Ledger Live®® Desktop — Getting Started | Official Ledger Wallet

Managing cryptocurrency safely requires a reliable and secure interface. Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application by Ledger, designed to give users full control over their digital assets while keeping private keys offline.

What Is Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop is a native application for Windows, macOS, and Linux that serves as the central hub for interacting with your Ledger hardware wallet. Unlike browser-based solutions, the desktop app minimizes exposure to online threats and provides a stable, secure environment for crypto management.

Key Features

Portfolio Management: Monitor balances and transaction history across multiple accounts and cryptocurrencies.

Secure Sending and Receiving: Transactions must be confirmed on the physical device, ensuring private keys never leave the hardware wallet.

Firmware Updates: Keep your Ledger device up to date directly through the app.

Multi-Account Support: Manage different cryptocurrency accounts efficiently in one interface.

Enhanced Security

Ledger Live Desktop emphasizes privacy and security:

PIN-protected hardware wallet confirmation

Optional passphrase for hidden wallets

Encrypted communications with Ledger devices

Device authenticity verification

By keeping sensitive operations offline, the desktop app ensures that private keys remain safe even if your computer is compromised.

Installation and Setup

Download Ledger Live Desktop from the official Ledger.com/start® portal.

Install the application on your computer.

Connect your Ledger device via USB.

Follow the setup instructions, including firmware installation and wallet creation.

Why Choose Desktop Over Web

The desktop version provides additional protection against browser-based attacks, making it ideal for long-term users managing significant crypto holdings. It also ensures smoother performance and direct integration with your hardware wallet.

Conclusion

Ledger Live Desktop is the cornerstone of secure cryptocurrency management. By combining hardware wallet protection with a trusted desktop interface, it allows users to confidently manage, send, and receive crypto assets. For anyone serious about self-custody, Ledger Live Desktop offers the safest and most reliable management environment.