Ledger® Live: Desktop® — Getting Started | official Ledger …
Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application designed to manage Ledger hardware wallets securely on Windows, macOS, and Linux systems. It provides a powerful, user-friendly interface that allows users to buy, sell, send, receive, and manage cryptocurrency while keeping private keys safely offline on a Ledger hardware device.
For users who prefer managing their crypto on a computer rather than a mobile phone, Ledger Live Desktop delivers advanced control, visibility, and security.
What Is Ledger Live Desktop?
Ledger Live Desktop is the computer-based version of Ledger Live, developed specifically for desktop operating systems. It connects directly to Ledger hardware wallets such as the Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X, serving as a secure bridge between your device and the blockchain.
All sensitive operations—including transaction signing—are performed on the Ledger hardware wallet, not on your computer.
Why Choose Ledger Live Desktop?
Ledger Live Desktop is ideal for users who want a larger screen, deeper control, and enhanced visibility of their crypto portfolio.
Key Advantages:
- Official software from Ledger
- Offline private key storage
- Hardware-level transaction confirmation
- Large-screen portfolio overview
- Advanced account and asset management
- Regular updates and security improvements
It combines convenience with industry-leading security.
Core Features of Ledger Live Desktop
Portfolio Dashboard
View your total portfolio value, individual asset balances, and transaction history in one clean interface.
Send and Receive Cryptocurrency
Easily send and receive crypto assets with on-device address verification to prevent mistakes or attacks.
Buy, Sell, and Swap Crypto
Ledger Live Desktop integrates trusted third-party providers that allow users to buy, sell, and swap cryptocurrencies directly within the app while maintaining hardware wallet security.
App and Account Management
Install, update, or remove cryptocurrency apps on your Ledger device and manage multiple accounts effortlessly.
Firmware Updates
Keep your Ledger device secure by installing the latest firmware updates through Ledger Live Desktop.
NFT Support
View and manage NFTs on supported networks directly from the desktop app.
Supported Operating Systems
Ledger Live Desktop is available for:
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
This ensures compatibility with most personal computers worldwide.
Supported Cryptocurrencies
Ledger Live Desktop supports thousands of digital assets, including:
- Bitcoin (BTC)
- Ethereum (ETH)
- Solana (SOL)
- Cardano (ADA)
- XRP
- Litecoin (LTC)
- Polygon (MATIC)
- ERC-20 and other tokens
New assets are added regularly through updates.
How to Get Started with Ledger Live Desktop
Step 1: Download the Application
Download Ledger Live Desktop only from the official Ledger website to avoid fake or malicious software.
Step 2: Install on Your Computer
Follow the installation instructions for your operating system.
Step 3: Connect Your Ledger Device
Use a USB cable (or Bluetooth for supported devices) to connect your Ledger hardware wallet.
Step 4: Set Up or Restore Wallet
Create a new wallet or restore an existing one using your recovery phrase.
Step 5: Start Managing Your Assets
Once logged in, you can securely manage your crypto portfolio.
Ledger Live Desktop vs Mobile App
| Feature | Desktop | Mobile |
|---|---|---|
| Screen size | Large | Small |
| Advanced management | Yes | Limited |
| USB connection | Yes | Limited |
| Bluetooth support | Yes | Yes |
| Best for beginners | Yes | Yes |
Both versions maintain the same security standards.
Security Best Practices for Ledger Live Desktop
- Never share your recovery phrase
- Store recovery phrase offline only
- Verify addresses on the device screen
- Keep Ledger Live Desktop updated
- Avoid unofficial downloads or links
These practices ensure your assets remain protected.
Common Ledger Live Desktop Issues & Fixes
Device not detected
– Try a different USB cable or port
– Restart the application
– Update device firmware
Application won’t open
– Reinstall latest version
– Check OS compatibility
Transaction not syncing
– Refresh account
– Check network status
Who Should Use Ledger Live Desktop?
Ledger Live Desktop is ideal for:
- Long-term crypto investors
- Users managing large portfolios
- People leaving centralized exchanges
- NFT collectors
- Anyone who prefers desktop-based control
If you want detailed portfolio management with strong security, Ledger Live Desktop is a great choice.
FAQs – Ledger Live Desktop
Is Ledger Live Desktop free?
Yes. Ledger Live Desktop is free to use. You only pay for the Ledger hardware wallet.
Is Ledger Live Desktop safe?
Yes. It is official software from Ledger and uses hardware-level security.
Can I use Ledger Live Desktop without a Ledger device?
No. A Ledger hardware wallet is required.
Does Ledger Live Desktop store private keys?
No. Private keys are stored securely on the Ledger device, never on the computer.
Can I use Ledger Live Desktop on multiple computers?
Yes. You can install it on multiple computers and access your wallet using your Ledger device.
What happens if my computer is hacked?
Your crypto remains safe because private keys stay on the Ledger device.
Final Thoughts
Ledger Live Desktop offers a powerful, secure, and user-friendly way to manage cryptocurrency on your computer. By combining a large-screen interface with hardware-based security, it provides confidence and control for both beginners and advanced users.