Ledgerยฎ Live Desktop

Complete getting started guide for the desktop application. Securely manage your cryptocurrencies with Ledger hardware wallets on Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Download for Desktop View Setup Guide

Download Ledger Live Desktop

Choose your operating system to download the official Ledger Live Desktop application. The desktop version offers enhanced security features and offline functionality.

Windows
macOS
Linux
๐ŸชŸ

Ledger Live for Windows

Compatible with Windows 10 and Windows 11. The installer will guide you through the setup process.

Download .exe (64-bit)

System Requirements

  • OS: Windows 10 (64-bit) or Windows 11
  • RAM: 2 GB minimum (4 GB recommended)
  • Storage: 200 MB available space
  • USB: Available USB port for device connection
๐ŸŽ

Ledger Live for macOS

Optimized for macOS 10.14 (Mojave) and later versions. Includes native Apple Silicon support.

Download .dmg

System Requirements

  • OS: macOS 10.14 (Mojave) or later
  • Architecture: Intel & Apple Silicon (M1/M2)
  • RAM: 2 GB minimum (4 GB recommended)
  • Storage: 200 MB available space
๐Ÿง

Ledger Live for Linux

Universal AppImage compatible with most Linux distributions. No installation required.

Download AppImage

System Requirements

  • OS: Ubuntu 18.04+ or equivalent
  • Architecture: 64-bit x86
  • RAM: 2 GB minimum (4 GB recommended)
  • Storage: 200 MB available space
  • Dependencies: FUSE 2.8.6+ for AppImage

๐Ÿ”’ Download Security

Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website. Verify the URL matches ledger.com/ledger-live/download to avoid phishing attempts and malware.

Desktop Setup Guide

Follow these steps to install and set up Ledger Live Desktop with your hardware wallet.

1

Download and Install

Download the appropriate version for your operating system from the official Ledger website. Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions. The installation typically takes 2-3 minutes.

2

Launch Ledger Live

Open Ledger Live from your applications folder or desktop shortcut. The application will perform initial setup and check for updates automatically.

3

Initialize Your Device

Connect your Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Nano X) via USB cable. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up as a new device or restore from recovery phrase.

4

Install Applications

Use the Manager tab in Ledger Live to install applications for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage. Each currency requires its own application on your device.

5

Add Accounts

Navigate to the Accounts tab and click "Add account" for each cryptocurrency you want to track. Your device will be required to verify and confirm each account addition.

6

Start Managing Assets

You can now view your portfolio, send and receive cryptocurrencies, use the exchange feature, and access all Ledger Live Desktop functionality.

Desktop Exclusive Features

Ledger Live Desktop offers enhanced functionality compared to the mobile version, providing a comprehensive cryptocurrency management experience.

๐Ÿ’ป

Full Portfolio Management

Complete overview of all your cryptocurrency holdings with advanced charting and analytics tools.

๐Ÿ”„

Built-in Exchange

Swap between hundreds of cryptocurrencies directly within the application with competitive rates.

๐Ÿ’ฐ

Staking Dashboard

Earn rewards by staking supported cryptocurrencies like Ethereum, Cardano, and Polkadot.

๐Ÿ“Š

Advanced Analytics

Detailed performance tracking, transaction history, and portfolio allocation insights.

๐Ÿ”ง

Device Management

Full control over your Ledger device settings, firmware updates, and application management.

๐ŸŒ

Offline Mode

View your portfolio and transaction history without an internet connection for enhanced privacy.

Desktop Security Features

Ledger Live Desktop incorporates multiple security layers to protect your assets while providing a seamless user experience.

Security Architecture

The desktop application works in tandem with your Ledger hardware wallet to ensure maximum security:

๐Ÿ” Private Key Protection

Your private keys never leave the secure element of your Ledger device. All cryptographic operations happen offline.

๐Ÿ–ฅ๏ธ Local Data Storage

Your portfolio data is stored locally on your computer, not on Ledger servers, ensuring privacy.

โœ… Transaction Verification

All transactions must be physically confirmed on your device screen, preventing malware attacks.

๐Ÿ”’ Automatic Updates

Regular security updates protect against emerging threats and vulnerabilities.

Best Security Practices

  • Always verify receiving addresses on your device screen
  • Keep your 24-word recovery phrase secure and offline
  • Enable automatic updates for both Ledger Live and device firmware
  • Use a secure computer free from malware
  • Never share your recovery phrase or enter it on any website

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between Ledger Live Desktop and Mobile?

Ledger Live Desktop offers more comprehensive features including full portfolio management, built-in exchange, staking dashboard, advanced analytics, and device management tools. The desktop version also supports offline mode and provides a larger interface for easier navigation.

Can I use Ledger Live Desktop without a hardware wallet?

You can install and open Ledger Live Desktop without a hardware wallet, but you cannot access most features. To manage cryptocurrencies, send transactions, or use security features, you must connect a Ledger hardware device. The desktop app serves as an interface while security is handled by your hardware wallet.

How do I update Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop automatically checks for updates and will notify you when a new version is available. You can download and install updates directly through the application. Go to Settings > Help > Check for updates to manually check. Always keep your application updated for security improvements.

Why is my Ledger device not being detected?

If your Ledger device isn't detected, try these steps: 1) Use the original USB cable, 2) Try different USB ports, 3) Ensure your device is unlocked with PIN, 4) Restart Ledger Live, 5) Update device firmware. For Windows users, you may need to install Ledger Live as administrator for proper driver installation.

Can I run Ledger Live Desktop on multiple computers?

Yes, you can install Ledger Live Desktop on multiple computers. Your accounts and transaction history are stored on the blockchain, not locally. When you connect your Ledger device to any computer with Ledger Live installed, it will sync your complete portfolio. Your security remains intact as private keys stay on your hardware device.

Is Ledger Live Desktop available in my language?

Ledger Live Desktop supports multiple languages including English, French, German, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, Russian, and Chinese. You can change the language in Settings > General > Language. The application will automatically download language packs when needed.

Official Resources & Support

โš ๏ธ Security Alert: Protect Your Assets

Ledger will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase. Never enter your recovery phrase on any website or share it with anyone. Beware of phishing emails, fake support accounts, and fraudulent websites. Always verify you're on the official Ledger website before downloading software.