Ledger® Live: Desktop | Getting Started with Ledger

Ledger® Live: Desktop is the official application used to interact with your Ledger hardware wallet and securely manage your cryptocurrency portfolio. Designed for use on Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems, Ledger Live provides a user-friendly interface while keeping your private keys offline and secure. This guide walks you through the process of setting up and using Ledger Live on your desktop.

What is Ledger Live?

Ledger Live is a comprehensive application that works with your Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Nano X hardware wallet. It allows you to manage multiple crypto assets, install and uninstall apps on your device, track your portfolio, stake supported assets, and perform transactions with full control and security.

Unlike traditional login systems, Ledger Live does not require a username or password. Your Ledger device acts as the secure gateway, and you must physically connect it and unlock it with your PIN to access your accounts.

Step 1: Set Up Your Ledger Device

Before using Ledger Live, you need to initialize your hardware wallet:

  1. Unbox your Ledger device and confirm that the package is sealed and untampered.
  2. Turn on the device and choose "Set up as new device."
  3. Select a secure PIN code on the device.
  4. Write down your 24-word recovery phrase and store it in a safe place offline. This phrase is your only backup in case the device is lost or damaged.

Never share your recovery phrase with anyone, and never enter it into any website or application.

Step 2: Install Ledger Live

Install the Ledger Live application on your desktop. After launching it, select "Get Started" and follow the on-screen instructions. Choose your device model and select whether you are setting up a new device or restoring an existing one.

Once prompted, connect your Ledger device via USB and unlock it using your PIN. Ledger Live will verify the authenticity of your device and proceed to the dashboard.

Step 3: Add Cryptocurrency Accounts

To begin managing your assets:

  1. Navigate to the "Accounts" tab in Ledger Live.
  2. Click on "Add Account."
  3. Select the cryptocurrency you want to manage, such as Bitcoin or Ethereum.
  4. Install the relevant app on your Ledger device if prompted.
  5. Ledger Live will then create an account and sync it with your device.

You can add multiple accounts for different assets and monitor them all within the application.

Step 4: Send and Receive Crypto

To receive crypto, go to the account, select "Receive," and verify the address on your Ledger device. Share this address with the sender.

To send crypto, choose the "Send" option, input the recipient’s address, amount, and confirm the transaction on your Ledger device. Transactions must be physically approved on the device for added security.

Conclusion

Ledger Live: Desktop is a powerful tool that offers a secure and intuitive experience for managing digital assets. By combining a trusted hardware wallet with a desktop interface, users maintain complete control over their private keys while accessing advanced features like staking, app management, and portfolio tracking. Always ensure your device firmware and Ledger Live app are up to date, and safeguard your recovery phrase to maintain full security.