Ledger Live Desktop — Secure Cryptocurrency Management
Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application designed to manage your Ledger® hardware wallet securely. Whether you own a Ledger Nano S Plus™ or Ledger Nano X™, Ledger Live Desktop lets you install apps, add accounts, track your portfolio, and perform crypto transactions—all while keeping your private keys safely offline.
Starting your Ledger experience with Ledger Live Desktop ensures you have the safest and most reliable way to manage digital assets. Always begin at Ledger.com/start to download the official software and follow verified setup instructions.
Why Choose Ledger Live Desktop?
Ledger Live Desktop provides comprehensive features that make it a complete wallet management solution:
- Device management: Set up, restore, and manage your Ledger hardware wallet securely.
- Portfolio tracking: Monitor your crypto assets in real time.
- Send and receive crypto: Execute transactions safely, requiring device confirmation for every operation.
- Install and update apps: Ledger devices require individual apps for each cryptocurrency, which can be installed through Ledger Live Desktop.
- Buy, swap, and stake crypto: Access partner services directly within Ledger Live, without exposing private keys.
Unlike online wallets, Ledger Live Desktop ensures that your private keys never leave your device, providing the ultimate layer of security.
Downloading Ledger Live Desktop
To get started, always download Ledger Live Desktop from the official source: Ledger.com/start. This prevents phishing attempts and ensures you receive the latest updates.
Steps to download:
- Go to Ledger.com/start.
- Select your Ledger device model (Nano S Plus or Nano X).
- Choose your operating system: Windows, macOS, or Linux.
- Download the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
Once installed, Ledger Live Desktop will prompt you to verify your device and perform a genuine check, confirming that your hardware wallet is authentic and secure.
Setting Up Ledger Live Desktop
After installation:
- Open Ledger Live Desktop.
- Click Get Started and select your device type.
- Choose to Set up as a new device or restore from a recovery phrase.
- Create a secure PIN on your Ledger hardware wallet.
- Record your 24-word recovery phrase offline and store it in a safe location.
Your recovery phrase is your master key—never store it digitally or share it with anyone. Ledger support will never ask for it.
Installing Apps and Adding Accounts
Ledger Live Desktop allows you to manage multiple cryptocurrencies by installing apps for each asset.
How to install apps:
- Open the Manager tab in Ledger Live Desktop.
- Connect and unlock your device.
- Browse and install cryptocurrency apps like Bitcoin, Ethereum, or others.
After installation, add accounts:
- Navigate to Accounts.
- Click Add Account and select the desired cryptocurrency.
- Confirm the addition on your Ledger device.
Once accounts are added, you can securely send, receive, and track assets. All transactions require physical confirmation on the device, protecting against malware and online attacks.
Security Best Practices
- Always download Ledger Live Desktop from Ledger.com/start.
- Keep the app and your Ledger device firmware updated.
- Never share your 24-word recovery phrase or PIN.
- Beware of phishing emails or fake websites.
- Use the Ledger device for transaction confirmations instead of entering private keys on a computer.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Device not detected:
- Ensure your USB cable and port are functional.
- Unlock the device before connecting.
App installation fails:
- Update your Ledger device firmware.
- Remove conflicting apps before reinstalling.
Transaction issues:
- Check network fees and blockchain congestion.
- Ensure Ledger Live Desktop is updated to the latest version.
For additional help, visit the official Ledger support section at Ledger.com/start.
Final Thoughts
Ledger Live Desktop is a secure, user-friendly solution for managing cryptocurrencies with a Ledger hardware wallet. By downloading the official app from Ledger.com/start, setting up your device properly, and following security best practices, you can safely manage your digital assets while keeping your private keys offline.
Ledger Live Desktop is the central hub for your Ledger wallet, offering portfolio tracking, transaction management, and full crypto control—all with industry-leading security.