Ledger Live Desktop® — Secure Crypto Management Platform®

Comprehensive 2,500-word landing page guide covering Ledger Live Desktop installation, device setup, recovery phrase backup, accounts management, staking, firmware updates, security, troubleshooting, and official resources.

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Download Ledger Live Desktop

Ledger Live Desktop is the official application for managing Ledger devices. Always download from the official site: ledger.com/start. Verify installer checksums for security.

  1. Open official Ledger start page.
  2. Select your operating system: Windows, macOS, or Linux.
  3. Install and open Ledger Live Desktop, create a local profile.

Device Setup

  1. Connect your Ledger device using the original USB cable.
  2. Follow prompts to set PIN and create a wallet.
  3. Write down the recovery phrase exactly as shown (24 words typical).
  4. Confirm backup in Ledger Live Desktop.
Never enter recovery phrase into a computer or online.

Recovery Phrase

  • Write offline in multiple secure locations.
  • Metal backups recommended for durability.
  • Do not store digitally (cloud, photos, password managers).
  • Create new wallet if phrase is exposed.

Ledger Manager

  • Install blockchain apps for cryptocurrencies.
  • Add accounts to view balances and transactions.
  • Removing apps does not affect funds.

Staking

  1. Add supported account.
  2. Select validator.
  3. Confirm staking transaction on device.

Understand protocol risks, slashing, and lock-up conditions.

Firmware Updates

  1. Ledger Live Desktop notifies you of updates.
  2. Confirm signature before updating.
  3. Do not disconnect; follow recovery if update fails.

Security Best Practices

  • Purchase devices from official sources only.
  • Never share recovery phrase or PIN.
  • Verify addresses and transactions on-device.
  • Consider passphrase for extra security.
  • Use multisig for large holdings.

Troubleshooting

Device not detected

Try different USB ports, cables, or restart Ledger Live Desktop.

Firmware update failure

Reconnect device and follow recovery prompts; contact support if needed.

Lost recovery phrase

If device access exists, create new wallet and transfer funds; otherwise funds are lost.

FAQ

Can I use Ledger with MetaMask?

Yes — Ledger integrates with MetaMask for transaction signing with keys kept on-device.

Does Ledger support NFTs?

Many blockchains are supported; interaction may require third-party wallets.

Device stolen?

If recovery phrase and PIN are safe, theft alone does not grant access; move funds if compromised.