Learn how to manage your cryptocurrency securely using Ledger Live Desktop with Ledger hardware wallets, including setup, best practices, and troubleshooting tips.
Why use Ledger Live Desktop for secure management?
Ledger Live Desktop is the official application for managing Ledger hardware wallets on Windows, macOS, and Linux. It provides a secure interface to view balances, send and receive cryptocurrencies, install apps, and track portfolio performance without exposing private keys. Combining Ledger Live Desktop with your Ledger hardware wallet ensures your funds remain safe from online threats.
Getting started with Ledger Live Desktop
Download the official Ledger Live Desktop app from ledger.com/ledger-live/download. Avoid unofficial sources to prevent malware.
Install the application on your computer and follow the on-screen setup instructions.
Connect your Ledger hardware wallet via USB and unlock it using your PIN code.
Verify device authenticity — Ledger devices display a security check message during the first connection to ensure the firmware is genuine.
Adding accounts in Ledger Live Desktop
Ledger Live Desktop supports multiple cryptocurrencies and allows adding accounts securely:
Open Ledger Live and navigate to Accounts > Add Account.
Select the cryptocurrency and click Continue.
Ledger Live will sync your Ledger device and generate account addresses without exposing private keys to your computer.
Repeat for additional cryptocurrencies supported by Ledger.
Sending and receiving cryptocurrency securely
All transactions are signed on the Ledger hardware device, keeping private keys offline:
Click Send or Receive in Ledger Live Desktop.
Enter recipient address and transaction amount.
Confirm details on your Ledger device. Only approve if all transaction details match your intent.
Ledger Live will broadcast the transaction after hardware confirmation.
Keeping Ledger Live Desktop secure
Keep Ledger Live Desktop and your device firmware updated.
Use a strong computer password and enable disk encryption if available.
Never share your 24-word recovery phrase — Ledger Live never asks for it.
Disconnect hardware wallets when not in use.
Use antivirus and anti-malware tools to reduce exposure to potential threats.
Troubleshooting common issues
Ledger Live Desktop does not detect device
Check your USB connection, ensure Ledger Live is updated, try a different cable or USB port, and ensure your device is unlocked with PIN.
Firmware update failed
Ensure your device is sufficiently charged, disable antivirus temporarily if it blocks the update, and reconnect the device.
Accounts not showing balances
Verify network connectivity, ensure Ledger Live Desktop is synchronized, and confirm the cryptocurrency is supported. Resync accounts if needed.
Advanced features in Ledger Live Desktop
Portfolio tracking: See the real-time value of all your crypto holdings.
App management: Install or remove cryptocurrency apps on your Ledger device securely.
Staking: Stake supported coins directly from Ledger Live Desktop while keeping keys offline.
Swap & exchange: Swap tokens via integrated partners without exposing private keys.