update your device safely through the application to patch vulnerabilities.
  • Install or uninstall cryptocurrency apps on your Ledger device directly from Ledger Live Desktop.

Security Best Practices

  • Download Ledger Live Desktop only from Ledger.com/Start®.
  • Keep your recovery phrase offline and secure.
  • Confirm all transactions directly on your Ledger device.
  • Regularly update both Ledger Live Desktop and device firmware.
  • Disconnect your device when not in use.

Conclusion

Ledger Live Desktop offers a secure and efficient way to manage your Ledger hardware wallet. By combining a desktop interface with offline private keys, Ledger Live Desktop ensures maximum security and full control over your cryptocurrency assets.

Start managing your crypto safely today by downloading Ledger Live Desktop at Ledger.com/Start®.

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