What is Ledger Live Desktop?
Ledger Live Desktop is the official software for managing your crypto assets directly from your computer using Ledger hardware wallets (Ledger Nano X, Nano S Plus). It provides a unified interface for buying, swapping, staking, and tracking digital assets while ensuring your private keys remain offline.
1. How to Download Ledger Live Desktop
- Visit ledger.com/ledger-live or Ledger.com/Start.
- Choose your OS (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
- Download the official installer and verify the signature if prompted.
- Install Ledger Live Desktop following on-screen instructions.
Tip: Always download Ledger Live from official sources to avoid phishing or fake versions.
2. Connect Your Ledger Device
Once installed, connect your Ledger Nano X or Nano S Plus via USB or Bluetooth (Nano X only).
- Open Ledger Live → Click “Get Started”.
- Select your device model and follow setup prompts.
- Create a PIN and record your recovery phrase safely.
- Ledger Live will verify device authenticity automatically.
3. Manage Your Accounts in Ledger Live
Ledger Live Desktop allows you to manage multiple cryptocurrencies in one place:
- Add Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other supported crypto accounts.
- Send and receive transactions securely using your Ledger hardware wallet.
- Use the Swap and Buy/Sell features directly within the app.
- Track live portfolio balance, historical performance, and staking rewards.
4. Enable Security & Firmware Updates
Security is the foundation of Ledger Live. After installation, enable the following settings:
- PIN Protection: Always set a secure PIN on your Ledger device.
- Recovery Phrase Backup: Keep your 24-word seed phrase written down and stored safely offline.
- Firmware Updates: Check “Manager” → Update firmware to ensure your device stays up to date.
- Password Lock: Add an app password for Ledger Live Desktop.
5. Troubleshooting Ledger Live Desktop
- Restart your computer and reconnect your device.
- Ensure Ledger Live is updated to the latest version.
- Reinstall Ledger Live Desktop if the app doesn’t open.
- Visit Ledger Support for device detection or connectivity issues.
If Ledger Live cannot detect your device, try a new USB cable or a different port.
Frequently Asked Questions — Ledger Live Desktop
A: Yes. Ledger Live Desktop is official software developed by Ledger SAS. Your private keys never leave the hardware wallet.
A: Use only https://ledger.com/start or ledger.com/ledger-live.
A: Yes. Ledger Live Mobile is available for iOS and Android via App Store and Google Play.
A: Open Ledger Live → Settings → Check for Updates. Always restart after updating.
A: Ledger Live Desktop runs on Windows 10+, macOS 11+, and most Linux distributions.