Overview
Ledger Live Desktop is a comprehensive application designed to provide you with full control and visibility of your cryptocurrency portfolio when used with Ledger hardware wallets. With support for thousands of crypto assets, Ledger Live Desktop combines ease of use with advanced features ensuring your funds stay safe offline.
Manage your assets, perform transactions, buy or sell currencies, stake tokens, and explore decentralized finance — all from one secure and simple interface.
Essential Features
- Supports over 5000 cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Cardano, and many ERC-20 tokens.
- Hardware wallet supported transaction signing ensuring private keys never leave your Ledger device.
- Buy, sell, swap cryptocurrencies securely within the app through trusted integrations.
- Earn staking rewards on supported coins directly from Ledger Live.
- Real-time portfolio overview with customizable price and market data alerts.
- Multi-account and multi-device synchronization for seamless crypto management.
- NFT management and DeFi dApp access integration.
Ledger Live Desktop is your gateway to safeguarding your digital assets while engaging with the cryptocurrency ecosystem effortlessly.
Installation & Setup
Begin by verifying your computer meets system requirements which include Windows 8.1 or later, macOS Mojave or higher, or compatible Linux distributions. Ensure you have a stable internet connection for software download and updates.
Step 1: Download Ledger Live Desktop
Obtain the official Ledger Live installer from Ledger’s official website, selecting your operating system version.
Step 2: Verify Installer Security
Ledger provides checksums and digital signatures for Ledger Live installers. Verify these to ensure the authenticity of your downloaded software to protect against tampered files.
Step 3: Installation Process
- Windows: Run the downloaded .exe file and follow the user-friendly installation wizard.
- macOS: Open the .dmg file, drag Ledger Live into your Applications folder.
- Linux: Make the AppImage executable (`chmod +x`) and launch it.
Step 4: Initial Launch & Device Connection
Launch Ledger Live and connect your Ledger hardware wallet using USB or Bluetooth (if supported). Unlock your device by entering your PIN directly on the hardware wallet.
Step 5: Complete Setup
- Create a local Ledger Live password to protect app access.
- Install apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage.
- Add or restore accounts to begin managing your assets.
- Apply firmware updates to ensure your device is secure and up to date.
Security & Usage Tips
Ledger Live Desktop uses a hybrid of robust software and hardware security ensuring unparalleled protection for your digital assets.
Private Key Isolation
Your private keys reside exclusively in your Ledger hardware device’s secure element isolated from any external device or internet connection. This prevents remote hacking attempts.
Physical Transaction Confirmation
Any transaction, address book addition, or key operation requires manual approval on your Ledger hardware, ensuring total user control and protection.
Keep Software & Firmware Updated
Regularly update Ledger Live Desktop and your hardware firmware to protect against vulnerabilities and access the latest functionality.
Prevent Phishing & Scams
- Never share your 24-word recovery phrase or PIN with anyone.
- Download Ledger apps only from official Ledger sources.
- Be cautious with emails or websites impersonating Ledger support.
Advanced Security Practices
- Use passphrases to create hidden wallets adding a layer of security.
- Segment assets through multi-account management for organization and safety.
- Use multi-factor authentication and secure your PC/mobile device.
Troubleshooting & Support
If you experience connection issues or software bugs, restart your device and Ledger Live. Visit the Ledger Support site for help and documentation.