Ledger Live®® Desktop — Getting Started | Official Ledger Wallet
Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application designed to work seamlessly with Ledger hardware wallets, giving users a powerful and secure way to manage cryptocurrency directly from their computer. Built for Windows, macOS, and Linux, Ledger Live Desktop combines advanced asset management tools with industry-leading security, allowing users to control their digital assets with confidence.
Whether you are holding long-term investments, actively managing multiple accounts, or exploring staking and NFTs, Ledger Live Desktop provides everything you need in one secure interface.
What Is Ledger Live Desktop?
Ledger Live Desktop is the desktop version of the Ledger Live application that allows users to manage cryptocurrency accounts secured by a Ledger hardware wallet. Unlike browser-based or software-only wallets, Ledger Live Desktop does not store private keys on your computer. Instead, your private keys remain safely stored on your Ledger device, protected by a secure element chip and kept offline at all times.
The desktop app acts as a control center where users can view balances, send and receive crypto, install blockchain apps on their device, and manage their entire portfolio without compromising security.
Why Choose Ledger Live Desktop?
Advanced Security by Design
Security is the foundation of Ledger Live Desktop. Every sensitive action — including sending funds, installing apps, or approving smart contract interactions — requires physical confirmation on your Ledger device. This ensures that even if your computer is infected with malware, your assets remain safe.
Ledger Live Desktop uses end-to-end encryption for communication with your device and does not expose private keys to the internet, offering a significantly higher level of protection than software wallets.
Full Control on a Larger Screen
Ledger Live Desktop is ideal for users who prefer managing their crypto on a computer. The larger screen provides better visibility into:
- Portfolio performance and asset allocation
- Detailed transaction history
- Account management across multiple blockchains
- Market data and valuation tracking
This makes Ledger Live Desktop especially useful for advanced users, long-term investors, and those managing multiple crypto accounts.
Key Features of Ledger Live Desktop
Portfolio Overview
Ledger Live Desktop offers a clean and intuitive dashboard that displays your entire crypto portfolio in one place. You can monitor balances in real time, track value changes, and view performance across different assets and accounts.
Send and Receive Crypto Securely
With Ledger Live Desktop, sending and receiving crypto is simple and secure. The app prepares transactions, but final approval always happens on your Ledger hardware wallet. This ensures every transaction is verified by you before it is broadcast to the blockchain.
Install and Manage Crypto Apps
Ledger Live Desktop allows you to install and manage apps for different blockchains directly on your Ledger device. You can easily add support for new cryptocurrencies, remove unused apps, and update existing ones — all from a single interface.
Buy, Sell, Swap, and Stake
Ledger Live Desktop integrates with trusted service providers to offer additional functionality, including:
- Buying crypto using supported payment methods
- Selling crypto directly from your wallet
- Swapping between supported assets
- Staking certain cryptocurrencies to earn rewards
All these features are accessed without giving up custody of your private keys.
NFT and Web3 Support
Ledger Live Desktop supports NFT management on major blockchains. Users can view, receive, and send NFTs while keeping them protected by hardware-level security.
For Web3 users, Ledger Live Desktop enables safe interaction with decentralized applications by ensuring all transactions are verified on the Ledger device.
Supported Operating Systems
Ledger Live Desktop is available for:
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
This broad compatibility ensures users can manage their crypto securely regardless of their operating system.
How Ledger Live Desktop Works with Your Ledger Device
Using Ledger Live Desktop is straightforward:
- Download and install Ledger Live Desktop on your computer
- Connect your Ledger hardware wallet via USB
- Unlock your device using your PIN
- Add and manage crypto accounts
- Confirm transactions directly on the device
Your private keys never leave the hardware wallet, ensuring maximum security at every step.
Privacy and User Control
Ledger Live Desktop does not require users to create an account or provide personal information. You can use the app while maintaining privacy and full control over your data.
Users can also manage analytics preferences and choose how much information is shared, reinforcing Ledger’s commitment to transparency and user trust.
Keeping Ledger Live Desktop Secure
To ensure long-term security when using Ledger Live Desktop:
- Always download the app from official Ledger sources
- Verify transaction details on your Ledger device screen
- Keep Ledger Live Desktop and device firmware updated
- Store your 24-word recovery phrase securely offline
- Be cautious of phishing attempts and fake websites
Following these best practices helps protect your assets against both digital and physical threats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ledger Live Desktop free to use?
Yes. Ledger Live Desktop is free to download and use with a Ledger hardware wallet.
Can Ledger Live Desktop be used without a Ledger device?
No. Ledger Live Desktop requires a Ledger hardware wallet to function.
Does Ledger Live Desktop store private keys?
No. Private keys remain securely stored on the hardware wallet.
What happens if my computer is compromised?
Your crypto remains safe because transactions require physical confirmation on the Ledger device.
Who Should Use Ledger Live Desktop?
Ledger Live Desktop is ideal for:
- Users who prefer managing crypto on a computer
- Long-term investors who want detailed portfolio insights
- Advanced users managing multiple assets and accounts
- Anyone who values strong security and self-custody
Take Control with Ledger Live Desktop
Ledger Live Desktop offers a powerful combination of usability, privacy, and hardware-level security. By keeping your private keys offline and placing transaction approval in your hands, Ledger Live Desktop sets a high standard for safe crypto management.
Whether you’re sending crypto, tracking investments, or exploring new blockchain features, Ledger Live Desktop gives you the tools and confidence to manage your digital assets securely — right from your desktop.