📥 What is Ledger Live Desktop?
Ledger Live Desktop is the official application for Ledger® hardware wallets, allowing you to manage over 5,000 crypto assets, stake coins, install apps, and access Web3 — all from your desktop.
It provides an all-in-one solution for both beginners and advanced users. With a simple interface and powerful features, Ledger Live Desktop is the foundation of secure self-custody.
💻 System Requirements
- Windows 10+, macOS 10.14+, or Linux (64-bit only)
- Internet connection for updates and syncing
- USB port to connect your Ledger Nano S/S Plus or Nano X
🚀 Installing Ledger Live Desktop
- Visit the official site: ledger.com/ledger-live
- Download the version for your operating system
- Install the app and launch Ledger Live
- Connect your Ledger device via USB
- Choose to set up a new device or restore using recovery phrase
- Set a strong PIN and confirm device authenticity
🔐 Setting Up a New Wallet
Once Ledger Live is installed, you can either create a new wallet or restore an existing one. During setup:
- 📄 You'll receive a 24-word recovery phrase — write it down offline
- 🔢 Choose a secure 4-8 digit PIN code
- 📱 Your device will require confirmation before any transaction
🧩 Main Features of Ledger Live
- 📊 Portfolio Overview — Track all your crypto in one place
- 🔁 Send and receive crypto securely
- 💱 Swap assets with built-in providers
- 🧱 Stake coins like ETH, DOT, ATOM, and more
- 📦 Install apps for different blockchains via Manager
🌐 Web3 and DeFi Access
Ledger Live Desktop integrates with Web3 dApps via Ledger Extension (browser plugin) or through external wallets like MetaMask. This allows you to:
- 🦊 Connect to DeFi protocols securely using your hardware wallet
- 🎨 Buy and sell NFTs on platforms like OpenSea
- 💸 Interact with staking, lending, and DEX platforms
📈 Supported Assets
Ledger Live supports:
- 🟠 Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), XRP, ADA, DOT, and more
- 🪙 All ERC-20 tokens (e.g., USDT, LINK, UNI, SHIB)
- 🧩 BEP-20 tokens on Binance Smart Chain
- 🌍 Native tokens from 100+ blockchains
Check the full list at ledger.com/supported-crypto-assets
🧠 Tips for Secure Usage
- 🔒 Never share your recovery phrase with anyone
- ✅ Use only the official Ledger Live app
- 🧯 Backup your recovery phrase securely offline
- 👁️ Always confirm transactions on the hardware device
- 🌐 Enable “Genuine Check” to verify your device is authentic
📦 Updating Ledger Live & Firmware
Regular updates bring new features and critical security fixes. To update:
- Open Ledger Live and navigate to "Settings > About"
- Install updates if available
- Follow prompts for firmware upgrades via USB connection
📚 Common Troubleshooting
- 💡 If your device isn’t recognized: Try another USB port or cable
- 📵 Ledger Live stuck loading: Restart the app and clear cache
- ❗ Can’t add account: Ensure correct app is installed on your device
Visit the official help center: support.ledger.com
✅ Final Security Checklist
- ✅ PIN enabled
- ✅ Recovery phrase written offline and stored safely
- ✅ All transactions reviewed and confirmed on-device <