Introduction

Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application that pairs with Ledger hardware wallets to manage digital assets while keeping private keys offline. The app consolidates balances, transaction history, staking and swap functionality, and firmware & app management for your Ledger device — so you interact with blockchains confidently while sensitive operations remain on your device.

Download Ledger Live (placeholder)

Always download Ledger software from the official Ledger website or authorized sources.

What is Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop is a local application for managing crypto assets that requires a Ledger hardware wallet (for signing transactions and holding private keys). It acts as a user-friendly interface that reads public blockchain data to display balances and histories, while the hardware wallet performs all signing operations inside its secure element.

Getting started — Step by step

Download: Visit the official Ledger download page and choose the Desktop installer for your OS.
Install: Run the installer and follow on-screen prompts. Verify the installer checksum where available.
Initialize device: Set up a new Ledger device or restore from your recovery phrase directly on the device; never enter your seed into a computer or website.
Open Ledger Live: Launch the app, connect your Ledger device by USB (or Bluetooth for supported devices), and follow the onboarding wizard.
Add accounts: Add cryptocurrency accounts inside the app to view balances and activity.
Approve transactions: Create transactions in the app, then physically confirm them on your device to complete the operation.

Tip: Keep firmware and app components up to date and never share your recovery phrase with anyone.

Core features

Portfolio

Unified view of wallet balances, historical performance and token breakdown across supported blockchains.

Send & receive

Create, review and approve transactions securely using your hardware device for signing.

Manager

Install or update blockchain-specific apps on your Ledger hardware to support new coins and tokens.

Buy & Swap

Access integrated third-party providers to buy crypto or swap assets from within the app (fees apply).

Staking

Stake supported assets without exposing keys — delegations are confirmed and signed on your device.

Security checks

Firmware alerts, app integrity checks, and device confirmations help you avoid tampered software.

Trust & security

Ledger’s security model places private keys inside the hardware device's secure element; Ledger Live never exports those keys. Always prefer official downloads, enable firmware updates when available, and use only trusted services integrated in the app. Be vigilant for phishing and fake installers — Ledger publishes guidance and support to help distinguish official software from fraudulent copies.

Hardware key isolation

User-controlled backup

Open-source components

FAQs

Q1: Is Ledger Live free?

A1: Yes — Ledger Live Desktop is free to download and use. Third-party providers inside the app may charge fees for swaps or purchases.

Q2: Can I use Ledger Live without a Ledger device?

A2: You can install the app, but full functionality — signing transactions & securing keys — requires a Ledger hardware wallet.

Q3: How do I update my device firmware?

A3: Ledger Live notifies you when firmware updates are available; follow the app instructions and confirm updates on your device.

Q4: What if I lose my device?

A4: If you have your recovery phrase (seed), you can restore your accounts to another compatible device. Keep the seed stored offline and safe.

Q5: Where do I get official support?

A5: Use Ledger's official support center and knowledge base. Never share your recovery phrase with support or anyone else.

Q6: How does Ledger Live show my transactions?

A6: Ledger Live reads public blockchain data and APIs to present balances & history; the transactions themselves live on their respective blockchains.

Disclaimer

This page provides an informational, unique overview for educational purposes. Always download Ledger Live from official Ledger resources, verify installers where possible, and perform independent research before transacting. We are not financial advisors and are not responsible for investment decisions or funds lost through misuse or fraud.