Ledger Live &Desktop — Getting Started - Official Ledger Wallet
Ledger Live Desktop: Your Secure Crypto Hub
Ledger Live Desktop is the official application you install on your computer to manage your Ledger hardware wallet. It serves as the primary interface for securely controlling your cryptocurrencies, offering advanced functionality compared to mobile versions, while keeping your private keys offline.
When you start your Ledger device via Ledger.com/Start, you’ll be guided to download Ledger Live Desktop for Windows, macOS, or Linux. Using the desktop app ensures maximum security and full access to all Ledger features.
Key Features of Ledger Live Desktop
- Full Device Setup
Ledger Live Desktop is used during the initial onboarding to initialize your Ledger device, set up your PIN, and generate your 24-word recovery phrase. The desktop environment ensures a secure connection and reduces exposure to mobile vulnerabilities or phishing attacks. - Multi-Crypto Management
Install apps for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of other cryptocurrencies directly through Ledger Live Desktop. Each blockchain app runs on your Ledger device, while the desktop app displays your balances, sends transactions, and monitors your accounts safely. - Portfolio Overview and Tracking
View all your crypto holdings in one dashboard. Ledger Live Desktop provides detailed portfolio tracking, historical charts, and real-time price updates so you can manage your investments effectively. - Buy, Sell, and Swap Cryptocurrencies
Through integrated partner services, Ledger Live Desktop allows you to buy crypto with your card or bank transfer, sell assets, or swap between coins—all while keeping private keys secure on your Ledger device. - Firmware Updates
Ledger Live Desktop automatically checks for firmware updates for your Ledger hardware. Updating via the desktop app ensures your device is running the latest security patches and features. - Secure Offline Transactions
Ledger Live Desktop ensures that sensitive operations, such as signing transactions, occur entirely on your Ledger device. Your private keys never leave the device, keeping your assets safe from malware or hacking attempts. - NFT and Token Management
Manage NFTs and tokens directly through Ledger Live Desktop. You can view your NFT collection, send and receive tokens, and interact with supported decentralized apps securely.
Why Ledger Live Desktop is Essential
While mobile apps provide convenience, Ledger Live Desktop is the recommended choice for the most secure and comprehensive crypto management experience. During the official onboarding at Ledger.com/Start, using the desktop version ensures you are installing the correct software, initializing your device safely, and following Ledger’s official security protocols.
Ledger Live Desktop also allows advanced features not available on mobile, including batch operations, multiple account management, and firmware updates, making it the go-to interface for long-term crypto management.
Getting Started
- Go to Ledger.com/Start and download Ledger Live Desktop for your operating system.
- Open the app and connect your Ledger hardware wallet.
- Follow the step-by-step instructions to set up your PIN and recovery phrase.
- Install blockchain apps, manage assets, and explore Ledger Live Desktop’s full functionality.