What is Ledger Live Desktop?
Ledger Live Desktop is the official companion software for all Ledger hardware wallets (Nano S, Nano S Plus, Nano X, Stax). It allows you to manage over 5,500 cryptocurrencies, stake assets, track portfolio performance, and interact with DeFi—all while keeping your private keys securely stored on your hardware device.
Unlike web or mobile-only wallets, the desktop version offers advanced features like batch transactions, custom node connections, and full firmware management. As of October 2025, it supports native staking for 15+ networks and direct NFT viewing.
Step 1: Download Ledger Live Desktop
Always download from the official Ledger website to avoid malware and phishing:
- Visit www.ledger.com/ledger-live
- Click “Download for Desktop”
- Select your OS: Windows (64-bit), macOS (Intel/Apple Silicon), or Linux (AppImage/DEB)
- File size: ~110 MB
Security Tip: Verify the download using the SHA-256 checksum listed on the page. Example (Windows):
8f3a1b2c...d4e5f6
Step 2: Install & Launch
Windows
- Run the
.exe installer
- Allow through Windows Defender SmartScreen if prompted
- Launch from Start Menu or Desktop shortcut
macOS
- Open the
.dmg file
- Drag Ledger Live to Applications folder
- Right-click → Open (bypass Gatekeeper on first launch)
Linux
- AppImage: Make executable:
chmod +x Ledger-Live*.AppImage
- DEB: Install via
sudo dpkg -i ledger-live*.deb
- Add Ledger udev rules for USB access
Linux Users: Run wget https://raw.githubusercontent.com/LedgerHQ/udev-rules/master/add_udev_rules.sh && sudo bash add_udev_rules.sh to enable device detection.
Step 3: Connect Your Ledger Device
- Connect your Ledger via USB-C (or Bluetooth for Nano X)
- Enter your PIN on the device (not on your computer)
- Open Ledger Live Desktop → Click “Get Started”
- Choose: “Initialize as new device” or “Restore from recovery phrase”
- Follow on-screen prompts to set up or recover
First sync may take 2–5 minutes depending on blockchain activity.
Key Features of Ledger Live Desktop
- Portfolio Overview: Real-time balance, P&L, allocation charts
- Send/Receive: QR codes, address verification on device
- Manager: Install/uninstall apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.)
- Staking: Native support for Tezos, Polkadot, Cosmos, Tron
- Swap: Powered by Changelly, Paraswap
- Buy Crypto: Via MoonPay, Coinify (fiat on-ramp)
- NFT Gallery: View and manage NFTs on Ethereum, Polygon
FAQ – Ledger Live Desktop
Q: Is Ledger Live Desktop safe?
A: Yes. Private keys never leave your hardware wallet. The app is open-source and audited annually.
Q: Can I use it without a Ledger device?
A: Limited mode only (view-only portfolios). Full functionality requires a hardware wallet.
Q: Why is my device not detected?
A: Try a different USB port/cable. On Windows, install Ledger Drivers. On Linux, ensure udev rules are applied.
Q: How to update Ledger Live Desktop?
A: Auto-updates on launch. Or go to Settings → About → Check for updates.
Q: Does it work offline?
A: Yes for signing transactions. Internet required for balance sync and market data.
Q: Can I run multiple instances?
A: No. Only one instance allowed. Use multiple accounts within the app instead.
Security Best Practices
- Never enter your 24-word recovery phrase into any software
- Enable app password in Settings → Security
- Use Windows Hello / Touch ID for quick unlock
- Regularly update firmware via Manager tab
- Verify recipient addresses on your Ledger screen