Comprehensive guide to managing your cryptocurrency securely on your computer
Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application for Ledger hardware wallets, allowing users to securely manage cryptocurrency assets from their Windows, macOS, or Linux computers. Ledger Live Desktop integrates directly with your Ledger hardware wallet to provide secure, offline storage for your private keys while giving you full control of transactions, portfolio tracking, and crypto management.
Unlike online wallets or exchange accounts, Ledger Live Desktop ensures that private keys remain offline and never exposed to the internet, protecting your funds from phishing attacks, malware, and unauthorized access.
Ledger Live Desktop allows users to manage multiple cryptocurrencies from one platform. You can track balances, transaction histories, and detailed performance metrics for your assets.
Send and receive digital assets directly through Ledger Live Desktop. Every transaction must be verified on your Ledger device, ensuring the authenticity and integrity of each transfer.
Ledger Live Desktop integrates with verified third-party partners to allow users to buy, sell, and exchange crypto seamlessly while keeping private keys secure.
Ledger Live Desktop supports staking for various Proof-of-Stake cryptocurrencies, allowing users to earn rewards securely from their holdings.
Install and manage blockchain apps for different cryptocurrencies on your Ledger device directly through Ledger Live Desktop, enabling support for a wide variety of coins and tokens.
Download Ledger Live Desktop from the official Ledger website and follow the installation instructions for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
Connect your Ledger Nano S, Nano X, or other Ledger device via USB. Ledger Live Desktop will detect the device automatically.
If setting up a new device, create a new wallet, generate a secure 24-word recovery phrase, and set a PIN code. Ledger Live Desktop guides you step by step to ensure proper setup.
Add accounts for each cryptocurrency you wish to manage. Confirm each account on your Ledger device to ensure security. Ledger Live Desktop allows multiple accounts for the same coin for advanced management.
To send crypto, select the account, enter the recipient address and amount, and confirm the transaction directly on your device. Verification on the device prevents phishing attacks.
Generate a receiving address in Ledger Live Desktop and verify it on your device. Share this verified address for safe transfers.
Your Ledger device is protected by a PIN, which must be entered each time you connect the device. The PIN keypad is randomized to prevent keyloggers from capturing your input.
The 24-word recovery phrase is your ultimate backup. Store it securely offline, and never share it online. Ledger Live Desktop requires this phrase for wallet recovery if the device is lost or stolen.
Ledger Live Desktop verifies that your device firmware is authentic and untampered. Only install firmware updates through Ledger Live Desktop to maintain security.
Advanced users can enable passphrase-protected wallets, creating additional hidden wallets. Even if the recovery phrase is known, a passphrase provides extra security.
Ledger Live Desktop allows staking for PoS coins such as Tezos, Tron, and Cosmos, enabling users to earn passive rewards while keeping their assets secure on the hardware wallet.
Ledger Live Desktop provides detailed analytics, including balance history, asset performance, and percentage gains or losses.
Ledger Live Desktop supports integration with select DeFi platforms, allowing users to interact securely without exposing private keys. Token management and app installation are handled directly through the software.
Ledger Live Desktop can notify you about incoming transactions, firmware updates, or staking rewards, keeping your crypto management proactive and secure.
Check USB connections, try another cable or port, and ensure Ledger Live Desktop is up-to-date.
Reset the Ledger device and restore it using the 24-word recovery phrase to regain access to your wallets.
Restart Ledger Live Desktop, reconnect your device, and verify your internet connection. Clear the cache if necessary.
Ensure there is sufficient storage on your device and that firmware is updated before installing apps for different cryptocurrencies.
Ledger Live Desktop, combined with Ledger hardware wallets, provides a secure, transparent, and user-friendly platform for cryptocurrency management. It ensures private keys remain offline, provides advanced features like staking and portfolio insights, and protects against phishing and malware attacks.
By following recommended setup procedures, security practices, and using Ledger Live Desktop responsibly, users can confidently manage, send, receive, and stake cryptocurrencies while maintaining full control of their digital assets.