Ledger Live Desktop | Getting Started | Official Ledger® Wallet
Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application developed by Ledger that allows users to securely manage cryptocurrencies using a Ledger hardware wallet. Designed for Windows, macOS, and Linux, the desktop version provides the highest level of security and full feature access compared to browser-based alternatives.
If you own a Ledger hardware wallet, Ledger Live Desktop is the recommended way to manage your digital assets safely.
🔐 What Is Ledger Live Desktop?
Ledger Live Desktop is a secure software interface that connects directly to your Ledger hardware wallet. It enables you to:
- Send and receive crypto
- Install and manage coin apps
- Track your portfolio
- Buy, sell, and swap digital assets
- Manage NFTs
- Update device firmware
Unlike online wallets, Ledger Live Desktop does not store your private keys on your computer. Your private keys remain safely inside your Ledger device.
💻 Supported Devices
Ledger Live Desktop works with:
- Ledger Nano S Plus
- Ledger Nano X
You connect the device via USB (Bluetooth is supported mainly on mobile for Nano X).
🚀 Why Use the Desktop Version?
While Ledger Live is available on mobile, the desktop version offers:
✅ Maximum security
✅ Full portfolio features
✅ Larger interface for easier management
✅ Advanced account controls
✅ Better firmware management tools
For serious investors and long-term holders, the desktop version is strongly recommended.
🛠️ How to Download Ledger Live Desktop
Step 1: Visit the Official Ledger Website
Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website to avoid phishing scams.
Step 2: Choose Your Operating System
Select from:
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
Step 3: Install the Application
Run the installer and follow on-screen instructions.
Step 4: Connect Your Ledger Device
Plug in your Ledger hardware wallet and enter your PIN on the device.
Once unlocked, Ledger Live Desktop will load your dashboard.
🔄 Firmware & App Management
Ledger Live Desktop allows you to:
- Install crypto apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.)
- Update firmware securely
- Manage device storage
- Add multiple accounts per asset
All installations and updates require confirmation on your Ledger device.
🔑 Security Model
Ledger Live Desktop follows a strict security architecture:
- Private keys never leave the hardware wallet
- Transactions must be approved on the device
- Recovery phrase is generated offline
- PIN protection prevents unauthorized access
- Open-source components ensure transparency
Even if your computer is compromised, your crypto remains protected.
🧩 Portfolio & Asset Management
With Ledger Live Desktop, you can:
- View real-time portfolio balance
- Monitor transaction history
- Add multiple accounts
- Buy/sell crypto via integrated providers
- Swap tokens securely
- Manage NFTs
The clean interface makes it simple for beginners while offering advanced controls for experienced users.
⚠️ Important Security Reminders
- Never share your 24-word recovery phrase
- Never enter your recovery phrase into a website
- Ledger will never ask for your seed phrase
- Always verify transaction details on your device screen
- Keep Ledger Live updated
If a website asks for your recovery phrase, it is a scam.
🔄 Restoring Wallet on Desktop
If you need to restore access:
- Reset or replace your Ledger device
- Choose “Restore from recovery phrase”
- Enter your 24-word seed phrase on the device
- Reconnect to Ledger Live Desktop
Your accounts and balances will reappear after synchronization.
🏁 Final Thoughts
Ledger Live Desktop provides a powerful and secure environment for managing cryptocurrency with a Ledger hardware wallet. By combining hardware-level key protection with a feature-rich desktop interface, it delivers institutional-grade security for everyday users.
For the safest and most complete crypto management experience, Ledger Live Desktop remains the recommended solution.