Ledger Live Desktop — Simple Overview

What is Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop is a desktop application made by Ledger that allows you to manage cryptocurrency assets with a Ledger hardware device. It acts as a user-friendly interface to view your portfolio, send and receive cryptocurrencies, install apps on your hardware device, and update firmware. The desktop app pairs with physical Ledger devices to keep private keys offline and secure.

Key features

• Account management: Add and organize different crypto accounts (Bitcoin, Ethereum, and many more).
• Portfolio view: See balances and recent activity across accounts in one place.
• Send & receive: Create transactions, check addresses, and confirm actions on your hardware device.
• App catalog: Install and remove blockchain apps on the Ledger device through the Manager.
• Secure updates: Update device firmware and apps while keeping private keys offline.

Getting started

Download Ledger Live Desktop from the official Ledger website and install it on your computer. When you open the app, follow the on-screen steps to pair your Ledger device. During setup you will either restore an existing wallet with your recovery phrase or create a new one. Always verify you are downloading from the official source and never share your recovery phrase with anyone.

Security tips

Never enter your recovery phrase into Ledger Live or any app — it belongs only on your hardware device and on the secure recovery sheet you keep offline.

Keep Ledger Live up to date and confirm every transaction on your physical device. Use a strong computer password, enable OS-level security, and avoid using public Wi‑Fi when signing transactions.

Common workflows

To receive funds, open an account in Ledger Live and verify the receive address on your hardware device. To send funds, create a transaction in Ledger Live and confirm the details on the device screen. Use the Manager to add support for new coins by installing their app on the device.