Ledger Live: Desktop — Getting™ Started

Welcome to the official guide for Ledger Live Desktop. Ledger Live is the official software designed to manage Ledger hardware wallets, allowing you to securely store cryptocurrencies, manage NFTs, participate in DeFi, stake assets, and interact safely with Web3 applications. This guide provides step-by-step instructions to get started with Ledger Live Desktop and optimize your crypto management securely.

1. Introduction to Ledger and Ledger Live

Ledger is a global leader in cryptocurrency security, offering hardware wallets to store private keys offline. Ledger Live Desktop is the software that connects your Ledger device to manage assets, track portfolio balances, and access blockchain applications safely.

• Ledger Nano S Plus: A compact, beginner-friendly hardware wallet.
• Ledger Nano X: Advanced device with Bluetooth, multi-asset support, and mobile connectivity.
• Ledger Live Desktop: Official software for securely managing wallets, NFTs, DeFi, staking, and Web3 interactions.

2. Why Secure Crypto Management Matters

Ownership of cryptocurrency relies entirely on private keys. Ledger devices and Ledger Live provide:

• Offline storage of private keys.
• Physical confirmation for every transaction.
• Support for multiple cryptocurrencies and blockchain networks.
• Backup and recovery through a 24-word recovery phrase.

3. Downloading Ledger Live Desktop

To begin:

1. Go to the official Ledger Live page: Ledger.com.
2. Select the version compatible with your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
3. Download the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
4. Launch Ledger Live Desktop to start the setup process.

4. Initializing Your Ledger Hardware Wallet

Once Ledger Live Desktop is installed, initialize your Ledger device:

1. Connect your Ledger device via USB (or Bluetooth for Ledger Nano X).
2. Power on the device and follow on-screen prompts.
3. Create a secure PIN code to prevent unauthorized access.
4. Write down the 24-word recovery phrase on the provided sheet and store it securely offline.

Important: Never store your recovery phrase digitally. It is the only method to restore your wallet if your device is lost or damaged.

5. Adding Cryptocurrency Accounts

Ledger Live Desktop allows you to add accounts for supported cryptocurrencies:

• Open Ledger Live and click “Add Account.”
• Select the cryptocurrency you wish to manage.
• Install the corresponding blockchain app on your Ledger device.
• Verify the account address on your device before confirming in Ledger Live.

6. Sending and Receiving Crypto

Ledger Live Desktop ensures secure sending and receiving of digital assets:

1. To receive, copy your account address from Ledger Live and share it with the sender.
2. To send, enter the recipient’s address and amount, then confirm on your Ledger device.
3. Always verify addresses on the device to prevent phishing or errors.

7. Buying, Selling, and Swapping Cryptocurrencies

Ledger Live integrates with trusted partners for buying, selling, and swapping crypto:

• Purchase crypto using fiat directly within Ledger Live.
• Swap supported cryptocurrencies safely without exposing private keys online.
• Track transactions, swaps, and portfolio balances securely in one interface.

8. Managing Multiple Blockchains

Ledger Live supports multiple blockchains including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Binance Smart Chain, Cardano, and Polygon:

• Manage multiple wallets across different networks.
• Send and receive assets securely.
• Participate safely in staking, liquidity pools, and DeFi platforms.

9. NFT Management

Ledger Live Desktop allows secure NFT management:

• View NFT collections on supported platforms.
• Sign NFT transactions securely on your Ledger device.
• Keep private keys offline during all NFT interactions.

10. DeFi Integration

Ledger Live Desktop provides secure access to DeFi applications:

1. Connect your Ledger device to DeFi platforms using WalletConnect or Ledger Live integration.
2. Authorize all transactions on your Ledger device.
3. Monitor balances, staking positions, and rewards within Ledger Live.

11. Staking and Earning Rewards

Ledger Live Desktop supports staking across multiple cryptocurrencies:

• Select a blockchain and validator for staking.
• Confirm staking transactions on your Ledger device.
• Earn rewards while retaining full control of your assets.

Supported networks include Ethereum, Tezos, Cardano, Solana, and more.

12. Security Best Practices

Ledger emphasizes security through both hardware and user practices:

• Purchase devices only from official Ledger sources.
• Never share your 24-word recovery phrase or PIN.
• Verify all transactions on the device screen.
• Keep Ledger Live and firmware up to date.
• Use a passphrase for additional protection.
• Disconnect from dApps or exchanges when not in use.

13. Wallet Backup and Recovery

If your Ledger device is lost or damaged, the 24-word recovery phrase allows wallet restoration:

1. Obtain a new Ledger device.
2. Select “Restore device from recovery phrase.”
3. Enter the 24-word phrase in order.
4. Set a new PIN for the restored wallet.

Store recovery phrases offline in a secure location.

14. Web3 Integration

Ledger Live Desktop integrates securely with Web3 applications using WalletConnect and browser extensions:

• Interact with decentralized applications safely.
• Sign blockchain transactions on your Ledger device.
• Access DeFi, NFTs, and staking while keeping private keys offline.

15. Troubleshooting and Support

Common issues include:

• Device not recognized: Ensure USB or Bluetooth connections are secure and Ledger Live is updated.
• Transaction errors: Verify the correct blockchain network and confirm on the Ledger device.
• Firmware update issues: Restart Ledger Live Desktop and the device, then retry the update.

Visit the Ledger Support Center for additional guidance and troubleshooting tips.

16. Future-Proofing Your Ledger Setup

Ledger continually updates Ledger Live to support new cryptocurrencies, NFTs, DeFi protocols, and Web3 applications. Using Ledger Live Desktop ensures:

• Full control over private keys and crypto assets.
• Secure access to emerging blockchain opportunities.
• Protection against phishing, malware, and online attacks.

Conclusion

Ledger Live: Desktop — Getting™ Started provides a complete, secure solution for managing cryptocurrencies, NFTs, DeFi, staking, and Web3 interactions. By combining Ledger hardware wallets with Ledger Live Desktop, you maintain full control over your digital assets while minimizing risks. Protect your recovery phrase, follow security best practices, and begin your secure crypto journey today.

Get started safely with Ledger Live Desktop at Ledger.com/ledger-live.