What is Ledger Live Desktop?
Ledger Live Desktop is the powerful, official desktop wallet software from Ledger that lets you manage your entire crypto portfolio with confidence and ease. As part of the Ledger ecosystem, it pairs with your Ledger hardware device to keep your private keys offline while giving you full access and control via a desktop interface.
Whether you hold Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, or many altcoins and tokens, Ledger Live Desktop allows you to send, receive, stake, swap, and monitor all assets in a unified space. The app is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, and you can always download it from the official link at Ledger.com/start.
By combining Ledger Live Desktop with a Ledger hardware wallet, you get the best of both worlds: user-friendly software and the highest level of offline security. This makes it ideal for power users, traders, and long-term holders alike.
Key Features & Capabilities
Unified Portfolio Dashboard
View all your accounts and assets across multiple blockchains in one intuitive dashboard — track performance, allocations, and history at a glance.
Send & Receive Crypto
Seamlessly send or receive supported cryptocurrencies with built-in address verification. Transaction details always require approval on your Ledger device.
Staking & Earn Rewards
Stake supported assets (e.g. ETH, SOL, DOT) directly in Ledger Live Desktop to earn rewards while keeping your keys safe offline.
Swap & Exchange
Swap coins and tokens directly within Ledger Live Desktop using integrated service providers without needing to leave the app.
Manage Multiple Devices
Support multiple Ledger hardware devices from one software installation — ideal for users with multiple wallets or backup devices.
Portfolio Insights & Analytics
Access price charts, market trends, token breakdowns, and insights to help optimize your holdings and plan strategically.
Security: Your Keys, Your Control
One of the major strengths of **Ledger Live Desktop** is that it never stores your private keys or seed phrase — those remain securely inside your Ledger hardware wallet. All sensitive operations require device confirmation.
- Offline Key Storage: Private keys never leave your hardware device, even when using the desktop app.
- Explicit Signing: Transactions and actions are only executed after you physically confirm them on your Ledger device.
- Encrypted Communication: Ledger Live and your device communicate via encrypted channels to prevent tampering.
- Firmware & App Updates: You can safely update firmware and app versions directly in Ledger Live Desktop, ensuring you always run the latest security patches.
The software is non‑custodial — meaning Ledger Live Desktop is only an interface. You retain full ownership and control of your crypto at all times. Always download the app from the official Ledger site or Ledger.com/start to avoid phishing threats.
How to Set Up Ledger Live Desktop
Follow these steps to get Ledger Live Desktop installed and connected to your Ledger device:
- Download the installer: Visit the official site at Ledger.com/start and download the desktop version for your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux).
- Install & open: Run the installer, then launch Ledger Live Desktop.
- Set up your device: Connect your Ledger hardware, initialize it if new (set PIN, generate recovery phrase) or restore from backup.
- Install crypto apps: In Ledger Live Desktop's Manager, install apps for the coins you wish to manage (e.g. Bitcoin, Ethereum).
- Add accounts: Add blockchain accounts to reflect your holdings; label them for clarity.
- Start managing: Use send, receive, staking, swap, and portfolio features — always confirm transactions via device.
Once set up, Ledger Live Desktop keeps your portfolio in sync, and you can optionally link with Ledger Live Mobile for on-the-go viewing (while keeping transaction actions anchored to the desktop + device pair).
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Ledger Live Desktop free?
Yes — the software is free to download and use. You only pay network fees for transactions. - Can I use Ledger Live Desktop without a hardware wallet?
You can explore some UI, but full crypto operations require a Ledger hardware device to sign. - Does desktop and mobile version sync?
Yes — you can export accounts from desktop via QR code and import into Ledger Live Mobile for read-only access, while transactions remain device‑verified. - How many crypto assets can it support?
Ledger Live Desktop supports thousands of coins and tokens via native apps and integrations. - What do I do if the software says “No Device Detected”?
Restart Ledger Live, ensure your device is connected and unlocked, check USB cable/port, or reinstall drivers.
Start Controlling Your Crypto Portfolio Today
Don’t fragment your crypto experience. Download **Ledger Live Desktop** for full portfolio control, combined with Ledger's top-tier device security. Visit Ledger.com/start to download and begin your secure crypto journey.
Download Ledger Live Desktop