Download & Install Ledger Live Desktop
Ledger Live Desktop can be downloaded from the official Ledger website. Always verify the download link and checksum to ensure authenticity. Installing Ledger Live Desktop on Windows, macOS, or Linux is simple and guided.
This software brings all Ledger features from mobile to desktop, allowing users to manage multiple accounts, monitor crypto portfolios, and securely interact with decentralized applications.
Never download Ledger Live Desktop from third-party sites to avoid malicious software.
Download Ledger LiveInitialize Your Ledger Device
Power on your Ledger device and select a strong PIN. Ledger Live Desktop guides you through creating and confirming your 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is the key to your crypto assets and must be stored offline in a safe location.
Ledger Live Desktop emphasizes security by making sure every step is confirmed on the device screen itself, reducing the risk of malware interference.
- Choose a strong 6–8 digit PIN, avoiding sequential numbers.
- Write down the 24-word recovery phrase in order, twice for backup.
- Never store the recovery phrase digitally or take photos.
Tip: Test recovery on a spare device to ensure the phrase works properly.
Connect Ledger Live Desktop
Open Ledger Live Desktop and connect your device. The software verifies the device authenticity and ensures your connection is secure. Ledger Live Desktop dashboard shows portfolio overview, accounts, and Manager for installing crypto apps.
Using Ledger Live Desktop, you can manage multiple crypto accounts efficiently while ensuring transactions are signed securely using your hardware device.
Create & Manage Accounts
Ledger Live Desktop allows users to create accounts for different cryptocurrencies. Sync them with the hardware wallet for complete control. Name your accounts clearly for easy management and accurate tracking of balances and transaction history.
This is crucial for advanced users managing multiple assets across various networks using Ledger Live Desktop.
Send & Receive Crypto Safely
Receive crypto by confirming the address on your Ledger device. Send transactions by reviewing details carefully on Ledger Live Desktop and confirming them on the device. Start with small test transactions before moving larger amounts.
Never approve transactions without verifying the destination address and amount on the device itself.
Multi-Asset Management
Ledger Live Desktop supports hundreds of cryptocurrencies and NFTs. You can view balances, transaction history, and portfolio performance in a single secure interface. This feature is essential for both beginner and advanced crypto users.
With Ledger Live Desktop, managing diverse assets is straightforward, allowing better decision-making for your investments.
dApp Interaction
Ledger Live Desktop allows secure interaction with decentralized applications (dApps). Sign smart contracts and transactions directly on your Ledger device. This ensures private keys never leave the hardware device while using web3 applications.
Best Practices for Crypto Safety
- Keep your 24-word recovery phrase offline and secure
- Confirm all actions on the Ledger device screen
- Use strong, unique PINs and device passwords
- Regularly update Ledger Live Desktop and device firmware
- Test recovery phrases on a separate device
Following these steps ensures your crypto remains safe from phishing, malware, and unauthorized access.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Ledger Live Desktop mandatory? No, but it provides a secure interface for managing multiple assets.
- Can I remove crypto apps? Yes, accounts remain secure, and apps can be reinstalled anytime.
- What if I forget my PIN? Use your 24-word recovery phrase to reset and restore the device.