Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application for managing your Ledger® hardware wallet. It provides a secure interface between your computer and your Ledger® device, allowing you to manage your cryptocurrency assets while keeping your private keys protected on the hardware wallet.
Unlike web-based interfaces, Ledger Live Desktop operates as a standalone application on your Windows, macOS, or Linux computer, providing enhanced security by minimizing exposure to browser-based threats and phishing attacks.
View all your cryptocurrency holdings in one dashboard with real-time balance tracking, historical charts, and performance analytics.
Send and receive cryptocurrencies with the assurance that all transactions require physical confirmation on your Ledger® device.
Swap cryptocurrencies directly within the app through integrated exchange partners without transferring assets to external platforms.
Earn rewards by staking supported cryptocurrencies directly through Ledger Live Desktop without compromising security.
Install, update, and manage applications for different cryptocurrencies directly on your Ledger® device.
Create and manage multiple accounts for each cryptocurrency, organize your assets, and track transaction histories.
To get started with Ledger Live Desktop, follow these steps:
Security First: Always download Ledger Live Desktop only from the official Ledger.com website to avoid malicious software. Never trust third-party sources for your wallet software.
If you're setting up a new device, begin at Ledger.com/start for guided initialization before using Ledger Live Desktop.
| Feature | Ledger Live Desktop | Ledger Live App (Mobile) |
|---|---|---|
| Full Transaction Capabilities | Yes | Limited (requires device connection) |
| Exchange Integration | Yes | No |
| Staking Services | Yes | No |
| App Management | Yes | No |
| Portfolio Tracking | Yes | Yes |
| Receive Transactions | Yes | Yes |
While the mobile app is convenient for checking balances and receiving funds, Ledger Live Desktop provides the complete functionality for managing your cryptocurrency assets.
Ledger Live Desktop offers several security benefits over web-based interfaces:
The Ledger Live login process remains consistent with Ledger's security model: you authenticate directly on your device rather than entering credentials on your computer.
Is Ledger Live Desktop compatible with all operating systems?
Yes, Ledger Live Desktop is available for Windows (10 and later), macOS (10.14 and later), and Linux (Ubuntu 16.04+, Fedora 30+, or CentOS 8+).
Can I use Ledger Live Desktop without a Ledger® hardware device?
No, Ledger Live Desktop is specifically designed to work with Ledger® hardware wallets. It requires physical connection to your device for all operations involving private keys.
How often should I update Ledger Live Desktop?
You should update Ledger Live Desktop whenever a new version is available. The application will notify you of updates, which often include security enhancements, new features, and support for additional cryptocurrencies.
Can I run Ledger Live Desktop on multiple computers?
Yes, you can install Ledger Live Desktop on multiple computers. Your accounts and transaction history are stored locally on each device, but your assets remain secure on your Ledger® hardware wallet.
What's the difference between Ledger Live Desktop and web-based wallets?
Unlike web-based wallets, Ledger Live Desktop doesn't hold your private keys. It simply provides an interface to manage assets whose keys remain secure on your hardware device. This significantly reduces vulnerability to online attacks.
Does Ledger Live Desktop require an internet connection?
An internet connection is required for most functions like viewing balances, sending transactions, and exchanging cryptocurrencies. However, some features may work offline once initially loaded.