Ledger Live Desktop® | Manage Your Crypto™ Assets®

Ledger Live Desktop

The official Ledger application for secure cryptocurrency management on desktop devices

Overview of Ledger Live Desktop

Ledger Live Desktop is the trusted, all-in-one application developed by Ledger to help users securely manage digital assets. By pairing your Ledger Nano X or Ledger Nano S Plus with the desktop app, you can manage your cryptocurrency portfolio, stake tokens, and access DeFi services while keeping your private keys protected offline.

How to Set Up Ledger Live Desktop

Step 1: Download from the Official Ledger Site

Visit Ledger’s official website and navigate to the download section. Ensure the URL starts with https://www.ledger.com to avoid fake versions or phishing attacks.

Step 2: Select Your Operating System

Choose between Windows, macOS, or Linux. Download the version that matches your computer’s OS.

Step 3: Install and Launch

Once downloaded, run the installer and follow the setup instructions. After installation, open the app to begin.

Step 4: Connect Your Ledger Device

Plug in your Ledger hardware wallet using the provided USB cable, or pair via Bluetooth if using the Nano X. The app will automatically detect your device.

Step 5: Initialize or Restore Your Wallet

Choose between “Set up as new device” or “Restore from recovery phrase.” Your wallet will be securely linked with Ledger Live while your private keys remain inside the device.

Managing Assets in Ledger Live Desktop

Once your device is connected, Ledger Live Desktop becomes your secure financial dashboard. You can send and receive crypto, monitor real-time prices, and stake supported assets—all in one place.

Security and Privacy You Can Trust

Hardware-Level Protection

Every Ledger device is built with a Secure Element chip—the same technology used in passports and credit cards. This ensures your private keys never leave the hardware wallet, even when connected to your computer.

End-to-End Encryption

All communication between Ledger Live and your device is encrypted, ensuring full privacy and preventing unauthorized access.

Manual Transaction Verification

Each transaction must be manually verified on your Ledger device’s screen, providing a physical safeguard against malware or fake sites.

Core Features of Ledger Live Desktop

Best Practices for Ledger Live Desktop Users

1. Always Download from Official Sources

Only install Ledger Live Desktop from Ledger’s verified website to avoid counterfeit versions.

2. Keep Software and Firmware Updated

Ledger regularly releases updates that include new features and critical security improvements.

3. Protect Your Recovery Phrase

Record your 24-word recovery phrase on paper, store it securely offline, and never share it digitally.

4. Verify Every Transaction

Double-check transaction details on your device before confirming, ensuring complete protection from scams or hacks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is Ledger Live Desktop free to use?

Yes, Ledger Live is completely free. You only need a Ledger hardware wallet to access its full features securely.

Q2: Can I use Ledger Live Desktop without a Ledger device?

You can view the interface, but managing funds requires a connected Ledger hardware wallet for security.

Q3: Does Ledger Live support NFTs?

Yes. Ledger Live supports NFT viewing and management for Ethereum and Polygon networks.

Q4: What should I do if I lose my Ledger device?

You can restore your crypto assets on a new device using your recovery phrase. Always keep it stored securely offline.

Q5: Is Ledger Live Desktop open source?

Yes, Ledger Live’s code is partially open-source, reflecting Ledger’s commitment to transparency and user trust.