Ledger® Live: Desktop® — Getting™ Started | Official Desktop App
Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application from Ledger designed to securely manage your cryptocurrency portfolio when paired with a Ledger hardware wallet. It acts as your central hub for tracking balances, sending and receiving crypto, staking assets, managing NFTs, and keeping your Ledger device up to date — all while ensuring your private keys remain safely stored on your hardware wallet. You can download Ledger Live Desktop only from the official Ledger download and setup portal at https://ledger.com/start to avoid fake installers or phishing scams. Ledger+1
What Is Ledger Live Desktop?
Ledger Live Desktop refers specifically to the desktop version of the Ledger Live application — Ledger’s official software for interacting with your Ledger hardware wallet on a computer. It provides a rich suite of features that lets you manage your crypto assets securely and conveniently. Ledger
Unlike online or browser‑based wallets where private keys may be exposed to internet risks, Ledger’s security model keeps your private keys isolated inside the secure element chip of your Ledger hardware device. Ledger Live Desktop builds transactions on your computer, but every critical action is authorized directly on the hardware wallet itself. Ledger
To start with Ledger Live Desktop safely, always visit https://ledger.com/start, Ledger’s official onboarding and download page, which ensures you get the legitimate software for your operating system. ledger-com-about.framer.ai
Why Ledger Live Desktop Matters
1. Security You Can Trust
The standout feature of Ledger Live Desktop is that it never stores your private keys on your computer. Instead, your private keys remain safely tucked inside your Ledger hardware wallet (e.g., Ledger Nano X, Ledger Nano S Plus). This design dramatically reduces the risk of theft through malware or phishing attacks because signing transactions always requires physically confirming them on the device. Ledger
Additionally, Ledger’s official setup portal at https://ledger.com/start guides you to download Ledger Live Desktop securely. This helps protect you from fake installers and scam sites that impersonate the app — a common tactic used by scammers in the crypto ecosystem. ledger-com-about.framer.ai
Core Features of Ledger Live Desktop
📊 Portfolio Tracking
Ledger Live Desktop provides an intuitive dashboard where you can view the real‑time value and performance of your crypto assets across all linked accounts. It supports hundreds of tokens and blockchains, giving you a consolidated portfolio view in one place. Ledger
🔐 Secure Transactions
Whether you’re sending or receiving crypto, Ledger Live Desktop ensures every transaction is securely signed on your hardware wallet. You initiate the transaction in the app on your desktop, and then confirm it on the device itself, ensuring no sensitive data is exposed. Ledger
🛠 Device Management
Through Ledger Live Desktop, you can install blockchain‑specific applications on your Ledger device and update the device firmware. This ensures your hardware stays up to date with the latest security patches and features. Ledger
💱 Buy, Swap & Stake
Inside Ledger Live Desktop, you can access integrated partner services for buying and swapping crypto assets. It also supports staking for select proof‑of‑stake networks, letting you earn rewards directly through the app while maintaining custody of your funds. Ledger
🖼 NFT Support
If you hold NFTs, Ledger Live Desktop lets you view and manage compatible collections on supported blockchains. Your NFTs remain secure, with ownership validated through your Ledger device. Ledger
How to Download Ledger Live Desktop Safely
Because cryptocurrency wallet software is a common target for phishing and malware, you must download Ledger Live Desktop only from the official Ledger site:
👉 Download link: https://ledger.com/start — This official Ledger portal guides you through selecting the correct Ledger hardware you own and provides secure download links for Ledger Live Desktop for Windows, macOS, and Linux. ledger-com-about.framer.ai
Once on the page:
- Choose your Ledger device model (like Ledger Nano X or Ledger Nano S Plus).
- The guided setup will show official download options for Ledger Live Desktop for your operating system.
- Install the software and open it.
- Connect your Ledger hardware wallet via USB when prompted.
- Follow the on‑screen steps to manage assets and complete your setup.
This process ensures you’re using the authentic Ledger Live app and not a malicious imitation. ledger-com-about.framer.ai
Security Best Practices with Ledger Live Desktop
✔ Always Use Official Links
Never download Ledger Live Desktop from search engine ads, emails, social media links, or unofficial websites. The only safe source is the official Ledger setup portal at https://ledger.com/start. ledger-com-about.framer.ai
✔ Never Share Your 24‑Word Recovery Phrase
Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase online, in the app, or via email. Your recovery phrase is the master key to your wallet — keep it offline and secure. ledger-com-about.framer.ai
✔ Confirm All Actions On‑Device
All sensitive operations — like sending crypto, installing apps, or updating firmware — must be confirmed on your Ledger device’s screen. This protects you even if your computer is compromised. Ledger
✔ Keep Software Updated
Use Ledger Live Desktop to install official firmware updates for your hardware wallet and stay on the latest release of the app. Official updates often include security enhancements and support for new assets. Ledger
Common Misconceptions
❓ Can I Use Ledger Live Desktop Without a Ledger Hardware Wallet?
You can install the desktop app without a device, but it won’t allow secure sending or staking of crypto. The full security model of Ledger Live Desktop relies on interaction with a Ledger hardware wallet. Ledger
❓ Is Ledger Live Desktop Free?
Yes. Ledger Live Desktop is free to download and use. Blockchain network fees still apply when sending transactions, and optional third‑party services (like buy/swap partners) may charge fees. Ledger
Conclusion
Ledger Live Desktop is the cornerstone software for users of Ledger hardware wallets, offering secure, feature‑rich tools for managing cryptocurrency portfolios. Its design ensures private keys stay offline, and transactions are approved only on your hardware device — providing high security without compromising usability. To stay safe, always download Ledger Live Desktop from the official Ledger setup page at https://ledger.com/start and follow Ledger’s recommended security practices. ledger-com-about.framer.ai
Whether you’re tracking assets, staking tokens, managing NFTs, or updating your device, Ledger Live Desktop empowers you with secure, trusted control over your crypto with peace of mind. Ledger