What is Ledger Live Desktop?
Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop companion app for Ledger hardware wallets. It provides a single, secure interface to check portfolio balances, send and receive crypto, install and manage device apps, stake supported assets, and connect third-party decentralized apps.
Core features
Real-time balance tracking across accounts with historical charts and performance metrics.
Create transactions, verify details on your device, and broadcast with confidence.
Install and uninstall blockchain apps on your Ledger device to add or remove coin support.
Stake supported tokens directly from Ledger Live and view rewards over time.
Swap between assets using integrated swap partners without exposing private keys.
Automatic update checks for the app and for device firmware to keep you protected.
Getting started
To start, download Ledger Live Desktop for Windows, macOS or Linux. Connect your Ledger hardware device via USB (or via Bluetooth for supported models), create or recover an account, and add currencies. Ledger Live guides you step-by-step while sensitive operations always require confirmation on the physical device.
Security model
Ledger Live is a manager interface — your private keys never leave the Ledger hardware device. Transactions are signed on-device and the desktop app only transmits signed transactions to the network. The combination of a hardware element (secure chip) and the Ledger Live software provides defense-in-depth against online threats.
Always verify transaction details on your Ledger device screen before approving. Ledger Live will never ask for your recovery phrase.
Best practices
- Only download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website.
- Keep firmware and app versions up to date.
- Never share your 24-word recovery phrase — keep it offline and safe.
- Use a strong OS password and enable full disk encryption where available.
Advanced workflows
Ledger Live supports power-user workflows: connect to third-party dApps via WalletConnect, use custom derivation paths for expert accounts, and export account addresses for on-chain analysis. Developers can pair Ledger devices with local tooling for secure signing during application development.
If you rely on multiple crypto services, use separate accounts for different strategies (long-term holding vs daily trading) and monitor each with Ledger Live's portfolio tools.
Troubleshooting & support
Common issues usually relate to cable/port problems or outdated firmware. Try a different USB cable or port, restart Ledger Live, and check for updates. If something still fails, refer to the official support guides and the safety checklist before contacting support.
Why choose Ledger Live Desktop?
Ledger Live Desktop combines accessibility and strong security by keeping private keys isolated on hardware while providing a polished desktop experience. Whether you are new to crypto or managing a complex portfolio, Ledger Live offers tools to control assets responsibly.