Ledger™ Live: Desktop — Complete Interactive Guide Step-By-Step

Step through Ledger Live Desktop installation, Ledger device setup, account management, transactions, and security best practices interactively. Learn while exploring each step in detail!

Step 1: Download Ledger Live

Go to the official Ledger website, select your operating system, and download Ledger Live. Verify the file checksum to ensure authenticity.

Step 2: Initialize Ledger Device

Connect your Ledger device, power it on, set a strong PIN, and carefully write down your 24-word recovery phrase offline.

Step 3: Connect Ledger Live Desktop

Launch Ledger Live Desktop, connect the device, verify the dashboard, and install the necessary coin apps.

Step 4: Add Accounts

Create cryptocurrency accounts, sync addresses with Ledger Live, and check balances carefully.

Step 5: Test Transactions

Send small test amounts to ensure everything works correctly before transferring larger sums.

Feature

Secure Portfolio Management

Ledger Live Desktop provides a consolidated view of your crypto portfolio across multiple accounts. Real-time balance updates keep you informed.

Feature

Multi-Currency Support

Manage Bitcoin, Ethereum, and over 1,800 other cryptocurrencies with Ledger Live Desktop. Add multiple accounts with ease.

Feature

dApp Integration

Seamlessly connect with decentralized apps (dApps) through Ledger Live Desktop. Approve smart contract transactions safely on-device.

Feature

Buy, Swap & Stake

Buy crypto directly, swap between assets, and stake supported coins within Ledger Live Desktop—all verified via your hardware wallet.

Feature

Firmware & App Updates

Keep your Ledger device and Ledger Live apps updated for security and performance. Always verify updates on the device screen.

Security

Best Security Practices

  • Never share your 24-word recovery phrase.
  • Verify all transactions on-device.
  • Use unique strong PIN and OS password.
  • Regularly update Ledger Live and device firmware.
  • Keep backup copies of recovery phrase offline.

Tip: Test restores on a spare device if possible to ensure your backups work correctly.

Advanced

Optional Advanced Features

  • Custom RPCs and testnets for developers.
  • Manual gas control for time-sensitive transactions.
  • Account separation to compartmentalize risk.
  • Staking and earning yield securely.

Always understand risks and verify transactions on your Ledger device.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is Ledger Live mandatory? No, but it is the official companion software for Ledger devices.
  • Can I remove apps? Yes. Accounts remain secure; apps can be reinstalled as needed.
  • Forgot PIN? Reset the device and restore via your 24-word phrase.
  • Can I split my recovery phrase? Only with a secure, understood Shamir backup scheme.