Ledger Live Desktop | Download & Manage Crypto Securely

Ledger Live is the official desktop application developed by Ledger to help users securely manage, buy, sell, stake, and track cryptocurrencies. Designed to work seamlessly with Ledger hardware wallets, Ledger Live acts as the control center for your digital assets, combining strong security with a clean and intuitive user experience.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know to get started with Ledger Live Desktop—from installation and setup to managing assets and maintaining best-in-class security.

What Is Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop is a non-custodial crypto management application. This means you remain in full control of your private keys, which are stored securely on your Ledger hardware wallet rather than on your computer or online.

The desktop app allows you to:

  • Manage multiple cryptocurrencies in one place
  • Send and receive crypto securely
  • Track portfolio performance in real time
  • Install and manage apps on your Ledger device
  • Buy, sell, swap, and stake supported assets
  • Update firmware and verify device authenticity

Ledger Live is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it suitable for a wide range of users—from beginners to advanced crypto holders.

System Requirements and Compatibility

Before installing Ledger Live Desktop, ensure your system meets basic requirements:

  • A modern Windows, macOS, or Linux operating system
  • Internet connection for synchronization and updates
  • A Ledger hardware wallet such as Nano S Plus or Nano X
  • USB cable (or Bluetooth, depending on the device)

Ledger Live supports thousands of cryptocurrencies and tokens, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and many ERC-20 assets.

Installing Ledger Live Desktop

Getting started begins with downloading Ledger Live from Ledger’s official source. Installing from the official website is critical to avoid phishing or malicious software.

Once installed, launch the application and choose whether you are setting up a new Ledger device or using an existing one. Ledger Live will guide you step by step, making the onboarding process approachable even for first-time users.

Setting Up Your Ledger Device

If you are new to Ledger hardware wallets, setup involves:

  1. Initializing the device
  2. Creating a PIN code
  3. Writing down the 24-word recovery phrase

The recovery phrase is the most important part of your setup. It is the only way to restore your funds if your device is lost or damaged. Ledger Live will never ask you to enter this phrase on your computer.

For existing users, Ledger Live allows you to connect your device and verify its authenticity before proceeding.

Understanding the Ledger Live Interface

Ledger Live Desktop is divided into several core sections:

Portfolio
The Portfolio dashboard provides an overview of your total crypto holdings, recent activity, and performance over time. It supports multiple accounts and assets, making it easy to see everything at a glance.

Accounts
Each cryptocurrency has its own account. You can add multiple accounts for the same asset, which is useful for separating funds or tracking different purposes.

Send & Receive
These features allow you to transfer crypto securely. Transactions must be physically approved on your Ledger device, adding a layer of protection even if your computer is compromised.

Discover / Services
Ledger Live integrates third-party services for buying, selling, swapping, and staking crypto—without giving up control of your keys.

Manager
The Manager section lets you install and uninstall apps on your Ledger device, update firmware, and manage storage.

Adding Cryptocurrency Accounts

To manage a cryptocurrency, you must first add an account:

  1. Connect and unlock your Ledger device
  2. Install the relevant crypto app on the device
  3. Add the account in Ledger Live

Once added, Ledger Live synchronizes blockchain data so you can view balances and transactions in real time.

Sending and Receiving Crypto Safely

Receiving crypto is straightforward: Ledger Live generates a verified address that you confirm directly on your hardware wallet screen. This verification ensures the address hasn’t been altered by malware.

Sending crypto requires:

  • Entering the recipient’s address
  • Choosing transaction fees
  • Physically approving the transaction on the Ledger device

This approval step is critical—it prevents unauthorized transfers even if someone gains access to your computer.

Buying, Selling, and Swapping Assets

Ledger Live Desktop integrates trusted service providers that allow users to buy, sell, or swap crypto directly within the app. While these services are optional, they provide convenience without compromising security.

All transactions still require confirmation on your hardware wallet, keeping you in control at all times.

Staking and Earning Rewards

For supported cryptocurrencies, Ledger Live allows you to stake assets and earn rewards directly from the app. Staking is designed to be user-friendly, with clear explanations of lock-up periods, rewards, and risks.

Importantly, staking through Ledger Live does not mean handing over your private keys—they remain secured on your device.

Security Best Practices

Ledger Live Desktop is built with security as its foundation, but user habits matter just as much. Follow these best practices:

  • Never share your 24-word recovery phrase
  • Only download Ledger Live from official sources
  • Verify addresses on your device screen
  • Keep your device firmware and Ledger Live app updated
  • Beware of emails or messages claiming to be Ledger support

Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase or PIN.

Updating Ledger Live and Firmware

Ledger Live regularly releases updates to improve performance, add new features, and support additional assets. The app will notify you when updates are available.

Firmware updates are handled through Ledger Live and must be approved on your device, ensuring authenticity and security.

Who Is Ledger Live Desktop For?

Ledger Live Desktop is ideal for:

  • Long-term crypto holders prioritizing security
  • Users managing multiple assets and accounts
  • Anyone who wants full control over private keys
  • Beginners who want guided setup with strong safeguards

Whether you hold a small portfolio or a large one, Ledger Live scales well with your needs.

Final Thoughts

Ledger® Live: Desktop® serves as a powerful yet accessible gateway to secure cryptocurrency management. By combining a polished desktop interface with the unmatched protection of a hardware wallet, it offers peace of mind in an increasingly complex digital asset landscape.

If you are serious about crypto security and want a reliable, non-custodial solution, Ledger Live Desktop provides a strong foundation for managing and growing your digital assets—securely, transparently, and on your terms.