Ledger Live Desktop — Getting Started | | Official Ledger Wallet

Ledger Live Desktop | Manage Your Cryptocurrency Securely

Ledger Live Desktop is the official software for Ledger hardware wallets, offering a secure and intuitive way to manage cryptocurrency assets on your computer. Compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux, it allows users to monitor portfolios, send and receive funds, stake supported cryptocurrencies, and update their devices—all while keeping private keys offline and protected.

Ledger Live Desktop is ideal for both beginners and experienced investors who want a reliable, user-friendly interface combined with the strong security of a Ledger hardware wallet.


Why Use Ledger Live Desktop

Ledger Live Desktop provides advantages that web wallets and exchange-based solutions cannot:

  • Offline key storage: Private keys remain on your hardware wallet
  • Multi-asset management: Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of other tokens
  • Transaction verification: Confirm all transactions directly on your device
  • Real-time portfolio tracking: Monitor balances and asset allocation
  • Firmware updates: Keep your device secure and up to date

Downloading the software from Ledger.com/start ensures you are using the official and verified version. Using any unofficial source can put your assets at risk.


Key Features of Ledger Live Desktop

1. Secure Account Management

Ledger Live Desktop allows you to:

  • Add multiple cryptocurrency accounts
  • View balances and transaction history
  • Organize assets in a single interface

Every account is linked to your Ledger hardware wallet, giving you complete self-custody control over your crypto.


2. Sending and Receiving Crypto

Ledger Live Desktop makes transactions simple and secure:

  • Send and receive crypto across supported networks
  • Verify transaction details on the hardware device
  • Customize fees for faster or cheaper transactions

Physical confirmation on your Ledger device ensures that all transactions are safe from phishing or malware attacks.


3. Portfolio Tracking

The software offers a detailed portfolio dashboard:

  • Total portfolio value at a glance
  • Individual asset performance and allocation
  • Historical charts and analytics

Portfolio tracking makes it easy to monitor crypto investments and plan trading or staking strategies.


4. Staking and Rewards

Ledger Live Desktop supports staking for compatible cryptocurrencies:

  • Stake directly from the app without exposing private keys
  • Earn rewards securely
  • Track rewards in your portfolio dashboard

Staking through Ledger Live Desktop is straightforward and safe, making it an ideal tool for long-term holders.


5. Firmware and Software Updates

Ledger Live Desktop keeps your device updated and secure:

  • Notifications for firmware updates
  • Step-by-step installation instructions
  • Protection against vulnerabilities and malware

Updating both Ledger Live Desktop and your hardware device is essential for maximizing security.


How to Get Started

  1. Download Ledger Live Desktop: Go to Ledger.com/start and select your operating system.
  2. Connect Your Ledger Device: Use your Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X and enter your PIN.
  3. Add Cryptocurrency Accounts: Choose the coins and tokens you want to manage.
  4. Send, Receive, and Stake: Use Ledger Live Desktop to manage all crypto activity securely.
  5. Explore Advanced Features: Track portfolio performance, stake coins, and install additional coin applications.

Ledger Live Desktop ensures that all sensitive actions are verified on your hardware device, giving you peace of mind that your private keys are never exposed.


Security Benefits

Ledger Live Desktop is built to maximize security:

  • Hardware verification: Every transaction must be confirmed physically on the device
  • Offline key storage: Private keys never leave your Ledger wallet
  • Encrypted communication: Protects interaction between Ledger Live Desktop and your hardware device
  • Open-source software: Fully auditable for transparency and trust

For additional security guidance, see the Ledger security overview.


Best Practices for Ledger Live Desktop

  1. Always download the software from Ledger.com/start
  2. Never share your recovery phrase or PIN
  3. Enable passphrase protection for extra security
  4. Verify every transaction on your device screen
  5. Keep Ledger Live Desktop and firmware updated regularly

Following these steps ensures that your Ledger Live Desktop experience is safe, reliable, and efficient.


Why Ledger Live Desktop Is Ideal

Ledger Live Desktop combines security, convenience, and advanced functionality in a single application. It is perfect for:

  • Beginners seeking a trusted way to manage cryptocurrency
  • Experienced users interacting with multiple assets and staking programs
  • Investors who want full control and visibility of their portfolio

By pairing Ledger Live Desktop with your Ledger hardware wallet, you enjoy maximum security, self-custody, and real-time portfolio management.


Start Using Ledger Live Desktop Today

Download Ledger Live Desktop from Ledger.com/start today to begin managing your digital assets securely. With hardware-level verification, multi-asset support, staking, and real-time portfolio tracking, Ledger Live Desktop ensures your cryptocurrency remains safe, accessible, and easy to manage.