Ledger Live Desktop® — Getting Started | Official Ledger Wallet
If you’re serious about managing your cryptocurrency securely, the Ledger Live Desktop application is an essential tool. Developed by Ledger, Ledger Live Desktop provides a robust, offline-first interface for interacting with your Ledger hardware wallet, such as the Nano X or Nano S Plus, on your computer.
Unlike mobile apps or web wallets, the desktop version ensures a stable environment with full functionality, making it ideal for both beginners and advanced users managing multiple crypto assets.
Key Features of Ledger Live Desktop
- Full Portfolio Overview
Ledger Live Desktop allows you to view all your cryptocurrency holdings in one place. You can track balances, recent transactions, and overall portfolio performance across multiple accounts. - Send and Receive Crypto Securely
Transactions initiated on Ledger Live Desktop must be confirmed on your Ledger hardware device. This ensures your private keys remain offline, safeguarding your assets from malware or phishing attacks. - App and Account Management
Through Ledger Live Desktop, you can install apps for supported cryptocurrencies directly on your Ledger device. Each app allows the management of a specific coin, like Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Polkadot, without exposing private keys. - Secure Firmware Updates
Ledger regularly releases firmware updates to improve security and add new features. Ledger Live Desktop simplifies the process, guiding users safely through updates while keeping private keys secure. - Advanced Features
Ledger Live Desktop also supports advanced tools such as crypto staking, portfolio analytics, and the ability to connect with third-party decentralized finance (DeFi) apps—all while maintaining the security of your hardware wallet.
How Ledger Live Desktop Works
Ledger Live Desktop acts as a secure bridge between your computer and your Ledger device. While it provides an intuitive interface for managing your assets, all sensitive operations—like signing transactions—are performed directly on your hardware wallet. This ensures that private keys never leave the device, maintaining the highest level of security.
The application is compatible with:
- Windows – full support for Ledger devices with USB connection
- macOS – optimized for desktop performance and security
- Linux – ideal for users seeking a lightweight, secure crypto management setup
Setting Up Ledger Live Desktop
- Download the Official App
Always download Ledger Live Desktop from Ledger.com/start to avoid phishing attempts or malicious software. - Install and Launch
Follow the installation instructions for your operating system and launch the application. - Connect Your Ledger Device
Plug in your Ledger Nano S Plus or Nano X and unlock it using your PIN. Ledger Live Desktop will automatically detect your device. - Install Cryptocurrency Apps
Select and install apps for the coins you want to manage. Ledger Live Desktop ensures all installations happen securely on the device. - Add Accounts
Add accounts to monitor balances, track transactions, and manage your portfolio.
Security Best Practices
- Always verify receiving addresses directly on your Ledger device.
- Never enter your 24-word recovery phrase in any software or website.
- Keep Ledger Live Desktop updated to the latest version.
- Download the software only from the official Ledger website.
Why Choose Ledger Live Desktop
Ledger Live Desktop combines usability and security, making it the preferred tool for users who want complete control over their digital assets. Unlike mobile apps, it provides a larger interface for portfolio management, seamless app installation, and easy access to advanced features, all while keeping your private keys safe.
Final Thoughts
For anyone serious about cryptocurrency security, Ledger Live Desktop is more than just a wallet interface—it’s a full-featured management system that complements your Ledger hardware wallet. By combining Ledger Live Desktop with your device, you gain a powerful, secure, and reliable way to monitor, transact, and manage crypto assets with confidence.