Ledger® Live: Desktop | Getting Started with Ledgér

Introduction

Ledger® Live Desktop is the official application for Ledger hardware wallets. It provides a secure and intuitive platform to manage your cryptocurrencies, monitor your portfolio, send and receive funds, and stake supported digital assets. This guide offers a detailed walkthrough to get started, ensuring your crypto journey is both safe and efficient.

Tip: Only download Ledger® Live Desktop from the official Ledger website to prevent phishing attacks.

Step 1: Download and Install Ledger® Live Desktop

Visit Ledger.com/ledger-live.
Select the version compatible with your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux).
Download and run the installer, following on-screen instructions.
Launch Ledger® Live Desktop and select “Get Started”.

Tip: Verify the file checksum to ensure authenticity.

Step 2: Connect Your Ledger Device

Connect your Ledger hardware wallet using the supplied USB cable.
Enter your PIN code to unlock the device.
Ensure the dashboard screen appears on the device.

Important: Never share your PIN or recovery phrase. Ledger will never ask for them.

Step 3: Initialize Ledger® Live Desktop

Choose “Set up as new device” or “Restore from recovery phrase”.
Follow the on-screen instructions to initialize your Ledger device securely.
Confirm all actions on both your Ledger device and Ledger® Live Desktop.

Step 4: Set PIN and Backup Recovery Phrase

Create a strong PIN code to protect your device.
Write down your 24-word recovery phrase using the recovery sheet.
Store the recovery phrase offline in multiple secure locations.

Important: The recovery phrase is the only backup. Anyone with access can control your funds.

Step 5: Install Cryptocurrency Apps on Your Ledger Device

Open the “Manager” tab in Ledger® Live Desktop.
Allow Ledger Live to access your device.
Select the apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage.
Click “Install” and wait for completion.

Step 6: Add Accounts

Go to the “Accounts” tab in Ledger® Live Desktop.
Click “Add Account”.
Select the cryptocurrency you wish to add.
Follow on-screen instructions to complete setup.

Step 7: Sending and Receiving Cryptocurrencies

To receive: Click “Receive”, verify the address on your device, and share it with the sender.
To send: Click “Send”, input recipient address and amount, verify on the device, and confirm the transaction.

Tip: Always verify addresses directly on your Ledger device screen to prevent malware or phishing attacks.

Step 8: Portfolio Monitoring

Check real-time balances for all accounts.
Review transaction history for each cryptocurrency.
Use the dashboard to track your portfolio performance over time.

Step 9: Staking and Earning Rewards

Select a supported cryptocurrency for staking.
Click “Stake” and follow the instructions to delegate funds.
Monitor and claim staking rewards directly through Ledger® Live Desktop.

Tip: Only stake cryptocurrencies officially supported by Ledger.

Step 10: Firmware and Ledger® Live Updates

Regularly check for Ledger Live Desktop updates in the “Manager” tab.
Update device firmware when prompted, following all instructions.
Do not disconnect your device during updates.

Important: Firmware updates ensure security and support for new cryptocurrencies.

Step 11: Security Best Practices

Never share your PIN or recovery phrase.
Verify transaction addresses on your Ledger device screen.
Store your recovery phrase offline in secure locations.
Consider using a passphrase for added security.

Step 12: Troubleshooting & Support

Ensure Ledger Live Desktop and firmware are up-to-date.
Check USB connections and device functionality.
Visit Ledger Support for assistance.

Tip: Never share your recovery phrase with support personnel.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully set up Ledger® Live Desktop. Your Ledger wallet is now ready to securely send, receive, stake, and monitor cryptocurrencies.

Follow security best practices, safeguard your recovery phrase, and regularly update your software to ensure maximum protection. Your secure crypto management journey begins today.