> ## Documentation Index > Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://eng-ledgerapp.mintlify.site/llms.txt > Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further. # Ledger® Live: Desktop — Getting Started | official Ledger™ Discover Ledger Live Desktop features for monitoring asset activity, reviewing transactions, managing accounts, and understanding your crypto portfolio more clearly. ![Sssssssssssssss](https://mintcdn.com/eng-ledgerapp/vMk1MuiswtPh8N3t/images/sssssssssssssss.jpg?fit=max\&auto=format\&n=vMk1MuiswtPh8N3t\&q=85\&s=d5e72ddcfe8e38f4aca99c0fdc607c89) # Ledger Live Desktop: Build a Better Routine for Everyday Crypto Management Managing digital assets becomes easier when you have a clear process for checking balances, reviewing activity, and confirming transactions. **Ledger Live Desktop** provides a computer-based interface for users who manage supported crypto assets with a compatible Ledger hardware wallet. Instead of approaching every session as a new task, you can develop a consistent routine that keeps your activities organized. This guide explores how to use Ledger Live Desktop thoughtfully, prepare your computer, review account information, and maintain good security habits. ## Why Choose Ledger Live Desktop for Computer-Based Management? A desktop environment offers a larger screen and more room to review account details. With Ledger Live Desktop, users can access supported portfolio information and available account features through a computer. The application works alongside a compatible hardware wallet. The hardware wallet is responsible for protecting private keys, while the desktop interface helps users review information and prepare supported operations. This distinction matters. Your computer provides the interface, but sensitive transaction approvals should be checked directly on your physical Ledger device. ## Prepare Your Computer Before Opening Ledger Live Desktop A reliable setup begins before you connect your wallet. Make sure your operating system is supported and updated. Use a computer you control, avoid unfamiliar public devices, and install security updates when they become available. Download Ledger Live Desktop through Ledger's genuine official website. Be cautious of advertisements, unexpected download pages, imitation websites, and unsolicited messages offering installation assistance. After downloading the application, follow the displayed installation instructions. Avoid unofficial software packages or files sent through messaging platforms. ## Create a Consistent Account Review Routine Once Ledger Live Desktop is installed, open the application and follow its available setup instructions. Connect your compatible hardware wallet when requested and complete the device checks. After setup, take time to understand the account overview. Depending on the supported assets and device configuration, you may be able to review balances, account activity, and portfolio information. A useful review routine includes: * Checking whether displayed account information looks familiar. * Reviewing recent transactions for unexpected activity. * Confirming that the selected account matches your intended task. * Checking asset and network details before preparing a transaction. * Disconnecting the hardware wallet when you finish. Ledger Live Desktop can help organize these activities, but careful review remains your responsibility. ## Understand the Role of Your Hardware Wallet Your Ledger hardware wallet plays an important role in transaction security. Ledger Live Desktop may prepare a transaction, but the physical device is where you should independently inspect and approve the details. Before confirming an operation, compare the recipient address, amount, and network information shown on the device with the details you intended to use. Never approve a transaction simply because it appears in the desktop application. If the information on your hardware wallet does not match your expectations, stop and investigate. ## Keep Your Recovery Information Private Your Secret Recovery Phrase is extremely important. It can be used to restore access to the private keys associated with your wallet. Anyone who obtains it may be able to gain control of your assets. Write the phrase down during the device's genuine initialization process and keep it somewhere private and secure. Never enter it into Ledger Live Desktop, a website, an online form, or a support conversation. Your device PIN serves a different purpose: it helps protect access to the physical hardware wallet. Neither your PIN nor your recovery phrase should be shared with another person. ## What to Check When Ledger Live Desktop Has Problems If Ledger Live Desktop does not recognize your device, begin with basic checks rather than changing security settings. 1. Confirm that the hardware wallet is powered on and unlocked. 2. Check that the USB cable supports data transfer. 3. Try another USB port if the connection is unstable. 4. Close other applications that may be using the device. 5. Restart the application and check for available updates. 6. Consult official Ledger troubleshooting guidance if the problem continues. Avoid downloading unofficial repair utilities or following instructions that ask you to reveal recovery information. ## Make Ledger Live Desktop Part of a Safer Routine Good wallet management is built on consistent habits. Keep your computer updated, use genuine software, review account information carefully, and verify every important transaction on your hardware wallet. Ledger Live Desktop can provide a convenient computer-based way to manage supported crypto activities, but it should always be used with a clear understanding of the hardware wallet's security role. By combining an organized review process with careful transaction checks and private recovery information, you can make everyday crypto management more structured and confident. This documentation is built and hosted on [Mintlify](https://mintlify.com), a developer documentation platform.