What is Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop is the comprehensive software application that serves as the control center for your Ledger® hardware wallet. Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, this desktop application provides a secure interface to manage your cryptocurrency assets, execute transactions, and monitor your portfolio—all while your private keys remain protected on your hardware device.

Unlike web-based wallets, Ledger Live Desktop operates locally on your computer, reducing attack vectors and providing enhanced security for your crypto operations. The application synchronizes with blockchain networks to give you real-time information about your holdings while ensuring that your sensitive data never leaves your Ledger® device.

Key Features of Ledger Live Desktop

Portfolio Overview

Get a complete view of your cryptocurrency holdings with real-time price information and allocation charts.

Secure Transactions

Send and receive cryptocurrencies with the requirement of physical confirmation on your Ledger® device.

Built-in Exchange

Swap between supported cryptocurrencies directly within the application through partner services.

Staking Capabilities

Earn rewards by participating in staking programs for supported proof-of-stake cryptocurrencies.

App Management

Install, update, and remove cryptocurrency apps on your Ledger® device through the Manager section.

Multi-Account Support

Manage multiple accounts for each cryptocurrency and organize them with custom labels.

Downloading and Installing Ledger Live Desktop

1Visit the Official Website

Go to Ledger.com and navigate to the download section, or go directly to Ledger.com/ledger-live/download.

2Select Your Operating System

Choose the appropriate version for Windows, macOS, or Linux.

3Download the Installer

Click the download button and wait for the installation file to complete downloading.

4Run the Installer

Open the downloaded file and follow the installation instructions for your operating system.

5Launch Ledger Live

Open the application and follow the setup wizard to configure your device.

Security Tip: Always verify you're downloading from the official Ledger website to avoid malicious software. Bookmark the official site for future reference.

Setting Up Ledger Live Desktop

After installing Ledger Live Desktop, you'll need to set it up to work with your Ledger® hardware wallet:

  1. Open Ledger Live Desktop from your applications menu
  2. If you're new to Ledger®, select "Set up as new device" and follow the instructions at Ledger.com/start
  3. Connect your Ledger® device via USB cable (or Bluetooth for Nano X models)
  4. Enter your PIN code on the device itself (never on the computer)
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to install necessary cryptocurrency apps
  6. Add accounts for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage

The Ledger Live login process is unique—you don't use a password but instead physically confirm access using your hardware device.

Security Advantages of the Desktop Application

Ledger Live Desktop provides several security benefits over other solutions:

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ledger Live Desktop different from the mobile app?
Yes, the desktop version offers full functionality including portfolio management, staking, exchange features, and complete device management. The mobile app focuses on basic operations and portfolio tracking.
Can I use Ledger Live Desktop with multiple Ledger® devices?
Yes, you can manage multiple Ledger® devices through the same Ledger Live Desktop application by adding each device as a separate "instance" in the app.
Do I need to be online to use Ledger Live Desktop?
You need an internet connection to sync with blockchain networks and view current balances. However, you can generate receiving addresses offline.
How often should I update Ledger Live Desktop?
You should install updates whenever they become available, as they often include security improvements, new features, and support for additional cryptocurrencies.
Can I use Ledger Live Desktop without a hardware device?
No, Ledger Live Desktop is specifically designed to work with Ledger® hardware wallets which store your private keys securely offline.
Is my data stored on Ledger's servers?
Your personal data and private keys never leave your device. Optional encrypted backup of your operational data (without private keys) can be stored on Ledger's servers for convenience.