Ledger® Live: Desktop – Getting Started 🚀

Welcome to your guide for setting up Ledger® Live Desktop — your secure gateway to managing crypto from your computer while keeping your private keys offline and safe. 🔐

1. What Is Ledger Live (Desktop)?

Ledger® Live Desktop is a companion app for Ledger hardware wallets (like Nano S Plus, Nano X, Stax). It lets you:

Track your crypto portfolio in real time 📊
Send & receive supported assets 💸
Install blockchain apps on your device (e.g. Bitcoin, Ethereum) ⚙️
Buy / swap / stake / manage NFTs — all via your device confirmations

2. Why Use Ledger Live Desktop?

Here’s what makes it special:

Your private keys never leave your Ledger device — everything is signed on‑device.
No browser extensions or third‑party wallets needed.
Supports thousands of coins & tokens.
Secure architecture with firmware updates and genuine checks.

3. Before You Begin – Checklist ✅

Make sure you have the following ready before starting:

A genuine Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S+, Nano X, or Stax)
A desktop or laptop (Windows / macOS / Linux) with USB ports
The original USB cable or a good quality cable
A quiet, distraction‑free space to write down recovery words
Pen and the recovery seed sheet (or metal backup if available)

4. Downloading & Installing Ledger Live

Step 4.1 – Go to the Official Site

Open your browser and navigate to ledger.com/start — always type it manually to avoid phishing.

Step 4.2 – Choose Your Operating System

Select the version for Windows, macOS, or Linux, and download the installer.

Step 4.3 – Install the App

Run the installer file and follow on‑screen instructions. On macOS you may need to allow in Security & Privacy settings.

Step 4.4 – Launch & “Get Started”

After installation, open Ledger Live. Click “Get Started” when prompted.

5. Device Setup: New or Restore

Option A: Set Up as New Device

On your Ledger device, select “Set up as new device”.
Choose a PIN code (4–8 digits) using device buttons.
The device will generate a 24‑word recovery phrase, one word at a time.
Write down the words in order — double check spelling & order.
Confirm certain words when prompted.

Option B: Restore from Existing Recovery Phrase

Select “Restore from recovery phrase” on the device.
Enter your 24 words via the device interface (never on computer).
Device re‑derives the same keys / accounts.

6. Pairing with Ledger Live & Genuine Check

In Ledger Live, choose your device model (Nano S+, Nano X, Stax).
Connect your device via USB and unlock it with the PIN.
Ledger Live will perform a “genuine check” — confirm messages shown on your device screen.
Approve the connection on the device when prompted.
You may optionally set a password lock for Ledger Live (this is for the app UI, not the hardware PIN).

7. Install Apps & Add Crypto Accounts

Go to the **Manager** tab in Ledger Live.
If there is a firmware update, follow instructions and confirm on device.
Install the blockchain apps you need (e.g. Bitcoin, Ethereum).
Switch to the **Accounts** tab → “Add account” → choose the crypto, open the corresponding app on the device.
Ledger Live will scan and display your account balances.

Note: Uninstalling an app from the device does *not* delete your funds — your keys remain associated with the same recovery phrase.

8. Receiving & Sending Crypto

Receiving

Select the account in Ledger Live → “Receive”.
Connect your device and open the relevant blockchain app.
Verify that the receive address shown on your computer matches what’s shown on your hardware screen.
Use only that verified address to receive funds.

Sending

Click “Send”, enter recipient address and amount.
Choose network fee (Fast / Medium / Slow) or custom.
Review details carefully on computer screen.
Confirm transaction details on your device — the device screen is the final authority.

9. Updates & Maintenance

Always install firmware updates when prompted — they include security patches.
Update blockchain apps as needed via Manager.
Do not interrupt device or disconnect USB mid‑update.
If something goes wrong, follow Ledger’s official recovery or emergency instructions.

10. Useful Features & Tools

Portfolio Dashboard: View your total holdings, price charts, asset distribution.
Swap / Buy: Exchange one crypto for another or purchase from partners (e.g. Changelly) — signed on‑device.
Staking: Delegate supported assets (ETH, SOL, DOT, etc.) and earn rewards.
NFT Management: View, send, and receive NFTs (ERC‑721 / ERC‑1155) securely.
dApp & Bridge Integrations: Interact with DeFi or bridges while preserving device verification.
Export History: Download transaction history / CSV for taxes or audits.

11. Security Tips & Best Practices 🛡️

Never enter your 24‑word recovery phrase on a computer or share it. Ledger or support will never ask it. ✅
Always verify addresses and transaction details on your hardware device screen.
Use the official site (ledger.com/start) — avoid third‑party or search engine links. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Store backups of your recovery phrase in secure, offline locations (paper, metal).
Be cautious of phishing, fake apps, or browser popups. Many scam attempts impersonate Ledger. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Enable password lock on Ledger Live app to add another layer of protection.
Periodically review installed apps and unused accounts to keep things tidy.
If your recovery phrase is ever compromised, move funds immediately to a new wallet with a fresh phrase.

12. Troubleshooting Tips

Device Not Detected: Try a different USB port or cable.
App Doesn’t Open: Reinstall Ledger Live from official site. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Bluetooth Issues (for Nano X): Note that the desktop version often doesn’t support Bluetooth — USB is safer. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Password Lock Lost: You may need to reset and re‑add accounts (using your recovery phrase) — funds remain safe. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Frozen / Unresponsive App: Update the app, or reinstall, being careful to use official downloads. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

Wrapping Up 🎯

You’re now ready to safely use Ledger® Live Desktop with your Ledger hardware wallet. Remember: security depends on being careful, verifying everything on‑device, and never exposing your recovery phrase. If you follow the steps above, you should be able to track your portfolio, send/receive crypto, stake, and explore NFTs — all with peace of mind.

Need more help? Ledger’s official documentation and support site are always good references to consult. Stay safe and enjoy crypto management! 👍