> ## Documentation Index > Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://started-live.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 viewing cryptocurrency balances, organizing accounts, checking transaction records, and following portfolio performance. ![Live Ldrer](https://mintcdn.com/started-live/rAwDRzOYLHG_jjcy/images/live-ldrer.png?fit=max\&auto=format\&n=rAwDRzOYLHG_jjcy\&q=85\&s=2c9a582740c4ac3f7283f43fb8f13437) # Ledger Live Desktop: Understanding Portfolio Tracking and Secure Account Management Managing several cryptocurrency accounts can become complicated without a clear system. Ledger Live Desktop offers a desktop interface for viewing supported accounts, checking portfolio information, and preparing compatible wallet operations with a Ledger hardware wallet. For users who want a more organized way to review their digital assets, learning the basic features of Ledger Live Desktop is a useful starting point. The application provides account-management tools, while the connected hardware wallet protects the private keys required to authorize supported transactions. ## Preparing Your Computer for Ledger Live Desktop A secure desktop environment is an important part of wallet management. Before installing Ledger Live Desktop, check the compatibility requirements for your operating system and hardware wallet model. Begin by visiting [Ledger.com/start](http://Ledger.com/start) directly in your browser. Follow the official setup guidance and use the software sources provided there. Avoid downloading applications from unfamiliar websites or links shared through unsolicited messages. It is also sensible to prepare your computer before installation. Install operating-system updates, use a reliable security solution, and close unnecessary applications. These basic steps help create a more dependable environment for managing crypto accounts. ## Learning How Ledger Live Desktop Works Ledger Live Desktop serves as an interface between the user and supported blockchain services. It can display account information and help prepare certain operations, while the physical hardware wallet is used to review and authorize supported transactions. This distinction is important. The application does not replace the hardware wallet's security role. Private keys remain protected by the device, and transaction approval should be performed only after checking the details presented on its screen. Spend some time exploring the main application areas. Become familiar with account information, portfolio displays, transaction history, and the available settings. Knowing where to find these features can make routine account reviews more straightforward. ## Making Portfolio Information Easier to Understand A portfolio may include different cryptocurrencies, tokens, and blockchain networks. Ledger Live Desktop can present supported account information in a centralized interface, making it easier to review available balances and activity. However, a displayed portfolio value should be understood as an estimate rather than a guaranteed sale price. Market prices fluctuate, and different services may use different price feeds or update schedules. For clearer portfolio reviews, consider checking: * Which accounts contain each supported asset. * Whether the asset is associated with the expected network. * Recent incoming and outgoing transactions. * Changes in displayed balances. * Whether a transaction is pending or confirmed, where that information is available. Regular reviews can help you understand account activity without relying entirely on a single portfolio figure. ## Understanding Networks and Asset Compatibility One common source of confusion in crypto management is the difference between an asset and its blockchain network. A token may be available on more than one network, but that does not mean every receiving platform supports every version. Before receiving or transferring an asset, confirm that the sending and receiving services support the same network. Check the address format and any additional instructions required by the receiving platform. Ledger Live Desktop supports specific assets and services, and availability can vary. Do not assume that every token or blockchain is supported simply because it appears in another wallet application. A careful compatibility check can help prevent transfers to an unsupported destination. ## Creating a Safer Transaction Review Process When preparing a transaction through Ledger Live Desktop, avoid approving requests automatically. Read the available details and compare them with the information you intended to enter. The physical hardware wallet provides an additional opportunity to verify supported transaction details. Check the recipient address, amount, network information, and any other information shown on the device before confirming. If an address is unfamiliar, the amount is incorrect, or the device displays unexpected information, stop and investigate. Do not rely solely on the information displayed on your computer screen. Because many blockchain transactions cannot be reversed, careful review should be part of every transfer. ## Protecting Wallet Access and Recovery Information Your hardware wallet PIN helps control access to the physical device. Your recovery phrase serves a different purpose: it can restore access to the wallet if the device becomes unavailable. Keep the recovery phrase private and offline. Store it somewhere secure and protected from damage, unauthorized access, and accidental loss. Never enter the recovery phrase into Ledger Live Desktop or any other computer application. Do not provide it to websites, support representatives, online forms, or people offering recovery assistance. A person who obtains the phrase may gain control over the associated assets. If you need to replace or restore a device, follow the official instructions for your model. Never use a recovery phrase supplied by another person. ## Maintaining a Reliable Desktop Setup A dependable Ledger Live Desktop setup requires more than installing the application once. Check for genuine software updates, keep your computer protected, and use compatible connection equipment. If the application fails to connect, try a known data-capable USB cable, another supported port, or a restart of the application. Confirm that your operating system and hardware wallet are compatible with the current software requirements. For persistent problems, consult official support documentation instead of installing unofficial repair programs or granting remote access to unknown individuals. ## Making Ledger Live Desktop Part of Your Routine A consistent approach can make crypto account management easier to understand. Review account activity periodically, keep supported software updated, and verify important transaction information on your physical device. Ledger Live Desktop provides useful tools for viewing and managing supported accounts, but security also depends on protecting recovery information and making careful decisions. By combining organized portfolio reviews with cautious transaction approval and reliable software practices, you can use Ledger Live Desktop as part of a more structured approach to managing your crypto assets. This documentation is built and hosted on [Mintlify](https://mintlify.com), a developer documentation platform.