Ledger® Live: Desktop® — Getting Started

About Ledger Live Desktop

Ledger Live Desktop is the official desktop application for managing your cryptocurrency assets in tandem with your Ledger hardware wallet (such as Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, or other supported devices). Unlike web wallets or browser extensions, it runs on your computer (Windows, macOS, Linux) and keeps your private keys offline, never exposing them to the internet or your PC’s software. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

With Ledger Live Desktop, you can monitor your portfolio, send and receive crypto, stake in supported networks, manage apps on your device, view NFTs, and access integrated swap / buy / sell functions — all while maintaining maximum security. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Key Features

Wallet & Asset Support: Ledger Live Desktop supports thousands of coins and tokens — from Bitcoin, Ethereum, to many altcoins and tokens (ERC‑20, etc.). :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Secure Transaction Signing: All operations (send, swap, stake) are confirmed on your Ledger hardware device. Your private keys never leave the device. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Real-Time Portfolio Dashboard: View your balances, performance charts, asset breakdowns, and recent transactions. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Buy / Swap / Sell: Integrated with trusted third-party partners, Ledger Live Desktop allows in-app buy, exchange, and sell operations. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Staking & Rewards: Stake supported assets like ETH, SOL, DOT, ATOM, and others directly via the app. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
NFT & Web3 Integration: View Ethereum / Polygon NFTs and interact with decentralized apps (dApps) via Ledger’s secure bridge. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
App & Firmware Manager: Install or remove blockchain apps on your Ledger device, update firmware, and manage device settings safely. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

How to Use Ledger Live Desktop

Download & Install: Visit the official Ledger website and download Ledger Live Desktop for your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux). Always use the official source to avoid fake or malicious versions. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Connect Your Ledger Device: Use the USB cable (or Bluetooth for compatible devices) and unlock it with your PIN. The app will detect your device and verify it via a “genuine check.” :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
Install Apps & Add Accounts: Use the “Manager” tab to install apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) on your hardware device, then add accounts in Ledger Live. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
Send / Receive Crypto: Click “Receive” to show an address (confirm on device), or “Send” and fill in details (confirm transaction on device). :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
Use Swap / Buy / Sell: Use integrated partners to swap or buy crypto within the app. Each action still requires confirmation on the device. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
Stake Assets: Go to the Earn / Staking tab, choose a validator, confirm on device, and track rewards. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
View NFTs & Use dApps: In the NFT section, browse your NFTs. Use dApp integrations to interact with DeFi protocols, signing each action on your device. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
Keep Software & Firmware Updated: Always update both Ledger Live Desktop and your hardware firmware to maintain security and compatibility. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}

Go to FAQ →

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Ledger Live Desktop free to use?

Yes — the application is free. You only pay the blockchain (network) fees, or any fees charged by third‑party providers used in buy/swap operations. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}

Can I manage cryptocurrencies without a Ledger hardware wallet?

No. Ledger Live Desktop is a companion interface; every action must be confirmed by a Ledger hardware device. The desktop app alone does not hold your private keys. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}

What operating systems are supported?

Ledger Live Desktop is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}

Why doesn’t Ledger Live detect my device?

Try:

Switch USB cables or ports.
Verify the device is unlocked with the correct PIN.
Update Ledger Live and firmware.
Restart the app or system.
Disable interfering security or USB filters.

Is the “genuine check” necessary?

Yes — it ensures that your hardware device is not counterfeit or tampered with before allowing interaction. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}

Can Ledger Live Desktop be phished or hijacked?

There have been reports of fake Ledger apps distributed to steal seed phrases (especially on macOS) — always download from the official Ledger website and never input your recovery phrase into any app. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}

Can I use Ledger Live Desktop and the mobile version simultaneously?

Yes. You can install on multiple devices. Ledger Sync allows you to synchronize account visibility across desktop and mobile. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}

What happens if I skip firmware updates?

Skipping firmware updates can expose you to known vulnerabilities or reduced compatibility with new coins. It’s strongly recommended to keep both software and firmware up to date. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}

Can I export transaction history for tax purposes?

Yes. Ledger Live Desktop allows you to export CSV of your transaction history across accounts to assist with tax reporting. :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}