Ledger® Live: Desktop | Getting started - Ledger 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭®

Introduction

Ledger Live Desktop provides a unified platform to manage your digital assets safely. With integration to Ledger hardware wallets, it ensures that your private keys remain protected inside the device while you monitor your portfolio, send or receive funds, and access decentralized services. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the complete process of setting up and using Ledger Live Desktop effectively.

System Requirements

Before you begin, ensure your computer meets the minimum requirements for running Ledger Live Desktop:

Operating Systems: Windows 10 (64-bit), macOS 12+, or Linux (Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian).
USB Port: Required to connect Ledger Nano S Plus or Nano X (Bluetooth optional for Nano X).
Internet Connection: Needed for blockchain synchronization and updates.
Latest Firmware: Ensure your Ledger device is updated to the latest version.

Step 1: Downloading Ledger Live Desktop

Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website. Avoid unofficial sources to prevent security risks.

Visit the Ledger Live download page on Ledger.com.
Select your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
Download and install the application following on-screen instructions.
Launch Ledger Live Desktop once installation is complete.

Tip: You can verify the download’s authenticity by checking its digital signature, ensuring the file is genuine and unaltered.

Step 2: Setting Up Ledger Live Desktop

When you first open Ledger Live Desktop, you’ll be guided through an initial configuration process:

Choose your preferred language and confirm.
Set a secure password to protect access to your Ledger Live data.
Agree to the terms of use and privacy policy.
Decide whether to share anonymous usage analytics (optional).

After setup, you’ll be greeted by the main dashboard where you can connect your Ledger device and begin adding accounts.

Step 3: Connecting Your Ledger Device

Ledger Live Desktop works in tandem with Ledger hardware wallets. Follow these steps to establish a secure connection:

Connect your Ledger Nano X or Ledger Nano S Plus to your computer via USB cable (Bluetooth optional for Nano X).
Enter your PIN code on the device to unlock it.
Ledger Live will automatically detect your device.
If prompted, allow Ledger Manager access on your device’s screen.

If this is your first time using Ledger, you may need to install the Ledger Manager app to manage your hardware wallet’s firmware and crypto apps.

Step 4: Adding Cryptocurrency Accounts

To view and manage specific cryptocurrencies in Ledger Live Desktop, you must add accounts for each asset type.

On the left sidebar, click “Accounts.”
Click the “Add Account” button.
Select the cryptocurrency (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Cardano).
Open the corresponding app on your Ledger device when prompted.
Ledger Live will synchronize and import your account data.

Once added, you can view your account balance, transaction history, and performance analytics on the dashboard.

Step 5: Sending and Receiving Crypto

Receiving Funds

Go to the account you wish to receive funds in.
Click “Receive.”
Generate a receiving address and verify it on your Ledger device’s display.
Copy and share the verified address safely.

Sending Funds

Select the account you wish to send from.
Click “Send.”
Enter the recipient’s address and amount.
Confirm details and verify the transaction on your Ledger device.

Transactions are only signed after physical approval on the Ledger device, ensuring full protection from unauthorized activity.

Step 6: Updating Firmware and Apps

Keeping your Ledger device and Ledger Live Desktop updated is critical for maintaining security.

In Ledger Live, click “My Ledger.”
Allow device manager access when prompted.
Install firmware updates for your Ledger device if available.
Install or update coin-specific apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).

Always verify updates on your device screen before approving installation.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Device Not Detected

Ensure your Ledger device is unlocked and connected properly.
Try another USB port or cable.
Check that Ledger Live and device firmware are up to date.
Restart both the app and your computer.

Synchronization Problems

Go to Settings → Help → Clear Cache.
Reopen Ledger Live to re-sync blockchain data.

Transaction Fails to Send

Ensure your Ledger device app matches the asset type you’re sending.
Verify that you have enough funds to cover fees.
Check the blockchain network status for congestion.

Best Security Practices

Download Ledger Live only from Ledger.com.
Never share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone.
Always verify all addresses and transaction details on your device screen.
Keep your operating system, Ledger Live, and firmware updated.
Store your recovery phrase in a secure, offline location.

FAQs

Is Ledger Live Desktop free to use?

Yes. The Ledger Live application is free to download and use with your Ledger device.

Can I install Ledger Live on multiple computers?

Yes. You can install Ledger Live on multiple devices, but transactions always require your Ledger hardware wallet for signing.

Which cryptocurrencies are supported?

Ledger Live supports over 1,800 crypto assets including Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, and many ERC-20 tokens.

Can I use Ledger Live without the internet?

No. Internet access is required to synchronize data with blockchain networks and fetch market prices.

Where can I get official help?

Visit Ledger Support for verified troubleshooting guides and customer assistance.

Conclusion

Ledger® Live: Desktop gives users complete control over their cryptocurrency portfolio, while ensuring that all private keys remain secure on the Ledger hardware wallet. From setup to advanced management, it provides an intuitive, user-friendly experience backed by world-class security standards. By following this official getting started guide from Ledger 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭®, you can confidently manage your crypto, knowing that your assets are safe, verifiable, and fully under your control.