Ledger Live Desktop — Install, Features & Security

What is Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop is the native desktop application from Ledger that pairs with Ledger hardware wallets (like the Ledger Nano series) to manage cryptocurrencies, NFTs and decentralized apps. It provides a local, non-custodial interface so your private keys remain on your device while you use the app to monitor balances, sign transactions and update firmware.

Key features

Multi‑account & multi‑currency: manage dozens of blockchains and tokens from one dashboard.
Transaction verification: every transaction must be confirmed on your Ledger device.
Portfolio & analytics: real‑time balances and portfolio tracking built into the app.
Buy, Swap, Stake & DeFi: integrations with third‑party services appear inside the app for on‑ramps and yield products.
App & firmware management: install currency apps, update firmware and verify binary signatures.

Security model

The security design of Ledger Live Desktop assumes your private keys never leave the Ledger device. The desktop app acts as a safe interface: transactions are prepared on the computer but must be physically approved on the hardware device. Ledger publishes checksums and signatures for download files so you can verify the app binary before installing.

System requirements & safe install

Ledger provides official installers for Windows, macOS and Linux; minimum display resolution is required for the UI. Always download only from Ledger’s official pages and verify signatures to avoid fake apps. See system specifics and the download page below.

Official resources

Ledger Live — Download Ledger Live — Overview Ledger Support System requirements How to download & install Ledger Live download signatures Phishing warnings & status Interface overview Ledger security model (Academy) Ledger Nano S Plus (shop)

Quick start (desktop)

Download Ledger Live Desktop from the official page above and verify the file signature.
Install and open the app, then connect your Ledger hardware device.
Add accounts for the blockchains you use and check balances.
When sending crypto, always verify transaction details on the device screen before approving.

FAQs

Q: Is Ledger Live Desktop free?: A: Yes — Ledger Live Desktop is free to download and use; third‑party services integrated in the app may charge fees.
Q: Can I use Ledger Live without a hardware device?: A: No — Ledger Live is designed to work with Ledger hardware wallets; the device stores your private keys offline.
Q: Where should I download Ledger Live Desktop?: A: Only from Ledger’s official download page: ledger.com/ledger-live-download.
Q: How do I know the installer is genuine?: A: Verify the installer’s checksum or signature published on Ledger’s site before running it.
Q: What if my OS is ARM‑based?: A: Refer to Ledger’s system requirements page; some ARM systems may not be supported. See support article linked above.
Q: What security steps prevent phishing?: A: Never share your recovery phrase, always verify URLs, use official signatures, and confirm transactions on the device itself.