Official Site® | ledger live desktop®

1. Download & Verify Ledger Live Desktop

Visit the official Ledger site (ledger.com) and go to the Ledger Live download page. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
Choose your OS (Windows/macOS/Linux) and download the appropriate installer or AppImage. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
Verify the installer’s signature or checksum via Ledger’s “Ledger Live Download Signatures” resource. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
Install/run the application (or mark AppImage executable on Linux). :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
Launch Ledger Live Desktop.

Warning: Fake Ledger Live apps (especially on macOS) have circulated—always download from ledger.com. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}

2. Initial Device Association & Setup

Click **Get Started** in the Ledger Live welcome screen. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
Select your Ledger hardware model and connect it via USB/Bluetooth.
Choose “Set up as new device” (unless restoring). :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
On device: set a PIN and write down the 24-word recovery phrase manually, offline.
Confirm a few words back in Ledger Live to validate your backup.
Once confirmed, the device is ready to use.

3. Install Blockchain Apps & Add Crypto Accounts

Open the **Manager** tab in Ledger Live and install the apps you need (BTC, ETH, etc.).
Go to **Accounts → Add account** and select the desired coin.
Open the corresponding app on your Ledger device when prompted.
Ledger Live detects your account and displays balance and history.
You may add multiple accounts or subaccounts if supported.

4. Receive, Send & Manage Crypto

Receive: Click Receive in a given account; confirm the address on your hardware before sharing.
Send: Fill recipient, amount, review, then approve on the device.
Verify via a block explorer to confirm transaction success.
Use features like swap or staking safely via Ledger Live while keys remain offline.

5. Firmware Updates & Ongoing Maintenance

Keep Ledger Live Desktop up to date.
When prompted to update device firmware, do so only through Ledger Live’s verified process.
Always back up your recovery phrase before firmware upgrades.
Use the “Genuine Check” to validate device authenticity.
Disconnect your device when not in immediate use to reduce risk exposure.

Best Practices for Cold Storage & Long-Term Security

Store your recovery phrase in fireproof, theft-resistant media (e.g. steel backup).
Consider splitting backup or geographic separation for high value holdings.
Optionally use a passphrase (extra layer) but store it carefully—loss means loss of funds.
Never enter your seed phrase into any software, phone, or website.
Test small transfers first to confirm everything works properly.
Purchase hardware only from trusted, authorized sources.
For large holdings, consider multisignature or redundant device setups.
Periodically test recovery in safe, offline conditions to confirm your backup works.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1. Does Ledger Live Desktop require an email/password login?

No — there is no email/password-based login. Ledger Live communicates with your hardware device and the blockchain; your keys remain offline on your Ledger device.

Q2. Can I manage multiple cryptocurrencies with Ledger Live Desktop?

Yes — you install blockchain-specific apps on the hardware and then add accounts via Ledger Live for each crypto you want to manage.

Q3. If I lose my Ledger device, can I still recover my funds?

Yes — if you safely stored your 24-word recovery phrase. That phrase lets you restore your wallet (and funds) on another compatible device.

Q4. Is Ledger Live Desktop considered cold storage or hot wallet?

Ledger’s architecture is cold storage: keys never leave the hardware device. Ledger Live Desktop is simply a management interface.

Q5. Are there scams or risks to watch out for with Ledger Live Desktop?

Yes. Fake installers or spoofed Ledger Live apps (especially targeting macOS) are circulating. Always download from the official site and verify signatures. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}

Q6. What should I test immediately after setup?

After setup, install key apps (BTC, ETH), add accounts, and perform small test receive and send operations to confirm everything works before transferring large funds.