Ledger Live Desktop — Manage your crypto securely and simply

Ledger Live Desktop is a powerful, privacy-first application designed to put full control of your cryptocurrency portfolio on your own machine. Use it to connect Ledger hardware wallets, manage assets, stake supported tokens, buy, swap, and keep an auditable history of all transactions.

What Ledger Live Desktop does

Ledger Live Desktop combines core wallet operations and portfolio management into one desktop app that pairs with Ledger hardware devices. It offers secure transaction signing with an isolated hardware element, asset tracking, built-in exchange integrations, and optional staking features — all without exposing private keys to the internet.

Secure device pairing: Connect your Ledger hardware wallet via USB or Bluetooth for secure transaction signing.
Portfolio view & analytics: See balances, historical performance, and per-asset breakdowns in one place.
Send / Receive: Create and verify transactions using the device for final approval.
Buy & Swap integrations: On-ramp and exchange solutions are available from integrated partners where supported.
Staking & rewards: Delegate supported assets to networks directly through the app to earn rewards without exposing keys.

Quick setup guide

Download & install the official Ledger Live Desktop application from Ledger’s website and verify the checksum if you want to be extra safe.
Open the app and create a new profile or import an existing one. The app will never ask for your recovery phrase — only the device can sign.
Connect your device: Attach your Ledger hardware wallet and unlock it with your PIN. Open the appropriate app (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) on the device when prompted by Ledger Live.
Add accounts: Add accounts for each asset you want to manage. Ledger Live will derive public addresses from the device for display and transaction creation.
Update firmware & apps: Keep the device and Ledger Live up to date to benefit from latest security improvements and coin support.

Note: Ledger Live only generates unsigned transactions locally. Your Ledger device performs the sensitive signing operation inside its secure element, and the signed transaction is sent to the network by the app.

Key security considerations

Private keys never leave the device

All private keys are stored on the Ledger hardware wallet's secure element. Ledger Live crafts transactions but the device performs the final signature.

Never share the recovery phrase

Ledger or Ledger Live will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase. Keep it offline and never upload or type it into software.

Verify addresses on-device

Always confirm receiving addresses on the Ledger device screen to prevent address substitution malware from sending funds to the wrong destination.

Use official sources

Download Ledger Live from the official site and verify signatures/checksums when possible to avoid malicious copies.

Features that power everyday use

Ledger Live Desktop is designed for both beginners and advanced users. It simplifies routine tasks while exposing powerful options for deeper control:

Multi-account management: Create and manage multiple accounts per currency and segregate funds for different purposes.
Transaction history & export: Export CSVs for accounting or tax reporting needs.
Integrated token discovery: Ledger Live detects and displays ERC-20 and other tokens linked to your accounts.
Notifications: Optional alerts for firmware updates or suspicious activity prompts.

Troubleshooting & best practices

If Ledger Live cannot detect your device, try a different USB cable or port and ensure the device is unlocked. Close interfering apps and keep firmware up-to-date. For complex issues, consult the official support resources.

Best practices:

Keep a secure, offline copy of your recovery phrase in a safe place.
Use a dedicated, minimally provisioned computer for large holdings when feasible.
Double-check amounts and addresses on the device before confirming.
Regularly update Ledger Live and hardware firmware for security patches.

Who should use Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop fits anyone who wants to control private keys while using a friendly desktop interface — from first-time holders who value clear guidance to active traders and long-term holders who need robust account management and exportable records.

Privacy & data handling

Ledger Live stores non-sensitive configuration and account metadata locally. Public addresses and signed transactions are broadcast to the network. Avoid exposing personal metadata if privacy is a concern — for example, consider separate accounts for different activities.

Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for educational purposes and does not constitute financial, legal, or security advice. Using hardware wallets and software involves risk. Always verify software downloads from official sources and consult professional advice if necessary. Ledger Live and Ledger hardware provide technical mechanisms for securing private keys, but no system is immune to user error. You are responsible for your own keys and funds.