Welcome to Ledger® Live Desktop®
Ledger Live Desktop® is the official application developed by Ledger® to manage your cryptocurrency securely with a Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Ledger Stax hardware wallet. With this powerful tool, users can install apps, monitor balances, send and receive crypto, stake supported assets, and ensure firmware is up to date — all while maintaining full control of their private keys.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the installation, setup, features, and best practices for keeping your crypto safe using Ledger Live on your desktop environment.
Why Use Ledger Live Desktop®?
Ledger Live Desktop is designed with security, simplicity, and efficiency in mind. Here's what makes it an essential tool for any Ledger user:
- Offline Signing: Your private keys never leave the device.
- Multi-Asset Support: Manage over 5,000 cryptocurrencies from one dashboard.
- Staking and DeFi Access: Earn rewards directly through Ledger Live.
- Built-in Buy/Sell/Swap: Use trusted partners integrated into the app.
- Cross-platform Compatibility: Works on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Getting Started
1. Downloading the Official App
Visit the official Ledger website at www.ledger.com/start. Select “Download Ledger Live” and choose your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux). Avoid downloading from third-party websites.
2. Installing Ledger Live
Once the installer is downloaded, follow the installation prompts. Upon launch, you’ll be guided through setting up your device or connecting an existing one.
3. Initial Setup
After launching Ledger Live:
- Choose to set up a new device or restore from recovery phrase.
- Follow instructions on your Ledger device to configure a PIN.
- Write down your 24-word recovery phrase. Store it securely offline.
4. Connect and Pair
Connect your device using the USB cable and unlock it. Ledger Live will detect the device and prompt you to install the latest firmware and apps.
Managing Crypto with Ledger Live
Install Blockchain Apps
Each supported cryptocurrency requires an app to be installed on your device. Use the “Manager” tab to install Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other apps directly from Ledger Live.
Create Wallet Accounts
Under the “Accounts” section, add accounts for each asset. This step allows Ledger Live to display balances, transaction history, and staking options.
Receive Crypto
- Select “Receive” from the menu.
- Choose the crypto account.
- Verify the receiving address shown on your Ledger device matches what’s on the screen.
- Copy and share this public address to receive funds.
Send Crypto
- Click on “Send” in the menu.
- Enter the recipient’s address and amount.
- Confirm all transaction details on your Ledger device screen.
- Approve to sign and broadcast the transaction.
Ledger Live Features
Portfolio Overview
The dashboard provides a real-time snapshot of your entire crypto portfolio including fiat value, percentage change, and historical performance charts.
Buy, Sell, and Swap
Use integrated services like Coinify or Changelly to buy or swap crypto directly inside the Ledger Live app without exposing private keys.
Staking & Yield
Stake supported coins such as Ethereum, Polkadot, and Tezos to earn passive income. Ledger Live also allows delegating to multiple validators.
Security Tips & Best Practices
- ✅ Always confirm transactions on your physical device screen before approving.
- ✅ Regularly check for firmware and app updates in Ledger Live Manager.
- ✅ Enable “Auto-lock” and logout features in Ledger Live for extra protection.
- ✅ Use a strong PIN that’s hard to guess.
- ✅ Store your 24-word seed in a fireproof, offline location (use metal backups if possible).
- ❌ Do not connect your Ledger device to untrusted computers or public Wi-Fi.
- ❌ Never enter your seed into any software or website.
Troubleshooting & Support
Ledger Live Doesn’t Detect Device
Try another USB port, cable, or reboot the app and device