Ledger Live Desktop is the comprehensive desktop application that serves as the primary interface for managing your Ledger® hardware wallet ecosystem. This sophisticated software provides a secure, feature-rich environment for cryptocurrency management, combining enterprise-grade security with an intuitive user experience across Windows, macOS, and Linux platforms.
Unlike web-based interfaces or mobile applications, Ledger Live Desktop offers the complete suite of cryptocurrency management tools in a native desktop environment. The application establishes direct USB communication with your hardware wallet, eliminating browser-based vulnerabilities and providing enhanced security features unavailable in other platforms.
Comprehensive portfolio tracking with real-time valuation, interactive performance charts, detailed asset allocation, and historical transaction analytics across all your cryptocurrency holdings.
Integrated cryptocurrency exchange functionality through trusted partners, allowing seamless asset swaps directly within the application without exposing your private keys to third-party platforms.
Earn passive income by participating in proof-of-stake networks directly through Ledger Live Desktop, with support for multiple cryptocurrencies and transparent reward tracking.
Begin with the official Ledger Live download from the Ledger website. Select the version for your operating system and follow the installation wizard to set up the application on your computer.
If this is your first Ledger® device, visit Ledger.com/start to initialize your hardware wallet. This process includes firmware installation, recovery phrase generation, and PIN setup.
Connect your Ledger® device and perform the Ledger Live Login process by entering your PIN directly on the hardware device. The desktop application establishes a secure communication channel.
Add cryptocurrency accounts and install necessary applications on your device. Ledger Live Desktop manages the entire process while maintaining security isolation.
The Ledger Live Login process on desktop requires physical device connection and PIN entry directly on your hardware wallet. All sensitive operations, including transactions and account management, require physical confirmation on the device, ensuring that even if your computer is compromised, your funds remain secure within the hardware isolation.
Ledger Live Desktop supports Windows 10+, macOS 10.14+, and Linux (Ubuntu 18.04+). The application requires 4GB RAM minimum (8GB recommended), 200MB storage space, and a USB port for device connection. Internet connection is required for initial setup, updates, and portfolio synchronization.
No, Ledger Live Desktop is specifically designed to work with Ledger® hardware wallets. The application requires a connected hardware device to function, as it relies on the secure element for all private key operations and transaction signing. This design ensures your keys never leave the hardware environment.
Ledger Live Desktop offers complete functionality including advanced portfolio management, staking, exchange features, and full device management. The Ledger Live App provides mobile convenience with portfolio viewing and receiving capabilities but has limited features. Desktop offers superior security through direct USB communication.
Your private keys and sensitive data remain exclusively on your hardware wallet. Portfolio data and transaction information are stored locally on your computer, with blockchain data fetched from decentralized nodes. Ledger doesn't have access to your funds or private information, maintaining true self-custody.
Yes, you can install and use Ledger Live Desktop on multiple computers. Each installation will require device connection and the Ledger login process. Your wallet data synchronizes across installations through the blockchain, but all sensitive operations require physical device confirmation for security.
Regular updates are crucial for security and new features. Ledger Live Desktop typically notifies you when updates are available. We recommend updating promptly to ensure you have the latest security patches, new cryptocurrency support, and improved functionality. Updates maintain compatibility with your Ledger Live wallet ecosystem.