Ledger Live Desktop is the official software application designed to work with Ledger hardware wallets, giving you full control of your cryptocurrency portfolio directly from your computer. Whether you are a beginner exploring digital assets for the first time or an advanced investor managing multiple accounts, Ledger Live Desktop provides the right balance of usability and security.
Ledger Live Desktop is a desktop application available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It allows you to install and update apps on your Ledger hardware device, manage thousands of supported cryptocurrencies, and access essential features like staking, swapping, and portfolio tracking. With its clean interface and integration with Ledger’s secure hardware, it ensures that your private keys always remain offline and protected.
To begin, download Ledger Live Desktop directly from the official Ledger website. Avoid third-party sources, as they could expose you to malware or phishing. Once installed, connect your Ledger device (Nano S, Nano X, or Nano S Plus) via USB and follow the guided setup. You’ll be prompted to set up a password for the app, ensuring that your local information remains protected.
Unlike traditional apps, Ledger Live Desktop does not require cloud-based login credentials like email or passwords linked to an online account. Instead, it uses a local password to protect the app and relies on the hardware device for transaction approvals. This design eliminates risks associated with remote hacking while giving you full custody of your crypto.
If you enable biometric or password manager integration on your computer, you can streamline access while keeping the core security model intact.
In case you lose or reset your Ledger Live installation, you can always restore your portfolio by reconnecting your Ledger hardware device and entering your 24-word recovery phrase. This ensures that you can recover your funds on any computer, anywhere in the world. Never share your recovery phrase with anyone — it is the only key to your assets.
The desktop application is designed with clarity in mind. The dashboard provides a portfolio overview, while side menus give easy access to accounts, transactions, and discovery features. Updates are pushed regularly, bringing performance improvements and support for new coins.
Using Ledger Live Desktop alongside your Ledger hardware wallet means combining convenience with world-class security. You get the functionality of a digital banking app while maintaining offline protection of your private keys. This hybrid model has made Ledger one of the most trusted names in crypto asset management.
Ledger Live Desktop empowers users to manage, grow, and safeguard their cryptocurrency investments without compromising security. By uniting a polished interface, powerful features, and the unmatched protection of hardware wallets, it sets the standard for safe digital asset management. Whether you are tracking a handful of coins or diversifying into DeFi and staking, Ledger Live Desktop provides everything you need in one secure, stylish package.