Ledger Live Desktop
Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application developed by Ledger, designed to work with Ledger hardware wallets such as the Ledger Nano X, Nano S, and Nano S Plus. It enables users to securely manage their cryptocurrency assets directly from their computer while ensuring that private keys never leave the hardware wallet.
Purpose of Ledger Live Desktop
Ledger Live Desktop provides a secure and user-friendly interface that allows users to:
- Set up their Ledger device
- Install or remove blockchain applications
- Send and receive cryptocurrencies
- Track portfolio performance
- Access services like staking, swapping, and NFT management
- Update firmware and device security
It functions as a local application, meaning it runs on your computer without exposing private keys or sensitive data to the internet.
Main Features
1. Multi-Asset Management
Ledger Live supports more than 5,000 crypto assets, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), XRP, and ERC-20 tokens. Users can manage multiple cryptocurrencies and wallets within one unified dashboard.
2. Secure Transactions
All transactions must be confirmed manually on your physical Ledger hardware wallet. This means your private keys never leave the device, protecting you from remote attacks or malware.
3. Real-Time Portfolio Monitoring
Ledger Live Desktop displays an overview of your crypto holdings, including current market values, performance history, and transaction records.
4. App Management
The app allows you to install or uninstall supported blockchain apps on your Ledger device. Each coin or token you manage typically requires a corresponding app to be installed.
5. Staking and Earning
Users can stake supported coins like Ethereum, Polkadot, Tezos, and more directly through Ledger Live, earning rewards while maintaining full control over their keys.
6. Built-In Swap and Buy Options
Ledger Live includes integration with trusted third-party services to allow users to buy, sell, and swap cryptocurrencies within the application.
7. NFT Support
Users can view and manage Ethereum-based NFTs securely within the Ledger Live interface.
System Requirements
To use Ledger Live Desktop, you need:
- Windows: 10 or higher (64-bit)
- macOS: 10.15 (Catalina) or higher
- Linux: Ubuntu 20.04 or higher
- Minimum screen resolution: 1024 x 768
Security and Access
Ledger Live Desktop does not use email/password logins. Instead, access is protected through the physical Ledger device and your PIN code. All sensitive operations—like signing transactions or recovering a wallet—must be manually approved on the hardware device.
There is no cloud account, no online login, and no ability to access your wallet without the device itself.
Disclaimer
Ledger Live Desktop is a secure interface but does not store or manage your recovery phrase, private keys, or PIN. Your Ledger hardware wallet is the only place where these credentials reside. You are solely responsible for:
- Storing your 24-word recovery phrase safely and offline
- Never sharing your recovery phrase with anyone, including Ledger
- Ensuring your device is kept safe and used only on trusted computers
If your recovery phrase is lost or compromised, Ledger cannot help recover your funds. Ledger will never ask you for your recovery phrase. Always use the official Ledger Live app downloaded from Ledger’s official website.
Conclusion
Ledger Live Desktop offers a secure, convenient, and powerful way to manage cryptocurrency portfolios. It is ideal for both beginners and advanced users who prioritize security and self-custody. Combined with a Ledger hardware wallet, it delivers one of the safest environments for managing digital assets today.