Ledger® Live: Desktop | Start with Ledger® – Official Crypto

Ledger® Live: Desktop is the official application from Ledger® that enables users to manage their cryptocurrency securely from their computer. Designed to work hand-in-hand with Ledger’s hardware wallets—Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X—this desktop software allows users to access, store, send, receive, and grow their crypto assets from one trusted interface.

With security as its foundation, Ledger Live brings convenience and control to both beginners and experienced crypto users. Whether you’re tracking your portfolio or staking crypto to earn rewards, the desktop version of Ledger Live is your gateway to safely navigating the world of digital assets.


What is Ledger® Live: Desktop?

Ledger® Live: Desktop is a downloadable application available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It serves as the central hub for managing your Ledger hardware wallet and your crypto assets. Unlike web wallets or exchanges, Ledger Live gives you full ownership and control over your private keys—which are always stored on your Ledger device and never exposed online.

Once installed, Ledger Live lets you:

  • View your portfolio in real-time
  • Send and receive crypto securely
  • Install blockchain apps
  • Stake supported cryptocurrencies
  • Manage NFTs and interact with Web3 apps

It’s an all-in-one solution for self-custody.


Getting Started with Ledger Live: Desktop

Step 1: Download the App

Go to the official site: ledger.com/ledger-live and download the Ledger Live desktop application. Always ensure you’re using the official website to avoid downloading malicious versions.

Step 2: Connect Your Ledger Device

Plug in your Ledger Nano S Plus or Nano X via USB. For first-time users, you’ll be guided to set up your device, create a PIN, and note down your 24-word recovery phrase—your critical backup in case the device is lost or damaged.

Step 3: Verify Device Authenticity

Ledger Live performs a genuine check to confirm that your hardware wallet hasn’t been tampered with and is safe to use.

Step 4: Add Crypto Accounts

After connecting, you can install blockchain-specific apps (like Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) and add accounts in Ledger Live to begin managing your coins and tokens.


Core Features of Ledger Live Desktop

✔ Portfolio Tracker

Track your balance and asset performance across all supported cryptocurrencies in one place.

✔ Secure Transactions

Every transaction must be physically approved on your Ledger device, preventing unauthorized access or transfers.

✔ Multi-Asset Support

Manage over 5,500+ cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Solana, and countless ERC-20 and BEP-20 tokens.

✔ Staking and Rewards

Stake supported coins like Ethereum, Polkadot, Tezos, and Algorand directly from the app and earn rewards.

✔ NFT and Web3 Integration

View, receive, and send NFTs (Ethereum/Polygon) and access decentralized apps via Ledger’s “Discover” section.

✔ App Management

Use the “My Ledger” tab to install or remove apps on your device to optimize storage and add support for new coins.


Why Choose the Desktop Version?

  • Enhanced Privacy: All activity is stored locally, not in the cloud.
  • Robust Security: Your private keys are never online. Ledger uses a certified secure chip (CC EAL5+).
  • Offline Protection: Even if your computer is infected with malware, your crypto remains safe thanks to hardware confirmation.
  • Regular Updates: Frequent software and firmware updates from Ledger improve performance, add features, and patch vulnerabilities.

Important Security Tips

  • Never share your recovery phrase. Ledger will never ask for it.
  • Buy only from official sources to avoid counterfeit products.
  • Use the latest version of Ledger Live and firmware for maximum protection.
  • Enable password lock within the desktop app for added privacy.

Final Thoughts

Ledger® Live: Desktop is the official and most secure way to manage your cryptocurrency portfolio. Paired with a Ledger hardware wallet, it delivers unmatched security, transparency, and usability. Whether you're sending your first crypto transaction or diversifying a growing portfolio, Ledger Live: Desktop gives you the tools you need to take full control of your digital assets—safely and confidently.