Why Ledger Live Desktop?
Ledger Live Desktop is the official companion app for Ledger hardware wallets (Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, and others). It combines a polished user experience with strong security: private keys remain on your hardware device and every sensitive action requires a physical confirmation. Use Ledger Live Desktop to add accounts, check balances, send and receive crypto, stake supported tokens, install blockchain-specific apps on your Ledger device, and safely interact with selected Web3 integrations.
This page covers everything you need to download, set up, and use Ledger Live Desktop effectively while maintaining best security practices.
Download & Install
Get Ledger Live Desktop only from Ledger's official pages to avoid counterfeit apps. Choose the installer that matches your operating system and follow the secure installation steps below.
Desktop installers
Supported installers include:
- Windows (64-bit installer)
- macOS (Intel & Apple Silicon)
- Linux (Debian/Ubuntu packages and other distributions)
After downloading, verify the installer checksum or signature if Ledger provides it — this helps ensure you have an authentic file.
Installation steps
- Visit Ledger’s official Ledger Live page (always verify the domain).
- Download the correct installer for your OS.
- Run the installer and follow the on-screen prompts.
- Open Ledger Live Desktop once installation completes — the app will guide you through connecting your Ledger device.
Set Up Your Ledger Device with Ledger Live Desktop
If your Ledger device is brand-new, initialize it directly on the device and record the recovery phrase. If you already have a recovery phrase from another device, you can restore it during setup. Ledger Live Desktop will guide you through the process step-by-step.
Step 1 — Open Ledger Live
Choose "Get started" and select whether you are setting up a new device or restoring an existing one.
Step 2 — Connect your device
Use the supplied USB cable (or Bluetooth for compatible devices) to connect. Unlock the device using the PIN you set on-device during initialization.
Step 3 — Install apps
Ledger Live Manager installs blockchain-specific apps on your device (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). Apps allow the device to derive addresses and sign transactions for that blockchain.
Step 4 — Add accounts
In Ledger Live, go to Accounts → Add account → select the currency and follow the prompts. Ledger Live will scan for addresses and display balances associated with your public keys.
Tip: Always confirm addresses and transaction details on your Ledger device’s screen — the device is the single source of truth and cannot be spoofed by the host computer.
Key Features
Ledger Live Desktop provides a suite of tools that make secure crypto management accessible and practical for everyday and advanced users alike.
Portfolio Dashboard
View consolidated balances across all added accounts, track historical value, and monitor allocations. Ledger Live aggregates on-chain data to present up-to-date valuations and simple performance charts.
Send & Receive
Receive funds by generating an address in Ledger Live and verifying it on-device. Create send transactions in Ledger Live; the Ledger device will display transaction details and require physical confirmation to sign.
Manager & App Control
Install, update, and remove blockchain apps on your Ledger device via the Manager. Devices have limited storage — Ledger Live helps manage which apps are installed to match your needs.
Staking & Rewards
Stake supported assets directly from Ledger Live to earn rewards while keeping custody of your keys. Ledger Live shows estimated rewards, lock-up terms, and the staking workflow for supported chains.
Buy & Swap Partners
Ledger Live integrates third-party services for fiat on-ramps and in-app swaps. These integrations provide convenience while partners handle execution; review partner fees and KYC requirements before using.
Workflows & Integrations
Connect Ledger Live with selected Web3 integrations and use the device to sign transactions for dApps where supported. Ledger Live preserves on-device verification for all sensitive approvals.
Security Principles & Best Practices
Ledger Live Desktop is built around the principle that sensitive secrets never leave the hardware device. Still, user practices matter. Follow these recommendations to keep assets safe.
Private keys remain on the device
All signing happens on the Ledger device. Ledger Live constructs unsigned transactions, and the device returns a cryptographic signature once you verify the content and physically approve it.
Secure your recovery phrase
Write your recovery phrase on the supplied recovery card or a durable metal backup. Never store the seed digitally (photos, cloud storage, notes). If someone obtains your recovery phrase, they control your funds.
Enable a strong PIN & optional passphrase
Set a robust PIN on the device. Advanced users can enable an extra passphrase (25th word) to create hidden wallets — powerful for privacy, but increases recovery complexity.
Always verify on device
When receiving or sending funds, always verify the full receiving address or transaction details on your Ledger device screen. Never approve a transaction without confirming the device display content.
Beware of phishing & counterfeit apps
Always download Ledger Live and firmware from Ledger’s official domain. Use bookmarks to reach official pages. Ledger support will never ask for your recovery phrase or private keys.
Keep software & firmware updated
Install Ledger Live updates and apply device firmware updates through Ledger Live to benefit from security patches and new features. Verify update prompts on the device before confirming.
Portfolio Management & Practical Tips
Ledger Live Desktop is both a portfolio viewer and a management tool. Use the features below to keep your holdings organized and to perform routine tasks safely.
Organize accounts
Create separate accounts for different purposes (e.g., long-term holdings vs trading). Ledger Live lets you name accounts and show transaction history per account for clearer bookkeeping.
Export transaction history
Export CSV records for accounting and tax reporting. Keep accurate records of buys, sells, transfers, and staking rewards for tax compliance in your jurisdiction.
UTXO & coin control (Bitcoin)
Power users can manage UTXOs, set custom fees, and use coin control features to optimize privacy and fee usage when sending Bitcoin.
Testing & smallest transfers
Before moving large amounts, perform a small test transfer to confirm address correctness and signing workflow. This lightweight step avoids costly mistakes.
Backup & disaster planning
Plan how your recovery phrase is stored and accessed in case of death, loss, or disaster. Consider legal and trusted mechanisms (safe deposit boxes, trusted custodians) while avoiding single points of failure.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Keys are generated and stored on your Ledger device. Ledger Live only constructs transactions and reads public data; signing requires you to confirm on the device.
Replace the device and restore from your recovery phrase using another Ledger device or compatible wallet. Never enter your recovery phrase on a website or untrusted device.
Ledger Live prompts for firmware updates when available. Follow the on-screen steps and verify the update details on your device before approving the installation.
Partners have their own compliance and fee structures. Ledger Live provides integration points; partner terms and KYC requirements apply. Review partner information before completing transactions.
Ledger publishes many components and documentation. Check Ledger’s developer resources and repositories for details on open-source elements and audit reports.
Start managing your crypto with confidence
Download Ledger Live Desktop, pair your Ledger device, and follow security best practices to protect your digital assets while enjoying a modern portfolio and wallet experience.
Download Ledger Live Desktop Security Guidance