Ledger® Live: Desktop® — Getting Started
Managing crypto securely doesn’t have to be complicated. Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application from Ledger, designed to help users manage digital assets safely while keeping private keys offline. Whether you’re new to crypto or transitioning from a mobile wallet, this guide will walk you through getting started with Ledger Live Desktop and understanding its core features.
What Is Ledger Live Desktop?
Ledger Live Desktop is a secure crypto management interface that works alongside Ledger hardware wallets such as Ledger Nano X and Ledger Nano S Plus. Unlike web wallets, Ledger Live never exposes your private keys to the internet. All sensitive operations are verified directly on your hardware device, offering industry-leading protection.
With Ledger Live Desktop, you can:
- Track your crypto portfolio in real time
- Send and receive supported cryptocurrencies
- Install and manage apps on your Ledger device
- Stake, swap, and buy crypto (depending on region)
For users prioritizing long-term security, Ledger Live Desktop provides a reliable and user-friendly environment.
How to Download and Install Ledger Live Desktop
Getting started is simple:
- Visit the official Ledger website and download Ledger Live Desktop for Windows, macOS, or Linux.
- Install the application and launch it on your computer.
- Choose “Get Started” and select your Ledger hardware wallet model.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to connect and verify your device.
Security tip: Always download Ledger Live Desktop from the official Ledger website to avoid phishing or fake software.
For a more detailed walkthrough, see our guide on installing Ledger Live Desktop securely (internal link).
Setting Up Your Ledger Device with Ledger Live Desktop
Once installed, Ledger Live Desktop will guide you through pairing your hardware wallet. This includes:
- Initializing a new device or restoring an existing wallet
- Verifying the device’s authenticity
- Setting up a PIN and recovery phrase
Ledger Live Desktop never stores your recovery phrase—this step happens entirely on the device screen. After setup, you can begin installing crypto apps directly from Ledger Live Desktop.
Learn more in our article: How Ledger Live Desktop works with hardware wallets (internal link).
Managing Crypto Accounts and Portfolio
After setup, you can add accounts for supported cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and many others. Ledger Live Desktop automatically synchronizes balances while keeping transactions secure.
The portfolio dashboard allows you to:
- View total holdings and asset allocation
- Monitor price changes over time
- Review transaction history
This makes Ledger Live Desktop ideal for users who want both transparency and strong security in one interface.
Sending, Receiving, and Staking Crypto
Ledger Live Desktop makes everyday crypto actions straightforward:
- Receive crypto: Generate verified wallet addresses on your device.
- Send crypto: Confirm transaction details directly on the hardware wallet.
- Stake assets: Earn rewards on supported cryptocurrencies without giving up custody.
Each transaction requires physical confirmation on your Ledger device, adding an extra layer of protection against malware.
For step-by-step instructions, read sending and receiving crypto with Ledger Live Desktop (internal link).
Why Choose Ledger Live Desktop?
Compared to browser-based wallets, Ledger Live Desktop offers:
- Offline private key storage
- Hardware-level transaction verification
- Regular security updates from Ledger
- A unified dashboard for long-term portfolio management
It’s especially suitable for users managing significant holdings or planning to hold crypto over extended periods.
Final Thoughts
Ledger Live Desktop is more than just a portfolio tracker—it’s a secure command center for your digital assets. By combining ease of use with hardware-grade security, it empowers users to manage crypto confidently from their desktop environment.