Master the Ledger Live Desktop application for ultimate cryptocurrency security, portfolio management, and hardware wallet integration.
Ledger Live Desktop is the official companion application for Ledger hardware wallets, providing a secure interface to manage your cryptocurrency portfolio. Unlike web-based wallets, Ledger Live Desktop operates locally on your computer, ensuring your private keys never leave your Ledger hardware device.
The application offers a comprehensive suite of features including portfolio tracking, transaction management, cryptocurrency buying/selling, staking services, and integration with decentralized applications through Ledger's secure ecosystem.
Your private keys remain secure in the hardware wallet, never exposed to your computer or the internet.
Track all your cryptocurrency assets in one place with real-time balance and price information.
Swap between cryptocurrencies directly within the application using integrated exchange partners.
Earn rewards by participating in proof-of-stake networks directly through Ledger Live.
Connect to decentralized applications securely using Ledger Live as a bridge to Web3 services.
Synchronize your portfolio across desktop and mobile applications while maintaining security.
Before installing Ledger Live Desktop, ensure your system meets the following requirements for optimal performance and security.
Windows 10 (64-bit) or later
4GB RAM minimum
200MB free disk space
macOS 10.14 (Mojave) or later
4GB RAM minimum
200MB free disk space
Ubuntu 18.04 or equivalent
4GB RAM minimum
200MB free disk space
Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Nano X
USB port (or Bluetooth for Nano X)
Internet connection
Follow these steps to properly install and set up Ledger Live Desktop on your computer.
Visit the official Ledger website and navigate to the Ledger Live download page. Select your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux) and download the appropriate installer. Verify the download by checking the file signature if possible.
Locate the downloaded file and run the installer. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process. On Windows, you may need to grant administrator permissions. On macOS, drag the Ledger Live icon to your Applications folder.
Launch Ledger Live from your applications or start menu. The application will guide you through the initial setup process, including choosing between setting up a new device or connecting an existing Ledger hardware wallet.
Connect your Ledger hardware wallet to your computer using the provided USB cable. Unlock your device with your PIN code. Ledger Live will automatically detect your device and establish a secure connection.
Navigate to the Manager tab within Ledger Live to install apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage. Each cryptocurrency requires its own app on your Ledger device due to storage limitations.
Go to the Accounts tab and click "Add Account" to create accounts for your installed cryptocurrency apps. Ledger Live will synchronize with the blockchain to display your balance and transaction history.
Understand the differences between Ledger Live Desktop and Mobile to choose the right platform for your needs.
| Feature | Desktop | Mobile |
|---|---|---|
| Full Portfolio Management | ✓ | ✓ |
| Exchange Integration | ✓ | ✓ |
| Staking Services | ✓ | ✓ |
| App Installation | ✓ | ✗ |
| Firmware Updates | ✓ | ✗ |
| Advanced Settings | ✓ | ✗ |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | ✗ | ✓ |
| Portability | ✗ | ✓ |
Ledger Live Desktop offers powerful advanced features for experienced cryptocurrency users.
Gain insights into your cryptocurrency holdings with detailed analytics. Track your portfolio performance over time, view allocation by asset, and monitor profit/loss for each cryptocurrency in your portfolio.
Access comprehensive transaction history with detailed information for each transaction. Export your transaction history for tax reporting purposes or personal record-keeping.
Add support for custom Ethereum-compatible networks to interact with various blockchain ecosystems. This feature is particularly useful for developers and users participating in less common networks.
Access experimental features and developer tools for advanced users. These tools provide additional functionality for those with technical expertise in blockchain technology.
Explore Advanced FeaturesIf Ledger Live doesn't recognize your device, try these solutions:
If Ledger Live crashes or freezes:
If your balance isn't displaying correctly: