Overview — what Ledger Live Desktop does
Ledger Live Desktop is the official application for desktop-based management of cryptocurrency assets. When used with a Ledger Nano device, the software acts as a secure control plane: it prepares transactions, displays balances and portfolio analytics, and then asks your Ledger device to sign any operation. That separation greatly reduces exposure to online threats and gives you a verifiable signing process for each transfer.
Core benefits for professionals and everyday users
Ledger Live Desktop combines enterprise-grade security patterns with a user-friendly interface. It is suitable for individual investors, small teams, and institutional workflows that require clear audit trails and hardware-backed signing.
All private keys remain inside your Ledger device; the desktop app coordinates operations but never stores keys online.
Ledger Live Desktop supports Bitcoin, Ethereum and 5,500+ tokens, making it practical for diversified portfolios.
Exportable logs and device statuses simplify bookkeeping, audits and forensic reviews when needed.
Access vetted staking and DeFi flows while ensuring that all signing is performed on-device for safety.
Quick start — install and secure
Getting started with Ledger Live Desktop is straightforward but requires careful attention to security. Follow the steps below to reduce risk and maintain control over your assets.
Only download Ledger Live Desktop from the official Ledger website. Verify the download checksum when available.
Run the installer on Windows, macOS or Linux and launch the application. Keep your OS updated for best security.
Connect your Ledger hardware wallet via USB and enter your PIN. Confirm firmware updates from the device when prompted.
Add supported accounts within Ledger Live and always confirm transactions on the Ledger device screen before approving.
Security best practices
Protecting your recovery phrase and device is the single most important security step. Store your recovery phrase offline — preferably on non-digital media — and use metal backup solutions for long-term resilience. Regularly check firmware updates and only install packages from the official Ledger source. For high-value or corporate workflows, consider dedicated signing machines and multi-approval procedures.
Frequently asked questions
Can I manage accounts without a Ledger device?
Ledger Live Desktop offers limited read-only views, but full signing and secure management require a compatible Ledger hardware wallet.
What happens if I lose my recovery phrase?
The recovery phrase is the primary method to restore access to your funds. Without it, recovery is generally not possible — store backups securely and consider geographic redundancy.
Ready to get started?
Download Ledger Live Desktop from the official Ledger website, pair it with your Ledger Nano device, and start managing crypto with a security-first workflow. Whether you are securing a personal portfolio or implementing governance for a team, Ledger Live Desktop delivers a clear, auditable approach to desktop crypto management.
Download Ledger Live Desktop