Official Ledger™ Live: Desktop —Getting Started

daratmp

24 Dec 2025 — 4 min read

Ledger Live Desktop is a powerful and secure application designed to help cryptocurrency users manage their digital assets directly from their computer. Built by Ledger, one of the most trusted names in crypto security, this desktop application works seamlessly with Ledger hardware wallets to provide users full control over their crypto holdings while maintaining industry-leading security standards.

In this comprehensive guide, you will learn everything about Ledger Live Desktop — from features, installation, supported assets, security benefits, and advanced usage, to troubleshooting common issues. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced crypto investor, this guide will help you use Ledger Live Desktop effectively and safely.

What Is Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop is an official desktop software developed by Ledger that allows users to manage cryptocurrencies through Ledger hardware wallets such as Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, and Ledger Stax. The application provides a single interface to send, receive, buy, sell, stake, and monitor digital assets.

Unlike web wallets or exchanges, Ledger Live Desktop ensures that private keys never leave the hardware wallet, significantly reducing the risk of hacking, phishing, or malware attacks.

Official Website:
https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live

Why Choose Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop stands out because it combines security, usability, and functionality in one application. It is designed for users who prefer managing crypto assets on a desktop environment with higher control and better visibility.

Key Advantages

Offline private key storage
Direct integration with Ledger hardware wallets
User-friendly interface
Support for thousands of crypto assets
No reliance on third-party wallets

Ledger Live Desktop System Requirements

Before installing Ledger Live Desktop, ensure your system meets the minimum requirements.

Supported Operating Systems

Windows: Windows 10 or later (64-bit)
macOS: macOS 12 or later
Linux: Ubuntu 20.04 or later

Hardware Requirements

At least 4GB RAM
Stable internet connection
USB port or Bluetooth (for Nano X)

How to Download Ledger Live Desktop Safely

Downloading Ledger Live Desktop from the official source is critical to avoid fake or malicious software.

Official Download Page

Always use:
https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live/download

Download Steps

Visit the official Ledger Live download page
Choose your operating system
Download the installer
Verify the application signature (recommended)
Install and launch the app

Important: Never download Ledger Live Desktop from third-party websites.

Installing Ledger Live Desktop Step by Step

The installation process is simple and beginner-friendly.

Installation Process

Open the downloaded installer file
Follow on-screen instructions
Launch Ledger Live Desktop
Choose “Get Started”
Connect your Ledger hardware wallet
Complete device verification

Once installed, Ledger Live Desktop will automatically check for firmware and app updates.

Setting Up Ledger Live Desktop for the First Time

When opening Ledger Live Desktop for the first time, users are guided through a secure setup process.

Initial Setup Options

Set up a new Ledger device
Restore an existing wallet
Connect an already configured Ledger device

The app verifies the authenticity of your hardware wallet using Ledger’s secure element technology.

Ledger Live Desktop Interface Overview

Ledger Live Desktop features a clean and intuitive interface designed for both beginners and advanced users.

Main Dashboard Sections

Portfolio: View total asset value
Accounts: Manage individual crypto accounts
Send & Receive: Transfer crypto securely
Buy & Sell: Purchase crypto via partners
Earn: Stake supported assets
Discover: Access Web3 apps

Supported Cryptocurrencies on Ledger Live Desktop

Ledger Live Desktop supports 5,000+ coins and tokens, including major blockchains and popular tokens.

Popular Supported Assets

Bitcoin (BTC)
Ethereum (ETH)
Binance Coin (BNB)
Solana (SOL)
Polygon (MATIC)
XRP
Litecoin (LTC)

For a complete list, visit:
https://www.ledger.com/supported-crypto-assets

Sending and Receiving Crypto Using Ledger Live Desktop

Ledger Live Desktop makes crypto transfers secure and simple.

Receiving Crypto

Select the account
Click “Receive”
Verify address on your Ledger device
Share the verified address

Sending Crypto

Select the account
Click “Send”
Enter recipient address and amount
Confirm transaction on Ledger device

All transactions must be physically approved on the hardware wallet.

Buying and Selling Crypto on Ledger Live Desktop

Ledger Live Desktop allows users to buy, sell, and swap crypto directly through trusted partners.

Supported Services

Coinify
MoonPay
Wyre
Banxa

Users can purchase crypto using debit cards, bank transfers, or swaps without leaving the app.

Staking and Earning Rewards with Ledger Live Desktop

Ledger Live Desktop supports staking for multiple cryptocurrencies, allowing users to earn passive income.

Supported Staking Assets

Ethereum (ETH)
Solana (SOL)
Tezos (XTZ)
Polkadot (DOT)
Cosmos (ATOM)

Staking is non-custodial, meaning assets remain under your control.

Security Features of Ledger Live Desktop

Security is the core strength of Ledger Live Desktop.

Key Security Benefits

Private keys never leave the device
Certified Secure Element chip
PIN and passphrase protection
Transaction verification on hardware
Open-source components

Ledger Live Desktop itself does not store sensitive data.

Ledger Live Desktop vs Ledger Live Mobile

While both versions offer similar features, there are key differences.

Desktop Version Benefits

Larger screen and better visibility
Ideal for long-term portfolio management
Advanced analytics

Mobile Version Benefits

On-the-go access
Bluetooth connectivity (Nano X)

Many users prefer using both together.

Using Ledger Live Desktop for NFTs

Ledger Live Desktop supports NFT management for Ethereum and Polygon networks.

NFT Features

View NFT collections
Secure storage via Ledger device
Connect to NFT marketplaces

This makes Ledger Live Desktop a secure option for NFT holders.

Common Ledger Live Desktop Issues and Solutions

Ledger Device Not Recognized

Check USB cable
Try a different port
Update drivers
Restart Ledger Live Desktop

App Not Opening

Clear cache
Reinstall application
Check system compatibility

Transaction Stuck

Adjust network fees
Refresh blockchain data

How to Update Ledger Live Desktop

Keeping Ledger Live Desktop updated ensures security and access to new features.

Update Steps

Open Ledger Live Desktop
Navigate to Settings
Check for updates
Install latest version

Firmware updates for Ledger devices are also managed within the app.

Tips for Using Ledger Live Desktop Safely

Never share your recovery phrase
Always verify addresses on the device
Bookmark official Ledger URLs
Avoid phishing emails
Keep your OS updated

Is Ledger Live Desktop Free?

Yes, Ledger Live Desktop is completely free to download and use. Users only pay standard blockchain network fees and optional third-party service fees when buying or swapping crypto.

Who Should Use Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop is ideal for:

Long-term crypto investors
Security-focused users
NFT collectors
Staking participants
Users managing multiple assets

Official Ledger Live Desktop Resources

Official Site: https://www.ledger.com
Ledger Live Download: https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live
Ledger Support: https://support.ledger.com

Final Thoughts on Ledger Live Desktop

Ledger Live Desktop is one of the most secure and feature-rich desktop applications available for managing cryptocurrency. With its seamless integration with Ledger hardware wallets, wide asset support, staking options, NFT management, and robust security features, it provides everything a crypto user needs in one place.