Ledger Live®® Desktop — Getting Started | Official Ledger Wallet
🖥 Ledger Live Desktop
Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application developed by Ledger for managing crypto assets securely with Ledger hardware wallets. It acts as the command center for users who want full control over their digital assets while keeping private keys safely stored offline inside their Ledger device.
Unlike web-based wallets, Ledger Live Desktop works directly with your hardware wallet, ensuring that every transaction must be physically verified on the device before approval.
🔐 What Makes Ledger Live Desktop Secure?
Ledger Live Desktop is built around a hardware-first security model:
- Private keys never leave the Ledger device
- All transactions require on-device confirmation
- Secure PIN protection on hardware wallet
- 24-word recovery phrase backup
- Encrypted communication between app and device
Even if your computer is infected with malware, attackers cannot sign transactions without physical confirmation on your Ledger device.
🚀 Key Features of Ledger Live Desktop
1️⃣ Portfolio Dashboard
View your entire crypto portfolio in one place with real-time balance updates and price tracking.
2️⃣ Send & Receive Crypto
Securely transfer assets with address verification directly on your hardware wallet screen.
3️⃣ Install Crypto Apps
Install or remove apps for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other supported assets directly from the Manager tab.
4️⃣ Buy, Sell & Swap
Integrated services allow you to purchase, exchange, or sell crypto within the app interface.
5️⃣ Staking & Rewards
Earn passive income by staking supported coins like Ethereum and others directly inside Ledger Live.
6️⃣ Firmware Updates
Receive notifications when firmware updates are available and complete updates safely through guided steps.
💻 Supported Operating Systems
Ledger Live Desktop supports:
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
The desktop version is often preferred by advanced users because it provides full device management, firmware updates, and detailed portfolio tracking.
📥 How to Install Ledger Live Desktop
- Visit the official Ledger website.
- Download the Ledger Live Desktop installer for your operating system.
- Install the application.
- Connect your Ledger device via USB.
- Follow on-screen instructions to complete setup.
Always verify that you are downloading from the official Ledger website to avoid counterfeit software.
🔄 Setting Up Your Device
If you’re new to Ledger:
- Initialize your device
- Create a PIN code
- Write down your 24-word recovery phrase
- Confirm recovery phrase securely
If you already have a device, choose “Restore from recovery phrase” during setup.
📊 Why Choose Ledger Live Desktop?
✔ Greater screen space for managing assets
✔ Full firmware and app management
✔ Advanced portfolio analytics
✔ Enhanced security confirmation
✔ Ideal for long-term crypto holders
Desktop users benefit from a more detailed overview compared to mobile versions.
⚠ Important Security Reminders
- Never share your 24-word recovery phrase
- Ledger will never ask for your seed phrase
- Always confirm transaction details on your device
- Keep your firmware updated
- Avoid downloading Ledger Live from unofficial sources
🏁 Final Thoughts
Ledger Live Desktop offers a powerful yet secure way to manage cryptocurrency assets. By combining a user-friendly interface with hardware-level security, it ensures that users maintain full ownership and protection of their digital wealth.
Whether you are managing Bitcoin, Ethereum, or multiple tokens, Ledger Live Desktop provides a secure environment for crypto storage and transactions.