Ledger® Live: Desktop® — Getting Started

The official Ledger Wallet™ App designed to manage digital assets securely, directly from your desktop environment.

What Is Ledger® Live Desktop?

Ledger® Live Desktop® is the official application created to work seamlessly with Ledger hardware wallets. It allows users to manage, protect, and grow their crypto portfolio while keeping private keys offline. Designed specifically for desktop operating systems, Ledger Live delivers enhanced visibility, performance, and advanced portfolio tools not always available on mobile platforms.

Unlike traditional software wallets, Ledger Live Desktop never stores sensitive data online. Instead, it acts as a secure interface between your computer and your Ledger device, ensuring every transaction is physically verified.

Why Choose the Desktop Version?

The desktop edition of Ledger Live offers a broader screen layout, deeper analytics, and faster navigation when managing complex portfolios. Traders, long-term investors, and institutions often prefer desktop access for its precision and expanded control.

System Requirements & Compatibility

Ledger Live Desktop is built to operate smoothly on modern systems while maintaining strict security standards. Before installation, ensure your device meets the minimum specifications for optimal performance.

Security-First Architecture

Security remains the core philosophy behind Ledger® Live Desktop®. Every transaction must be physically confirmed on the Ledger hardware device, preventing unauthorized actions even if the computer is compromised.

The application integrates secure elements, encrypted communication, and verified software updates to reduce risks associated with malware or phishing attacks.

Installing Ledger® Live Desktop

Installing Ledger Live Desktop is a straightforward process designed with user clarity in mind. The setup wizard guides users step-by-step, ensuring correct configuration and device pairing.

Once installed, the app verifies its integrity and confirms that the downloaded version matches Ledger’s official release signature, adding an extra layer of trust.

First-Time Setup Experience

During the first launch, users can choose to initialize a new Ledger device or connect an existing one. The interface explains each step clearly, making the experience suitable for beginners and experts alike.

Managing Crypto Assets

Ledger Live Desktop supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies and tokens. Users can install individual blockchain apps on their Ledger device directly from the desktop interface.

Asset balances update in real time, while transaction histories remain transparent and easy to audit.

Sending & Receiving Funds

Sending crypto through Ledger Live requires confirmation on the hardware wallet, ensuring each transaction is intentional and verified.

Receiving funds is equally simple: users generate verified addresses directly from the Ledger device, eliminating the risk of address manipulation.

Portfolio Tracking & Insights

Ledger Live Desktop offers comprehensive portfolio visualization, including asset distribution, historical performance, and market trends. These insights help users make informed decisions without exposing private data.

Prices are aggregated from reliable market sources while maintaining user privacy.

Staking & Growth Features

Eligible cryptocurrencies can be staked directly within Ledger Live Desktop. This allows users to earn rewards while maintaining full custody of their assets.

Staking operations are transparent, with clear reward tracking and withdrawal controls.

Firmware & App Updates

Keeping your Ledger device up to date is critical for security. Ledger Live Desktop manages firmware updates safely and verifies authenticity before installation.

The update process ensures no private information is exposed or transmitted externally.

Privacy & User Control

Ledger Live Desktop does not require account creation. Users maintain full control over data visibility, and no personal information is shared.

Optional analytics can be disabled, reinforcing Ledger’s commitment to privacy-first design.

Common Desktop Troubleshooting

Most issues can be resolved by checking device connections, updating the app, or verifying firmware compatibility.

Best Practices for Long-Term Use

For optimal security, users should store recovery phrases offline, verify addresses on the device screen, and avoid third-party download sources.

Regular backups and cautious transaction verification ensure long-term asset safety.

Ledger® Live: Desktop® — Getting Started | official Ledger Wallet™ App