Welcome to the definitive guide covering Ledger Live Desktop®, the flagship wallet application from Ledger. In this document, we explore its features, setup, navigation, security, advanced usage, and practical tips. Whether you are new to hardware wallets or an experienced user, this guide gives you clarity in fresh words, with a structured layout and colorful presentation.
Ledger Live Desktop® is a desktop application (for Windows, macOS, Linux) that allows users to manage their cryptocurrency portfolios in a secure, user‑friendly environment. It interfaces with Ledger hardware wallets to sign transactions, view balances, install apps, and more.
Before installing Ledger Live Desktop®, ensure your system meets minimal requirements: a modern OS version (for example Windows 10 or newer, macOS 10.14+, or a recent Linux distro), at least 4 GB RAM, and stable internet connectivity.
1. Download the installer from the official Ledger website.
2. Run the installer and follow prompts to install.
3. On first launch, choose whether to create a new wallet profile or restore from an existing seed.
4. Connect your Ledger hardware device and follow the on‑screen pairing flow.
When you start for the first time, Ledger Live Desktop® will ask you to name your profile and set a password. This password is local only — never reveals your seed phrase.
If you already have an existing seed phrase (24 words), choose “Restore a wallet,” input your words in correct order, and confirm. Ledger Live will rescan your accounts and balances.
The Dashboard shows a consolidated view of your assets — balances in multiple currencies, distribution charts, and performance graphs. You can sort by value, asset type, or time horizon.
Under the "Accounts" section you’ll see each crypto account linked to your Ledger device. Clicking an account reveals recent transactions, receive/send buttons, and operations history.
To receive, choose an account, hit “Receive,” and verify the address on your device. To send, input recipient address, amount, fees, and confirm on your hardware wallet.
Ledger Live Desktop® has an “App Catalog” to install blockchain‑specific apps (e.g. Ethereum, Bitcoin, Polkadot) onto your device. You can also uninstall apps to free space.
Never type your seed phrase into any computer. Store it offline, on paper or metal. Use passphrases or hidden accounts if you want extra layers of defense.
Always update your Ledger hardware firmware via official Ledger Live Desktop®. Validate new firmware by comparing screen hashes and using official sources. Firmware updates often patch security vulnerabilities.
Be cautious of fake Ledger Live clones or phishing sites. Always confirm the URL, verify checksums, and never share your recovery phrase with anyone.
Choose a strong PIN for your Ledger device, not trivial sequences. Also consider enabling the “Auto‑lock” setting to require re‑entry after idle periods.
Ledger Live Desktop® supports staking and delegation for compatible blockchains (e.g. Tezos, Cosmos). You can earn passive yield by delegating your tokens via the interface.
You may add custom ERC‑20/ERC‑721 tokens by entering contract addresses. After adding, they show up in your portfolio and can be transacted like other assets.
If you hold multiple accounts on the same network, Ledger Live allows internal transfers between them with lower or zero network fees.
Use built‑in charts and export CSV or PDF reports for tax or audit purposes. The performance tab shows changes over time and asset contributions.