Ledger® Live: Desktop | Getting Started with Ledger

Introduction

Ledger Live is the official desktop application for managing your Ledger hardware wallet. It offers a secure and intuitive interface for buying, selling, swapping, and staking cryptocurrencies, as well as managing thousands of supported assets. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to install Ledger Live, connect your device, and begin managing your crypto securely from your desktop.

System Requirements

Before installing Ledger Live, ensure your system meets the following minimum requirements:

• Operating System: Windows 10+, macOS 10.14+, Linux Ubuntu 20.04+
• USB Port: Required for connecting your Ledger Nano S or Nano X
• Internet Connection: Needed for app updates and blockchain syncing

Step 1: Download Ledger Live

To ensure your security, always download Ledger Live from the official website: www.ledger.com/ledger-live.

Select the version compatible with your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux), and follow the installation instructions.

After installation, launch Ledger Live. It will prompt you to either set up a new device or connect an existing Ledger device.

Step 2: Set Up or Restore a Ledger Device

If you’re new to Ledger, choose “Set up a new device.” You’ll be guided through:

• Initializing your Ledger Nano S or Nano X
• Creating a secure PIN
• Writing down your 24-word recovery phrase

Important: Your recovery phrase is the only backup of your crypto assets. Write it down on the recovery sheet and store it in a safe, offline location. Never share it or store it digitally.

If you already own a Ledger and want to restore it, choose “Restore device from recovery phrase.” Follow the instructions to enter your 24-word phrase and regain access to your wallet.

Step 3: Add Your Accounts

Once your Ledger device is set up and connected, you’ll need to install the necessary blockchain apps and add accounts:

1. Open Ledger Live and go to the “Manager” tab.
2. Allow Ledger Manager on your device when prompted.
3. Search and install apps for the cryptocurrencies you wish to manage (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
4. Go to the “Accounts” tab and click “Add Account.”
5. Select the crypto asset and follow the instructions to sync your wallet address with the Ledger Live interface.

This process enables you to view your balances, transaction history, and receive new funds.

Step 4: Receive Cryptocurrency

To receive crypto:

1. Click the “Receive” tab in Ledger Live.
2. Select the account you want to receive funds into.
3. Connect and unlock your Ledger device.
4. Verify and approve the receiving address on your device.
5. Copy the verified address and share it with the sender.

Always confirm the address on your Ledger device display to ensure it's not being tampered with by malware.

Step 5: Send Cryptocurrency

To send funds:

1. Click “Send” and choose the account you want to send from.
2. Paste the recipient's address and input the amount.
3. Review the transaction details.
4. Connect and unlock your Ledger device.
5. Verify and sign the transaction directly on your Ledger device.

Once signed, Ledger Live will broadcast the transaction to the network.

Step 6: Stake Crypto Assets

Ledger Live supports staking for several assets, including Ethereum, Tezos, Polkadot, and Cosmos. To stake:

• Select the asset from your accounts.
• Click “Earn rewards” or “Stake.”
• Follow the prompts to delegate your tokens to a validator.
• Your tokens remain in your control and rewards are automatically distributed.

Buy, Sell, and Swap Crypto

Ledger Live integrates with third-party services to allow buying, selling, and swapping cryptocurrencies directly within the app. To access these services:

• Click on the “Buy/Sell” or “Swap” tab.
• Choose your provider and follow the steps.
• Verify transaction details on your device before finalizing.

Note: These features may not be available in all countries or for all assets.

Security Best Practices

To maximize the safety of your funds:

• Keep your recovery phrase secure and offline. Never share or store it digitally.
• Always verify addresses and transactions on your Ledger device.
• Keep Ledger Live and your device firmware updated.
• Use antivirus software and avoid downloading suspicious files.

Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase. Be cautious of phishing attempts via email, browser extensions, or fake support websites.

Backup and Recovery

If your Ledger device is lost, damaged, or stolen, you can recover your funds using your 24-word recovery phrase on a new Ledger device:

1. Buy a new Ledger device from the official site or an authorized reseller.
2. Choose “Restore device from recovery phrase” during setup.
3. Enter your 24-word phrase carefully in the correct order.

Once restored, your Ledger Live app will be able to re-sync your accounts and assets using the same public addresses.

Conclusion

Ledger Live for desktop is a powerful and secure application that brings complete control of your cryptocurrency portfolio to your fingertips. From setting up your hardware wallet and managing assets to staking, swapping, and earning rewards, Ledger Live delivers all-in-one functionality in a highly secure environment.

By combining ease of use with Ledger's industry-leading hardware security, Ledger Live is the ideal choice for both beginners and experienced crypto users looking to safeguard their digital wealth.