Ledger Live Desktop – Manage Crypto Safely on PC & Mac

What is Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop is the official application from Ledger designed for PC (Windows & Linux) and Mac, providing a secure environment to manage your cryptocurrencies. Combined with your Ledger hardware wallet, it ensures your private keys remain offline and protected. Whether you're sending, receiving, staking, or just checking your balance, Ledger Live Desktop is your trusted gateway.

This desktop version offers more powerful tools and enhanced functionality than mobile-only versions, making it ideal for serious crypto users, developers, traders, or anyone who prefers working from a full-size screen.

Key Features & Benefits

• Manage over 5,500+ supported cryptocurrencies and tokens with live balance updates.
• Secure connection with your Ledger hardware wallet so private keys **never leave** the device.
• Built-in portfolio tracker with market data, charts, insights, and customizable alerts.
• Simplified buying, selling, and swapping through partner integrations.
• Stake assets directly from desktop (e.g. ETH, ADA, DOT) to earn rewards securely.
• Offline firmware updates and device management via desktop UI.
• Dark mode & high-resolution support tailored for PC & Mac users.

How to Get Started on PC & Mac

1. Visit the official Ledger Start Page.
2. Download the Ledger Live Desktop installer for your operating system at the official download page.
3. Install the software following on-screen instructions.
4. Connect your Ledger hardware wallet (Nano X or Nano S Plus) via USB.
5. Initialize the device if you haven’t already—set your PIN code and write down the 24-word recovery phrase.
6. Add your crypto accounts in Ledger Live Desktop to begin sending, receiving, or staking.

Web3 & dApp Compatibility

With Ledger Live Desktop, you can seamlessly interact with Web3 applications and decentralized platforms. Use the Ledger extension or integrated Web3 module to connect to NFT marketplaces, DeFi platforms, decentralized exchanges, and more—all while keeping your keys secure in your hardware wallet.

No more trusting browser wallets or exposing private keys: all transaction signing happens on your Ledger device offline!

Security You Can Trust

Security is at the core of Ledger’s design. Ledger Live Desktop leverages:

• A certified secure element to safeguard encryption keys.
• Firmware signing so you only install verified updates.
• Open-source components where possible for community review.
• Secure Boot on supported systems.

For full details, visit the Ledger Security Center.

User Experience & Interface

Ledger Live Desktop offers a clean, intuitive interface with features such as:

• Live portfolio dashboard with graphs and recent activity.
• Customizable settings including light/dark mode and language preferences.
• Detailed crypto account views showing transaction history, fees, and stakes.
• Notifications for firmware updates, network changes, and security alerts.

Supported Platforms & System Requirements

Ledger Live Desktop supports:

• Windows: Windows 10 (64-bit) or later
• macOS: macOS 11.0 (Big Sur) or later
• Linux: Several major distributions with 64-bit support

Make sure your computer meets minimum hardware specs (enough RAM, disk space, USB port) and stays updated for security.

Supported Assets & Ecosystem

Ledger Live Desktop supports a wide variety of assets, from major coins like Bitcoin and Ethereum to emerging Layer‑1s, tokens, NFTs, and more. View the full list of supported crypto assets and tokens on our site.

Ledger’s ecosystem also includes compatibility with:

• DeFi protocols
• NFT platforms
• Multi‑asset staking
• Custom tokens and chains

Help & Learning Resources

If you’re new to Ledger or crypto in general, you’ll find a wealth of knowledge via Ledger Academy. Step‑by‑step tutorials, FAQs, safety tips, and more.

If you run into issues or have questions, our Ledger Support Center is available to assist you with guides, troubleshooting, and official advice.

Why Choose Desktop Over Mobile?

Both are great, but desktop offers advantages when managing larger portfolios, handling advanced operations, or when you prefer working with multiple windows. Some features are smoother or more intuitive on a bigger screen, including:

• Extended transaction history visibility
• More precise fee controls
• Smoother portfolio overview and asset tracking
• Enhanced graphical charts and analytics

Getting Started Now

Don’t wait — start managing your crypto safely today. By using Ledger Live Desktop with a hardware wallet, you minimize risk, gain clarity, and stay fully in control of your assets.