About Ledger Live Desktop

Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application provided by Ledger to help users securely manage cryptocurrency with Ledger hardware wallets. Built to work tightly with Ledger Nano devices, Ledger Live Desktop offers an audited, privacy-focused interface that keeps private keys on your device while enabling clear, powerful management tools on your computer.

Millions of users rely on Ledger Live Desktop to check balances, sign transactions, install blockchain apps, and access partner services — all while preserving the hardware-first security model that prevents private keys from ever leaving the device.

Key Features

Ledger Live Desktop acts as a secure bridge between your hardware wallet and the modern crypto ecosystem — providing convenience without compromising safety.

Benefits (200-word highlight)

Using Ledger Live Desktop delivers clear advantages that combine practical convenience with enterprise-grade security. First and foremost, your private keys remain stored inside the Ledger device’s secure element — they never touch your computer or the internet. This dramatically reduces attack surface compared to software-only wallets and exchange custody. For everyday management, Ledger Live Desktop consolidates multiple accounts across Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of tokens into a single dashboard so you can monitor performance, history, and asset allocation at a glance.

Another major benefit is transaction assurance: each outgoing action must be confirmed on the physical device. Even if your computer is compromised, an attacker cannot sign or broadcast transactions without the hardware confirmation. Ledger Live Desktop also streamlines device maintenance — installing apps and firmware updates happens in-app with clear prompts and rollback safety. The app’s partner integrations let you buy, swap, and stake assets from trusted providers while Ledger retains control of key signing. For beginners, the guided setup reduces onboarding friction; for professionals, account management and exportable transaction logs support auditing and tax workflows. Combined, these features give users confidence to hold, trade, and interact with decentralized finance while keeping custody firmly in their hands.

How to Install & Get Started

Installing Ledger Live Desktop is straightforward. Visit the official Ledger website and download the desktop installer for your operating system. Run the installer and open the app. Connect your Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S Plus, Nano X, etc.) via USB or Bluetooth where supported, then follow the on-screen guided setup to initialize or restore your device.

During setup you will create a PIN on the device and securely record a recovery phrase. Never store the recovery phrase digitally. After pairing, add accounts inside Ledger Live Desktop and allow the app to sync balances. The app will also notify you when firmware or app updates are available — apply them to keep your device secure.

Download Ledger Live Desktop

Security & Best Practices

Security is central to why people use Ledger Live Desktop. Key protections include on-device signing (so keys never leave the secure element), mandatory physical confirmation for transactions, and verified firmware updates. Ledger Live Desktop itself is signed and distributed via official channels; always download the app from the official Ledger domain and verify signatures if you are security-conscious.

Additional best practices: keep your computer OS up to date, protect your recovery phrase offline, use a strong PIN, and avoid entering the recovery phrase into any software. For increased privacy, use a dedicated machine or sandboxed environment when interacting with large-value transactions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Ledger device to use Ledger Live Desktop? Yes — the desktop app works with Ledger hardware wallets to provide secure signing.

Is Ledger Live Desktop free? Yes, the application is free to download and use.

Which OS are supported? Ledger Live Desktop supports Windows, macOS and major Linux distributions.

Can I use Ledger Live Desktop on multiple computers? Yes — install the app on multiple machines and connect your Ledger device when needed. Always keep the recovery phrase safe.

Take Control with Ledger Live Desktop

For anyone serious about self-custody, Ledger Live Desktop combines the best of both worlds: the protection of a hardware wallet with the convenience of a modern desktop app. From beginners to professionals, Ledger Live Desktop empowers you to manage a diverse crypto portfolio with confidence. Download from the official Ledger site, follow the secure setup steps, and keep your assets under your control.