Ledger® Live: Desktop | Getting started with Ledger

Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application developed by Ledger SAS for managing Ledger hardware wallets like the Nano S Plus, Nano X, and Ledger Stax. It provides a secure, user-friendly interface that enables users to send, receive, buy, sell, stake, and manage thousands of cryptocurrencies. Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, Ledger Live Desktop is designed to put users in full control of their digital assets while keeping their private keys offline and secure.

What Is Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop is a non-custodial wallet interface that connects to your Ledger hardware device. It doesn’t store your assets or private keys. Instead, it allows you to view balances, track your portfolio, and sign blockchain transactions—all while your private keys remain safely stored inside your Ledger device.

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced crypto holder, Ledger Live Desktop offers powerful tools in a clean and intuitive interface.

Key Features

🔐 Secure Access

Ledger Live works only when a Ledger device is connected and unlocked using a PIN code. All sensitive actions, including sending transactions or managing crypto apps, must be confirmed on the device itself. This hardware-based security ensures that even if your computer is compromised, your crypto remains safe.

📊 Portfolio Management

Ledger Live Desktop provides a detailed overview of your holdings:

• Real-time portfolio balance
• Coin-by-coin breakdown
• Historical performance tracking
• Transaction history for each account

This makes it easy to monitor your crypto investments from one unified dashboard.

💱 Send, Receive, Buy, and Swap

•  Send & receive: Easily manage inbound and outbound crypto transfers.
•  Buy & sell: Integrated partners (like MoonPay and Coinify) allow users to purchase crypto directly within the app.
•  Swap: Exchange one crypto for another without leaving Ledger Live, thanks to integrated DEX partners.

🔄 App and Account Management

Ledger Live lets you:

•  Install apps for different cryptocurrencies directly on your Ledger device
• Create and manage multiple accounts per asset
• Add custom tokens or accounts
• Connect to Ethereum and EVM-compatible networks

💸 Staking and Earning

Ledger Live supports staking for several popular coins such as Ethereum, Solana, Tezos, and Polkadot. This allows users to earn rewards directly within the app while maintaining full custody of their assets.

Security Benefits

•  Offline private key storage: Keys never leave your Ledger hardware wallet
•  PIN protection: Prevents unauthorized access to the device
•  Genuine device check: Ledger Live verifies device authenticity
•  Automatic software and firmware updates: Keeps your setup secure and up to date

Installation and Use

1.  Download Ledger Live Desktop from ledger.com/ledger-live
2. Install the software on your computer (Windows/macOS/Linux)
3. Connect your Ledger device via USB or Bluetooth (Nano X)
4. Open the app and follow the instructions to set up or access your wallet

Conclusion

Ledger Live Desktop is the central hub for managing your crypto portfolio in a secure, efficient, and user-controlled environment. It leverages the security of Ledger hardware wallets and combines it with a modern interface for asset management, staking, and blockchain interactions. With full offline key protection and ongoing feature updates, Ledger Live Desktop is a top choice for those serious about self-custody and long-term crypto security.