Ledger Live Desktop® | Official Setup Guide®

Introduction

Welcome to this official setup guide for **Ledger Live Desktop®**. In this guide, you will find step‑by‑step instructions to install, configure, and safely use Ledger Live on your computer. We will also cover common pitfalls, tips, and best practices so you can confidently manage your crypto assets.

Ledger Live Desktop® is a native application designed to work with Ledger hardware wallets. It provides a graphical interface to manage accounts, send and receive coins, and perform firmware updates. Let's walk you through the full process.

System Requirements & Prerequisites

Before installing, ensure your system meets these minimum requirements:

Why these requirements matter

Ledger Live communicates with the blockchain networks and downloads block headers or account data in the background. Insufficient memory or disk space can lead to performance lags or unexpected errors.

Installation Steps

1. Download the installer

Visit the official Ledger website (https://www.ledger.com) and navigate to the “Downloads” section. Choose the appropriate installer for your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux). Make sure you pick the version labeled **Ledger Live Desktop®**.

2. Run the installer

- On Windows: run the `.exe` file and follow the prompts.
- On macOS: open the `.dmg` and drag Ledger Live into the Applications folder.
- On Linux: unpack the `.AppImage` or `.tar.gz` and make the binary executable.

3. Launch Ledger Live

Once installed, open Ledger Live Desktop®. The app will prompt you to either “Set up a new device” or “Restore from existing seed.” Choose accordingly.

Initialize your hardware wallet

- Connect your Ledger hardware device via USB and unlock it (enter your PIN).
- If it’s brand new, factory settings will guide you to choose a new PIN and write your recovery phrase. This must be done securely and offline.

Restore from existing seed

- If you have a 24‑word recovery phrase, select “Restore device” and enter the words carefully in the correct order.
- Ledger Live will verify your seed and sync accounts.

Using Ledger Live Desktop®

Adding and managing accounts

After your device is set up, you can add accounts for various cryptocurrencies (e.g. Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Click “Add Account,” select the coin, and let Ledger Live scan the blockchain to detect balances.

Sending and receiving assets

Receive

Click on “Receive,” choose the account, and display the address on your hardware device. Always verify that the address on your screen matches the device display before sharing or using it.

Send

Click “Send,” enter the recipient address, the amount, and set an appropriate network fee. Confirm the transaction details on your hardware device before approving.

Firmware updates and security

Ledger Live periodically supports firmware upgrades for your hardware wallet. Always keep your firmware and app version up to date. Never share your recovery phrase or enter it into any software. Ledger Live will never ask for your full phrase in-app.

Settings and preferences

In the settings section, you can configure network options, swap integrations, language, and display modes. You may also enable “developer mode” if you are advanced user, but only if you know what you are doing.

Best Practices & Troubleshooting

Secure your recovery phrase

Your 24‑word recovery phrase is your ultimate backup. Store it offline, in a safe location (e.g. safe box). Never photograph or store it digitally.

Regular backups & verification

Occasionally verify that your hardware wallet and Ledger Live show consistent balances. Avoid uninstalling Ledger Live unless you have full backup.

Firewall & network settings

If Ledger Live cannot sync or connect, check firewall/antivirus settings. Whitelist the Ledger Live application and allow outbound connections on necessary ports.

Troubleshooting steps

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Ledger Live Desktop® free to use?

Yes, Ledger Live Desktop® is free software provided by Ledger. You can download and use it without subscription fees.

2. Can I install Ledger Live on multiple computers?

Yes. You may install Ledger Live on multiple computers (e.g. desktop, laptop). But your hardware wallet and recovery phrase remain the same. Ensure each machine is secure and trusted.

3. What happens if I lose my hardware device?

If your hardware device is lost, you can restore your wallet using the 24‑word recovery phrase on a new compatible device. Do not share your phrase with anyone.

4. Can Ledger Live support all cryptocurrencies?

Ledger Live supports many major cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Some coins require third‑party integrations. Always check the official “Supported assets” list on Ledger’s website.

5. What if I forget my PIN?

If you forget your PIN, you can reset the device and use your recovery phrase to restore accounts. However, any locally stored settings will be lost, so ensure you have your phrase securely backed up.