ledger-live-desktops

Overview

This guide walks you through Ledger Live Desktop — the app used to manage hardware-wallet accounts, send and receive supported cryptocurrencies, install apps on your device, and keep your portfolio secure. While this is a detailed, practical guide for new users of Ledger Live Desktop, it is not an official Ledger document. It focuses on simple language, clear steps, and practical troubleshooting so you can get Ledger Live Desktop running quickly and securely.

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Why use Ledger Live Desktop?

Security-first

Ledger Live Desktop works with Ledger hardware wallets to keep private keys offline and safe.

Multi-coin

Manage Bitcoin, Ethereum, and hundreds of other assets in one place with Ledger Live Desktop.

Portfolio view

Track balances, performance and history with a single app dashboard.

App management

Install and update apps on your Ledger device through Ledger Live Desktop.

Download & Install Ledger Live Desktop

The fastest way to get Ledger Live Desktop is to download it from the official Ledger website — always verify the download source and checksums. Below are universal steps for Windows, macOS and Linux. If you prefer, search your browser for "Ledger Live Desktop download" and verify the official domain before installing.

Step-by-step: Install Ledger Live Desktop

Visit the official site: Open your browser and go to the Ledger downloads page. Confirm the domain looks legitimate and check for HTTPS in the address bar.
Choose platform: Pick Windows, macOS or Linux and download the installer for Ledger Live Desktop.
Verify checksum: When possible, verify the file checksum (SHA256) shown on the official site to ensure integrity.
Run installer: Follow the installer prompts to install Ledger Live Desktop on your computer.
Open the app: Launch Ledger Live Desktop and follow the on-screen setup assistant for new or existing devices.

Example (Linux AppImage):

chmod +x ledger-live-desktop-*.AppImage
./ledger-live-desktop-*.AppImage

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Set up your Ledger device with Ledger Live Desktop

Once Ledger Live Desktop is installed, the app will guide you to create or restore a wallet and to pair your physical Ledger device (Nano S / Nano X / Nano S Plus). Follow the steps below for a secure setup.

Start the app: Launch Ledger Live Desktop and select "Get started".
Choose your option: Create a new device or restore from a recovery phrase. If you already have a Ledger device, choose the appropriate option.
Connect device: Connect your Ledger hardware device via USB or Bluetooth (if supported). Confirm device model on-screen.
Set PIN: Follow device prompts to set a secure PIN on the ledger device. Do this in private — never share the PIN.
Write down recovery phrase: Ledger devices display a recovery phrase (usually 24 words). Write these words down on the provided card and store it securely offline. Never store the recovery phrase on a computer, phone, or cloud storage.
Install apps: Use Ledger Live Desktop to install cryptocurrency apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) onto the device. These apps enable account creation inside Ledger Live Desktop.
Add accounts: After installing apps, use Ledger Live Desktop to add accounts for the supported coins you want to manage.

Important security reminder: Ledger Live Desktop is an application that talks to your offline hardware wallet. The private keys never leave the device. Keep the recovery phrase secure and never share it — Ledger support will never ask for it.

Using Ledger Live Desktop: Send, Receive & Manage

After setup, Ledger Live Desktop gives you a powerful yet simple interface for managing crypto assets.

Receive: Click Receive, choose an account and verify the address on your Ledger device before sharing it.
Send: Click Send, enter recipient address and amount, connect and confirm the transaction on your device.
Manager: Install, update or remove apps on the Ledger device via the Manager tab in Ledger Live Desktop.
Portfolio & Market: Check prices, portfolio breakdown and transaction history from the main dashboard.

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Security best practices

Always download Ledger Live Desktop from the official website and verify the checksum.
Never share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone; Ledger support will never request it.
Keep your computer and Ledger device firmware up to date using Ledger Live Desktop.
Use a strong, unique PIN on your Ledger device and enable device passphrase if you understand how it works.
Consider using a dedicated device or clean OS for high-value accounts.

Troubleshooting common issues

Problems can usually be solved with a few checks:

Device not detected: Try a different USB cable/port, ensure USB debugging or required permissions are enabled on your OS, restart Ledger Live Desktop.
App not found: Install the cryptocurrency app on your Ledger device via the Manager in Ledger Live Desktop.
Sync issues: Make sure Ledger Live Desktop is updated and your internet connection is stable. Try toggling the app or reinstalling if necessary.
Transactions failing: Verify the address on the device, network fees, and that the ledger app is up to date.

Top FAQs — Ledger Live Desktop

1. Is Ledger Live Desktop free to use?

Yes. Ledger Live Desktop is free to download and use. You may pay network fees when sending transactions.

2. Can I use Ledger Live Desktop on multiple computers?

Yes. Ledger Live Desktop can be installed on multiple computers. The private keys remain on the Ledger device; using the same recovery phrase will restore access if needed.

3. What happens if I lose my Ledger device?

If you lose your Ledger device but still have your recovery phrase, you can restore access to your funds by obtaining a new compatible device and restoring with the recovery phrase. If you lose both device and recovery phrase, funds will be unrecoverable.

4. Is Ledger Live Desktop safe for beginners?

Yes — Ledger Live Desktop is designed for beginners, but security is crucial. Carefully follow recovery phrase and firmware update instructions.

5. How long does it take to set up Ledger Live Desktop?

Typical setup time ranges from 10 to 20 minutes depending on familiarity with the process.

6. Does Ledger Live Desktop support all cryptocurrencies?

Ledger Live Desktop supports a large selection of major cryptocurrencies and tokens. Some niche tokens require third-party integrations or custom derivation paths. Check Ledger Live Desktop supported currencies in the app or on the official support pages.

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Wrapping up

This page contains clear, actionable steps to get Ledger Live Desktop installed, paired with your Ledger hardware wallet and ready to manage cryptocurrencies. Remember: always verify official download sources and keep your recovery phrase offline and secure. If you need more advanced instructions (OS-specific fixes, enterprise deployment, or developer integration) search for dedicated articles or check official support resources.