Ledger Live Desktop® — secure Portfolio & Device Manager. Ledger Live Desktop® brings portfolio, staking and device management together in one secure desktop app, designed for both new and power crypto users. Learn how to set up, protect, and get the most out of Ledger Live Desktop®, with official guides and trusted resources.
What Ledger Live Desktop® does for you
Manage devices and accounts in one place
Ledger Live Desktop® connects to Ledger hardware wallets and enables creation and management of multiple cryptocurrency accounts, direct portfolio overviews, and transaction signing while keeping private keys isolated on your device.
Secure transactions, local keys
Private keys never leave your Ledger device. Ledger Live Desktop® provides a desktop-only experience to check balances, initiate transactions and sign them securely using your Ledger hardware wallet.
Native features: staking, swaps, portfolio
Ledger Live Desktop® supports staking for select assets, integration with swap providers, and a detailed portfolio view with real-time price data.
Setup & first steps
Start by downloading Ledger Live Desktop® from the official source. Verify the checksum, connect your Ledger device, open Ledger Live Desktop® and follow the on-screen steps to add accounts for coins and tokens you hold. For official downloads and verification, always use Ledger's official pages: Ledger — Ledger Live and the support portal at support.ledger.com.
Security checklist
Security is central to Ledger Live Desktop®. Follow these core practices: keep firmware up to date, verify app downloads at official sources, back up your recovery phrase offline, avoid sharing your recovery phrase, and use a secure OS environment. Ledger's official security notes: Ledger Academy.
Official resources & further reading
This page collates official and trustworthy resources: Ledger official site and support, plus leading media coverage and guides to help you understand best practices and deeper technical details.
In-depth: How Ledger Live Desktop® signs a transaction
When you initiate a transfer in Ledger Live Desktop®, the transaction data is assembled on the desktop app, then the signing request is forwarded to your Ledger hardware device. On the device you review the details (receiving address, amount, fees) and approve the signature locally. Only after you approve does the signed transaction leave your device for broadcasting. This model keeps private keys on the device and minimizes remote risk.
Who should use Ledger Live Desktop®?
Ledger Live Desktop® is designed for users who want local, offline-backed key security plus the convenience of managing balances, staking, and swaps. If you value custody of keys, plan to hold long-term, or manage multiple accounts, Ledger Live Desktop® is a fit.
Troubleshooting quick tips
If Ledger Live Desktop® fails to detect your device, try the official steps: update device firmware, update Ledger Live Desktop® to latest version, try a different USB cable and port, and consult support articles. For deeper issues, official community and support pages can assist.