Overview
Ledger Live Desktop is the companion application designed to work with Ledger hardware wallets. It gives you a single, user-friendly desktop interface to view your balances, send and receive cryptocurrencies, install and manage apps on your Ledger device, stake supported tokens, and keep track of portfolio performance. Built with a security-first mindset, Ledger Live pairs a hardened hardware key with software convenience so you can control private keys while using modern desktop workflows.
Key features
Portfolio & balances
See an aggregated, real-time view of all your accounts and tokens. Filter by currency, sort by balance, and explore historical performance.
Send & receive
Create, verify, and sign transactions using your Ledger device. Each operation requires physical verification on the hardware key for maximum safety.
App catalog & device management
Install the right blockchain apps on your Ledger device and update firmware when new security or usability fixes are released.
Staking & earning
Stake supported assets directly from the app and monitor rewards. Ledger Live provides delegation flows for multiple proof-of-stake networks.
Security model
Security is the heart of Ledger Live Desktop. Private keys never leave the hardware wallet; signing is performed on the device after you verify transaction details on its secure screen. Ledger Live acts as a bridge: an intuitive graphical interface that communicates with the device through a secure USB or Bluetooth channel. Always verify the address and amount on the device before confirming.
Getting started
To start with Ledger Live Desktop: download the official installer for your operating system, connect your Ledger device, create or restore an account from your recovery phrase, and install any blockchain apps required for currencies you want to manage.
Best practices & tips
- Keep your recovery phrase offline and never share it. Ledger staff will never ask for your recovery phrase.
- Keep firmware and Ledger Live up to date to receive security patches and feature improvements.
- When exporting public addresses, double-check them on the hardware device screen to avoid address spoofing attacks.
- Use a dedicated, up-to-date desktop environment for key management and avoid unknown USB hubs or shared machines.
Developer & advanced workflows
Developers can integrate Ledger devices into their workflows using Ledger's libraries and APIs. Ledger Live also supports custom accounts and advanced settings for experienced users who want fine-grained control over transaction fees, nonce handling, or exploring raw operations for certain blockchains.
Frequently asked questions
Does Ledger Live hold my crypto?
No. Ledger Live does not custody funds — your private keys are stored on the Ledger hardware device. Ledger Live reads public information and helps you build and sign transactions.
Can I use Ledger Live on multiple computers?
Yes. Ledger Live can be installed on multiple desktops. Your accounts are derived from your recovery phrase, so ensure your recovery phrase is the same and kept safe.
Sample command-line snippet
Wrap-up
Ledger Live Desktop balances convenience and security, making it simpler to manage multiple cryptocurrencies without sacrificing control over your private keys. Whether you’re checking portfolio performance, staking, or conducting a high-value transfer, the combination of a Ledger hardware wallet and Ledger Live provides a widely trusted workflow for securely interacting with blockchains.