Ledger Live Desktop

Ledger Live Desktop — Getting Started | Official Ledger Wallet Guide

Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application designed to securely manage your Ledger hardware wallet and all your cryptocurrency assets. Whether you’re a new crypto user or an experienced investor, Ledger Live gives you full control over coins, tokens, NFTs, and staking — all while keeping your private keys offline on your Ledger device. ([ledger-com-about.framer.ai][1])

What Is Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop is the secure software hub for managing your Ledger hardware wallet (such as Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, and newer models). The desktop app is available on Windows, macOS, and Linux, and connects directly to your Ledger device via USB. It allows you to:

Track your entire crypto portfolio in real time
Send and receive cryptocurrencies
Buy, swap, stake, and earn rewards
Manage NFTs and use Web3 apps
Update device firmware and install blockchain-specific apps
Add multiple asset accounts in one place All operations require confirmation directly on the physical Ledger device so your private keys never touch your computer or the internet. ([ledger-com-about.framer.ai][1])

This combination of offline key storage and on-screen review makes Ledger Live one of the most secure ways to manage crypto today.

Why Use Ledger Live Desktop?

1. Security First

Ledger Live Desktop ensures that your private keys stay within your Ledger device — never on your computer or in the cloud. Every transaction must be approved on the hardware device’s screen, protecting you from malware and phishing attacks. ([guide-live--desktop-en.pages.dev][2])

2. Unified Portfolio Management

The dashboard provides a unified view of your entire crypto portfolio. You can see your asset distribution, real-time price updates, and historical performance charts — all within a single interface. ([liveledegr-desktop.pages.dev][3])

3. Multi-Asset and Multi-Account Support

Ledger Live supports thousands of cryptocurrencies across dozens of blockchains. You can add many accounts (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Cardano, and more), all tracked from the same desktop app. ([liveledegr-desktop.pages.dev][3])

4. Advanced Features

Ledger Live goes beyond basic wallet functionality:

Buy & Swap: Purchase crypto with fiat and swap between coins directly in the app. ([Ledger Live Desktop Getting Started][4])
Staking & Rewards: Delegate assets like ETH, SOL, or ATOM to earn staking rewards. ([Ledger Live Desktop Getting Started][4])
NFT Management: View, send, and receive supported NFTs securely. ([liveledegr-desktop.pages.dev][3])
App & Firmware Management: Install blockchain apps and keep device firmware up to date. ([guide-live--desktop-en.pages.dev][2])

These features make Ledger Live Desktop a powerful tool for both beginners and advanced crypto users.

System Requirements

Before you install Ledger Live Desktop, make sure your system meets these requirements:

Windows: Windows 10 or higher
macOS: macOS 12 (Monterey) or later
Linux: Ubuntu 20.04 or compatible distribution
Connection: USB cable (Bluetooth only applies to mobile for Ledger Nano X) Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website to avoid phishing scams and fake installers. ([liveledegr-desktop.pages.dev][3])

Step-by-Step — Getting Started with Ledger Live Desktop

1. Download & Install the App

Go to the official Ledger Live download page on Ledger’s website and choose the installer for your operating system. After the download completes:

Run the installer
Follow on-screen prompts
Launch Ledger Live when it’s finished Make sure you’re downloading from the official Ledger domain to avoid risk. ([ledger-com-about.framer.ai][1])

2. Connect Your Ledger Device

Use the USB cable included with your Ledger hardware device to connect it to your computer. Ledger Live should recognize your device automatically. Once connected:

Click “Get Started”
Choose whether you’re setting up a new device or restoring an existing one from a recovery phrase This step prepares you for secure onboarding. ([liveledegr-desktop.pages.dev][3])

3. Initialize Your Ledger Wallet

On the Ledger device itself:

Create a secure PIN
Write down your 24-word recovery phrase exactly as shown This recovery phrase is your only backup in case the device is lost or damaged. Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase inside Ledger Live or by email — if anyone asks, it’s a scam. ([ledger-com-about.framer.ai][1])

4. Install Blockchain Apps

In Ledger Live:

Open the Manager tab
Install apps for the coins you want (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana) Each app allows your Ledger device to derive addresses and sign transactions for a specific blockchain. ([live-en-desktop.pages.dev][5])

5. Add Accounts

Once the apps are installed:

Go to the Accounts section
Add accounts for the cryptocurrencies you plan to manage You can add multiple accounts for the same asset if you want separate wallets. ([livelgr-learn.pages.dev][6])

6. Send & Receive Crypto

To receive funds:

Select the account
Click Receive
Verify the address on your Ledger device — always check the address on-screen to avoid malware intercepts
Share the verified address

To send funds:

Click Send
Enter the destination address and amount
Confirm transaction details on your Ledger device Because the device handles all signing, your private keys remain safe offline. ([Ledledgerwallet][7])

Security Best Practices

Security is the cornerstone of Ledger Live Desktop. Always:

Download the app from the official Ledger site
Never share your 24-word recovery phrase
Verify transaction details on the Ledger device screen
Keep Ledger Live and firmware updated

These habits protect your crypto from phishing and malware threats common in the crypto ecosystem. ([ledger-com-about.framer.ai][1])

Conclusion

Ledger Live Desktop is a secure, feature-rich application for managing your Ledger hardware wallet and all associated crypto assets. From basic portfolio tracking to advanced features like staking and NFT management, it provides a user-friendly yet secure way to interact with your digital assets — with your private keys stored safely offline. Starting is as simple as downloading the official app, connecting your Ledger device, and following the guided setup.