Ledger Live Desktop® | Manage Your Crypto™ Assets Safely

Official guide for downloading, installing, and managing your Ledger hardware wallet with Ledger Live Desktop.

Introduction

Ledger Live Desktop is the secure software that allows you to manage Bitcoin, Ethereum, NFTs, and hundreds of other assets safely with your Ledger Nano hardware wallet. This colorful guide takes you through setup, security, transactions, staking, and troubleshooting.

Step 1: Download Ledger Live Desktop

Visit Ledger.com/start and select the download for your operating system. Only use the official Ledger website to ensure safety from malware or phishing.

⚠️ Reminder: Fake download sites exist. Always confirm you are on Ledger.com.

Step 2: Install Ledger Live

Windows: Open the installer (.exe) and follow the setup wizard.
macOS: Drag the Ledger Live app into Applications.
Linux: Use the provided AppImage or package instructions from the official page.

Step 3: Connect Your Device

Plug your Ledger Nano X or Nano S Plus via USB, open the Ledger Live Desktop app, and choose your device to begin initialization.

Step 4: Secure Setup

Create a secure PIN directly on your Ledger device.
Write down the 24-word recovery phrase displayed on the screen.
Store it offline in a safe place. Never share or digitize your recovery phrase.

Step 5: Add Accounts & Install Apps

In Ledger Live Desktop, install blockchain apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) using the Manager tab. Then add accounts to begin managing balances, sending, and receiving funds.

Step 6: Manage Your Assets

Receive

Click “Receive,” select the account, and confirm the address on your device before sharing it.

Send

Click “Send,” enter the destination address and amount, then confirm on your Ledger device to finalize.

Step 7: Explore Features

Stake supported tokens like ETH, DOT, and XTZ to earn rewards.
Buy and swap crypto securely within Ledger Live.
Track portfolio performance with charts and analytics.
Manage NFTs on Ethereum and Polygon networks.

Supported Assets

Asset	Features
Bitcoin (BTC)	Send, Receive, Track
Ethereum (ETH)	Send, Receive, NFTs, Staking
Polkadot (DOT)	Send, Receive, Staking
Tezos (XTZ)	Send, Receive, Staking
Polygon (MATIC)	Send, Receive, NFTs

Security Tips

Always verify addresses on your Ledger device screen.
Never share your recovery phrase with anyone.
Update Ledger Live and device firmware regularly.
Access Ledger services only via the official site.

Troubleshooting

Device not detected: Try a different USB port or update drivers.
Storage full: Uninstall unused apps (funds remain safe).
Transaction error: Check gas fees or update the app.
Forgot PIN: Reset the device and restore with your recovery phrase.

FAQ

Can I recover funds if my device is lost?

Yes, using your 24-word recovery phrase on a new Ledger device.

Does Ledger Live Desktop support NFTs?

Yes, on Ethereum and Polygon networks.

Is Ledger Live safe for beginners?

Yes, it balances simplicity with world-class security.

Conclusion

With Ledger Live Desktop, you can manage your crypto™ assets safely, trade, stake, and explore Web3 while ensuring private keys never leave your hardware wallet. By following this step-by-step guide, you ensure maximum protection while enjoying full control of your digital assets.

Start Now with Ledger Live Desktop