Ledger Live Desktop — Secure Crypto Management

A concise, practical guide to installing, using, and securing Ledger Live on your desktop with best practices, tips, and FAQs.

Introduction

Ledger Live is the official desktop application developed by Ledger that enables you to manage cryptocurrencies stored on your Ledger hardware wallet. Ledger Live acts as the user-facing hub: view balances, send and receive crypto, install app plugins on your device, and connect to DeFi and NFT services through integrated partners.

Why use Ledger Live?

Control and convenience

Ledger Live gives you a single, trusted interface to manage multiple blockchains and accounts. Because keys remain on your hardware device, you benefit from both convenience and the highest level of cold storage security.

Integrated ecosystem

Ledger Live integrates with partner services for staking, swapping, and NFTs, so you can take action without exposing private keys.

Who it's for

Anyone using a Ledger hardware wallet (Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, etc.) who wants a desktop application to monitor portfolio balances, perform transactions, or access Ledger-curated services.

Install & Setup

System requirements

Windows 10 (64-bit) or later, macOS 10.14+, or a modern Linux distribution.
USB port (for Ledger Nano devices) or Bluetooth (for devices that support it).

Download safely

Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website and verify checksums when available. Never accept installation files from unverified emails or third-party sites.

Step-by-step setup

Download the Ledger Live desktop installer.
Install and open the app, then choose Create a new device or Connect an existing Ledger.
Follow on-screen prompts — Ledger Live will instruct you to confirm operations on your hardware wallet.
Add accounts for the blockchains you use (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.) and let Ledger Live synchronize balances.

Tip

Keep your recovery phrase private and never enter it into a computer or browser. Ledger's setup process never asks for your recovery phrase in the desktop app.

Key Features

Portfolio overview

See real-time balances, transaction history, and performance across all your crypto assets inside Ledger Live.

Send & Receive

Compose transactions in Ledger Live, then confirm them physically on your Ledger device — ensuring that signing always happens offline on the hardware.

Manager

Install and uninstall blockchain apps on your Ledger device via the Manager tab in Ledger Live. This is how you enable support for different chains and tokens.

Staking & Swaps

Access Ledger's curated partners to stake assets or swap between tokens without exporting your keys.

Advanced

Use developer tools and integrations for advanced workflows, such as connecting Ledger to external wallets or dApps that support hardware wallet signing.

Security Best Practices

Keep firmware updated

Update your Ledger device firmware only through official channels and verify prompts on the device screen before approving.

Verify downloads

Only download Ledger Live from the official Ledger domain, and verify installer signatures when provided.

Guard your recovery phrase

Your recovery phrase is the master key to your crypto — write it down on the provided recovery sheet and store it offline in a safe place. Never share it or type it into any website, app, or chat.

Recognize scams

Phishing attempts may mimic Ledger emails or sites. Always check the URL, and when in doubt, reach out to Ledger support via official channels.

Integrations & Ecosystem

Ledger Live connects to a growing ecosystem: partner swaps, staking providers, NFT platforms, and developer tools. These integrations allow you to interact with DeFi while keeping custody of your keys on the device.

FAQ — Ledger Live

Do I need a Ledger device to use Ledger Live?: Yes — Ledger Live is designed to work with Ledger hardware wallets. While you can explore the app, signing transactions requires a connected Ledger device.
Can I use Ledger Live on multiple computers?: Yes — you can install Ledger Live on multiple desktops. Accounts are managed locally; resyncing on a new computer requires connecting your Ledger device and re-adding accounts.
What if I lose my Ledger device?: If you lose your device, use your recovery phrase on a new compatible Ledger (or a compatible recovery tool) to restore access to your funds. Do not enter your recovery phrase into unknown websites or apps.
Is Ledger Live open source?: Ledger publishes parts of its code and documentation. Consult the official Ledger developer pages for current information about repositories and licenses.
How do I verify a Ledger Live installer?: Ledger provides installer checksums and verification instructions on its official site. When available, verify signatures or hashes before running the installer.
Can Ledger Live manage NFTs?: Ledger Live supports some NFT workflows and partners; wallet support varies across chains and may require integrated third-party services.
Does Ledger Live store my private keys?: No — Ledger Live never stores private keys. Private keys remain on your Ledger device; Ledger Live only acts as an interface to request signatures which you confirm on device.
How do I stake with Ledger Live?: Staking is offered via Ledger partners in the app. Follow the in-app instructions and verify all transactions on your device before confirming.
What if Ledger Live shows an unexpected balance?: First, ensure your device is connected and unlocked. Resync accounts, check transaction history on a block explorer, and verify you’ve added the correct accounts. If anomalies persist, contact official Ledger support.
Where can I get more help?: Use the Ledger Support Center or the official knowledge base for step-by-step troubleshooting.