Ledger Live®® Desktop — Getting Started | Official Ledger Wallet

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Ledger Live Desktop – Secure Crypto Management for Your Computer

Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application developed by Ledger to help users securely manage their cryptocurrency assets using Ledger hardware wallets. Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, Ledger Live Desktop provides a powerful and secure interface to buy, sell, send, receive, stake, and track digital assets — all while your private keys remain safely stored on your physical Ledger device.

Unlike web-based wallets, Ledger Live Desktop does not store private keys online. Every transaction must be verified and confirmed directly on your hardware wallet, ensuring maximum protection against online threats.

💻 What Is Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop is a companion application that works alongside Ledger hardware wallets such as:

  • Ledger Nano S Plus
  • Ledger Nano X

The desktop version provides advanced features and full device control, making it ideal for users who prefer managing crypto assets on a larger screen with full functionality.

🔐 Key Features of Ledger Live Desktop

1️⃣ Secure Device Connection

Connect your Ledger device via USB to access your wallet securely. Your private keys never leave the hardware wallet.

2️⃣ Portfolio Dashboard

Track your entire crypto portfolio in real time:

  • Total account balance
  • Individual asset breakdown
  • Market performance updates
  • Transaction history

3️⃣ Multi-Asset Support

Ledger Live Desktop supports thousands of cryptocurrencies, including:

  • Bitcoin (BTC)
  • Ethereum (ETH)
  • Litecoin (LTC)
  • XRP
  • ERC-20 tokens and many more

4️⃣ App Installation & Management

Install or remove cryptocurrency apps directly on your Ledger device through Ledger Live.

5️⃣ Buy, Sell & Swap

Integrated services allow you to buy, sell, and swap crypto securely while confirming every action on your hardware wallet.

6️⃣ Staking Capabilities

Stake supported assets like Ethereum and other Proof-of-Stake coins directly from the desktop interface.

🛡️ Security Benefits

Ledger Live Desktop is built around hardware-level security:

  • 🔒 Private keys stored in Secure Element chip
  • 🔢 PIN-protected device access
  • 📟 Physical confirmation required for transactions
  • 🔄 Verified firmware updates
  • 🧩 Secure transaction signing offline

Even if your computer is compromised, attackers cannot move funds without your physical device and PIN.

🚀 How to Get Started

  1. Download Ledger Live Desktop from the official Ledger website.
  2. Install the application on your computer.
  3. Connect your Ledger hardware wallet using a USB cable.
  4. Enter your PIN to unlock the device.
  5. Add accounts and begin managing your crypto assets.

Always verify you are using the official Ledger application to avoid phishing risks.

🔄 Firmware & Updates

Ledger Live Desktop also manages:

  • Firmware updates
  • Device security checks
  • App updates
  • Compatibility improvements

Keeping your firmware updated ensures optimal security and performance.

⚠️ Important Safety Tips

  • Never share your 24-word recovery phrase.
  • Do not enter your recovery phrase into any website.
  • Only restore wallets directly on a genuine Ledger device.
  • Verify all transaction details on your hardware wallet screen.

✅ Why Choose Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop offers a powerful, user-friendly environment for serious crypto management. With full device control, detailed portfolio tracking, and hardware-backed transaction security, it provides one of the safest ways to manage digital assets.

If you value true self-custody and offline key protection, Ledger Live Desktop is an essential tool for protecting and growing your cryptocurrency portfolio.

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