Ledger Live Desktop — Official Desktop App for Secure Crypto Management
Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application developed by Ledger that lets you manage your cryptocurrency securely on a computer. When used with a Ledger hardware wallet like the Ledger Nano X, Ledger Nano S Plus, or Ledger Stax, it provides a powerful and secure interface for sending, receiving, tracking, staking, and swapping crypto assets. (en-ledger-com-io.teachable.com)
Ledger Live Desktop is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, and it connects with your hardware wallet so that your private keys remain offline at all times. (en-ledger-com-io.teachable.com)
What Is Ledger Live Desktop?
Ledger Live Desktop is the official crypto wallet application that works with Ledger hardware wallets to help you:
- Track your portfolio across thousands of assets
- Manage accounts for Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and many other blockchains
- Send and receive crypto securely
- Swap assets inside the app
- Stake supported coins for passive rewards
- Manage NFTs and interact with DeFi from a trusted desktop interface (en-ledger-com-io.teachable.com)
It acts as a secure hub where transactions are prepared on your computer but must be signed on your Ledger device, ensuring your keys never leave the hardware wallet. (liveledgr-desktop.pages.dev)
Why Use Ledger Live Desktop?
🛡️ Strong Security
All sensitive actions (PIN entry, transaction approval, firmware updates) are confirmed on your Ledger device, not on the computer. This keeps your keys safe even if your computer is compromised. (liveledgr-desktop.pages.dev)
📊 Full-Featured Portfolio Control
Ledger Live Desktop lets you see your balances, view price performance, and analyze your portfolio all in one place. (en-ledger-com-io.teachable.com)
💱 Buy, Swap & Earn
Built-in integrations allow you to buy crypto, swap between assets, and stake supported cryptocurrencies like ETH, DOT, SOL, and more — all without leaving the app. (Ledger Live Desktop Getting Started)
🖼️ NFT and Web3 Support
View and manage NFTs stored on supported networks directly within the app and connect to Web3 applications securely while keys remain in your Ledger device. (help-ledgerdesktopp.pages.dev)
Supported Operating Systems
Ledger Live Desktop is available for:
- Windows (10 or later, 64-bit)
- macOS (10.14 Mojave or newer)
- Linux (64-bit distributions) (liveledegr-desktop.pages.dev)
Make sure to download the correct version for your system from the official Ledger site. (en-ledger-com-io.teachable.com)
How to Download and Install Ledger Live Desktop
Step 1: Visit the Official Ledger Live Download Page
Go to the official Ledger Live download section on ledger.com/ledger-live or via ledger.com/start and choose the version for your operating system. (en-ledger-com-io.teachable.com)
⚠️ Always download Ledger Live only from official Ledger sources to avoid fake apps that steal recovery phrases or private keys. (TechRadar)
Step 2: Download and Run the Installer
Select the file for Windows (.exe), macOS (.dmg), or Linux (AppImage) and install it by following the on-screen instructions. (helpweb-ledger-desktop.teachable.com)
Step 3: Connect Your Ledger Wallet
Use a USB cable to connect your hardware wallet to your computer. Ledger Live Desktop will detect your device. (liveledegr-desktop.pages.dev)
Step 4: Add Accounts
After your device is connected, you can add accounts for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage. Ledger Live Desktop will sync your balances and transaction history. (liveledegr-desktop.pages.dev)
Key Features of Ledger Live Desktop
🔐 Hardware-Backed Security
Your private keys never leave your hardware wallet. Ledger Live builds transactions and prompts you to confirm them on-device. (liveledgr-desktop.pages.dev)
📈 Portfolio Tracking
View all your crypto assets in one dashboard with performance charts and real-time value updates. (en-ledger-com-io.teachable.com)
💹 Built-In Buy & Swap Tools
Access buy and swap features directly without exporting keys to third-party services. (Ledger Live Desktop Getting Started)
🪙 Staking Rewards
Earn yield by staking eligible coins like Ethereum and Solana within the app. (Ledger Live Desktop Getting Started)
🖼️ NFT Management
Browse and manage supported NFTs securely in the desktop app. (help-ledgerdesktopp.pages.dev)
Security Best Practices
- Always download Ledger Live Desktop from the official Ledger website to avoid fake installers. (en-ledger-com-io.teachable.com)
- Never enter your recovery phrase into any software or website; your Ledger device is the only place you should confirm this. (liveledgr-desktop.pages.dev)
- Keep your Ledger firmware and Ledger Live app updated for the latest security patches. (liveledegr-desktop.pages.dev)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ledger Live Desktop free?
Yes, Ledger Live Desktop is completely free to download and use. (en-ledger-com-io.teachable.com)
Do I need a Ledger hardware wallet?
Yes. Ledger Live Desktop works best when paired with a Ledger device, because it keeps your private keys offline and secure. (en-ledger-com-io.teachable.com)
Can I manage NFTs and DeFi?
Yes — Ledger Live Desktop includes NFT viewing and integrates with DeFi tools while your keys stay safe. (help-ledgerdesktopp.pages.dev)
Conclusion
Ledger Live Desktop is the official and secure way to manage your cryptocurrency on Windows, macOS, or Linux. Combined with a Ledger hardware wallet, it provides powerful tools for portfolio tracking, staking, swapping, and secure transaction signing — all while your private keys remain protected offline. Always download it from official Ledger sources to stay safe and in full control of your crypto. (en-ledger-com-io.teachable.com)