What is Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop is the comprehensive desktop application of the Ledger Live wallet ecosystem, designed specifically for Windows, macOS, and Linux users. This powerful software serves as your primary interface for managing cryptocurrency assets while maintaining the highest security standards through hardware wallet integration.

Unlike the mobile Ledger Live App, the desktop version offers full-featured functionality including advanced portfolio analytics, built-in exchange services, staking capabilities, and comprehensive account management tools.

Security Architecture: Ledger Live Desktop operates on a zero-trust principle where all sensitive operations require hardware verification. Your private keys remain securely stored on your Ledger® device, never exposed to your computer.

Platform Compatibility

Windows

Windows 10 or later
64-bit version required

macOS

macOS 11.0 or later
Intel & Apple Silicon

Linux

Ubuntu 18.04+
AppImage format

Key Desktop Features

Full Portfolio Management

Comprehensive asset tracking with detailed analytics and performance metrics

Built-in Exchange

Integrated cryptocurrency trading with competitive rates and direct hardware verification

Staking Services

Earn rewards through staking supported cryptocurrencies directly from your wallet

Advanced Security

Enterprise-grade security features with hardware-based transaction signing

Installation & Setup Process

1

Download Software

Begin at ledger.com/start for the official Ledger Live download or visit the main ledger.com website.

2

Run Installer

Execute the downloaded installer with administrative privileges and follow the setup wizard instructions.

3

Connect Hardware Wallet

Connect your Ledger® device via USB cable and ensure it's unlocked with your PIN code.

4

Complete Ledger Live Login

Follow the Ledger Live Login process, which requires device verification for secure authentication.

5

Install Applications

Use the Manager within Ledger Live to install cryptocurrency applications onto your device.

Security Features

The Ledger Live Desktop application implements multiple security layers to protect your assets:

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main advantages of Ledger Live Desktop over the mobile app?

Ledger Live Desktop offers full functionality including the built-in exchange, staking services, advanced portfolio analytics, and comprehensive account management tools. The mobile Ledger Live App focuses on basic portfolio tracking and transaction verification for on-the-go access.

Can I use Ledger Live Desktop on multiple computers?

Yes, you can install and use Ledger Live Desktop on multiple computers. Your cryptocurrency accounts and transaction history will synchronize across installations when you connect your Ledger® device, as the data is fetched directly from blockchain networks.

How does the Ledger Live Login process work on desktop?

The Ledger Live Login on desktop requires connecting your hardware wallet and verifying your identity through device PIN entry. This hardware-based authentication ensures that only the physical device owner can access and manage the cryptocurrency assets.

Is my data stored locally or on Ledger's servers?

All your portfolio data is stored locally on your computer. Ledger Live Desktop connects directly to blockchain networks to fetch balance and transaction information without storing your personal data on central servers.

What should I do if Ledger Live Desktop won't recognize my device?

Try different USB ports and cables, ensure your device is unlocked, update Ledger Live to the latest version, check your device firmware, and restart both the application and your computer if necessary.

Can I use both desktop and mobile versions simultaneously?

Yes, you can use Ledger Live Desktop and the mobile Ledger Live App simultaneously with the same Ledger® device. Both interfaces will show synchronized portfolio data while maintaining the same security standards.