Ledger Live®® Desktop — Getting Started | Official Ledger Wallet
The official desktop application for securely managing your Ledger hardware wallet and cryptocurrency assets.
What Is Ledger Live Desktop?
Ledger Live Desktop is the official application designed to manage your Ledger hardware wallet on Windows, macOS, or Linux. It allows users to securely send, receive, and track cryptocurrencies while keeping private keys offline and protected.
Ledger Live Desktop is the preferred version for initial setup due to its enhanced security, full functionality, and ability to handle firmware updates safely.
Key Features of Ledger Live Desktop
- Secure Wallet Management: Connect your Ledger device to send and receive cryptocurrencies safely.
- Multi-Currency Support: Manage multiple accounts and hundreds of supported coins and tokens.
- Portfolio Overview: Real-time balance updates and portfolio tracking for all assets.
- Device Firmware Updates: Update your Ledger device securely to access new features and security improvements.
- App Management: Install or uninstall cryptocurrency apps directly on your device.
- Buy, Swap, and Stake: Integrated with trusted third-party partners for purchasing crypto, swapping assets, and staking supported coins.
Setting Up Ledger Live Desktop
- Download Ledger Live Desktop from the official Ledger website.
- Install the application on your Windows, macOS, or Linux system.
- Connect your Ledger hardware wallet via USB.
- Set up your device or restore an existing wallet using your recovery phrase.
- Follow on-screen instructions to add accounts and install apps for supported cryptocurrencies.
Security Features
Ledger Live Desktop is built for security-first cryptocurrency management. Key security features include:
- Offline Private Key Storage: Private keys never leave your Ledger device.
- PIN Protection: Prevents unauthorized access to your device.
- Optional Passphrase: Adds hidden wallets for extra security.
- Physical Transaction Confirmation: All transactions must be approved on the device itself.
- Secure Communication: All interactions between Ledger Live Desktop and your device are encrypted.
Why Choose Ledger Live Desktop?
- Complete control over your private keys (non-custodial access)
- Enhanced security compared to web or mobile wallets
- Supports multi-asset management in a single interface
- Integration with DeFi and Web3 applications while keeping assets secure
- Reliable platform for long-term portfolio tracking and crypto management
Tips for Safe Usage
- Download Ledger Live Desktop only from the official Ledger website.
- Always back up your recovery phrase offline.
- Verify transaction details on your device screen before confirming.
- Keep Ledger Live Desktop and device firmware up to date.
- Use Ledger Live Desktop on secure, private networks to prevent unauthorized access.
Desktop vs Mobile Ledger Live
Ledger Live Desktop provides more advanced features and is recommended for initial setup and firmware updates. While mobile Ledger Live allows on-the-go access via Bluetooth (Ledger Nano X), desktop versions offer:
- Full app management
- Firmware updates
- Detailed portfolio analysis
- Enhanced security with offline setup capabilities
Conclusion
Ledger Live Desktop is the safest, most feature-rich platform for managing your Ledger hardware wallet and cryptocurrency portfolio. With its combination of security, multi-asset support, and user-friendly interface, Ledger Live Desktop ensures that you can control your digital assets confidently and efficiently.
Start managing your cryptocurrencies securely today with Ledger Live Desktop.