Desktop App • Windows • macOS • Linux

Manage Your Crypto Securely with Ledger Live Desktop

Ledger Live Desktop is the companion application for your Ledger hardware wallet. Add accounts, send and receive, stake, and swap—while your private keys stay isolated on your Ledger device. This page offers an independent guide to help you download, install, and use Ledger Live Desktop. We are not affiliated with Ledger.

Get Desktop App See Quick Setup Explore Features

Compatible: Nano X • Nano S Plus • Stax Ledger wallet • Ledger hardware wallet

Download Ledger Live Desktop

Install the official Ledger Live Desktop application for your operating system. Always verify file integrity and only download from trusted sources. For convenience, links below lead to the vendor’s official pages. Keywords: Ledger Live app download, Ledger Live Desktop, Ledger.com start.

Windows (x64)

Download the .exe installer for Windows 10/11. Requires a USB port or Bluetooth (Nano X) for device connection.

Download for Windows

macOS (Intel & Apple Silicon)

Universal .dmg build. When opening for the first time, confirm Gatekeeper prompts and allow USB/Bluetooth permissions.

Download for macOS

Linux (AppImage)

AppImage for major distros. Make it executable and set udev rules for USB. Ideal for privacy‑focused workflows.

Download for Linux

Tip: Bookmark this page before installation so you can quickly return to the Ledger wallet setup guide below.

Quick Setup (Ledger Wallet + Ledger Live)

Whether you’re setting up a Ledger hardware wallet for the first time or restoring from a recovery phrase, these steps help you start safely. Keep your 24‑word recovery phrase offline and never share it. You do not need a Ledger Live login to hold crypto—your device is your key.

Install & Verify

Install Ledger Live Desktop. Verify the publisher signature and checksums where provided. Launch the app and opt‑in to anonymous analytics only if comfortable.

Initialize Your Device

On the Ledger wallet (Nano X, Nano S Plus, or Stax), generate a new wallet or choose restore. Create a strong PIN and write down your recovery phrase on paper. Never type it into any computer or phone.

Connect & Add Accounts

Connect the device via USB (or Bluetooth for Nano X) and open Ledger Live. Use Add account to enable coins like BTC, ETH, SOL. The device confirms addresses for receive operations.

Send, Receive, Stake

Use Receive to copy verified addresses. Use Send to sign transactions on‑device. Explore staking (ETH, SOL, ATOM, etc.) and swaps via integrated providers if permitted in your region.

Security Basics

Keep firmware and Ledger Live up to date; verify changes on the device screen before approving.
Enable passphrase (advanced) only if you fully understand backups and plausible deniability.
Bookmark official vendor domains. Avoid unsolicited support DMs; Ledger will never ask for your 24‑word phrase.
Use a dedicated computer profile, restrict browser extensions, and consider a standard user account for daily ops.

Ledger hardware wallet connected to a laptop

What You Can Do in Ledger Live Desktop

Ledger Live is the control center for your Ledger wallet. Below is a concise overview of the most‑used capabilities. Functionality can vary by region and cryptocurrency. Always research fees and providers before using integrated services such as swaps or buys.

Portfolio & Accounts

Track balances across multiple chains, view performance over time, and organize accounts. Add Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and many other networks. Rename accounts and tag operations for clean accounting.

Send & Receive with Verification

Generate a receive address and verify it on your device screen. While sending, fees and destinations are shown on your Ledger; you must approve each transaction physically.

Swap, Buy, Sell (via Partners)

Access third‑party on‑ramps and swap providers directly from the app. Compare quotes, understand KYC requirements, and confirm that services are available in your jurisdiction.

Staking & Rewards

Stake supported assets (like ETH, SOL, DOT, ATOM) through validators or partners. Rewards are non‑guaranteed; verify lockup, slashing, and withdrawal conditions.

NFT Support

View and transfer NFTs on supported chains. Use a separate hot wallet for exploration and keep high‑value collectibles behind the Ledger for cold storage security.

App Catalog

Install and remove coin apps on your Ledger hardware wallet. Storage limits apply; newer devices like Nano X/S Plus offer more space than older models.

Advanced: Networks, Fees, and Customization

Power users can customize fee strategies, choose derivation paths where relevant, and connect to testnets when supported. For EVM chains, consider enabling blind signing only when you trust the dApp and understand the contract data.

Developer options: Experimental toggles and debug tools are hidden by default. Enable only when necessary.
Privacy: You can opt out of analytics and select advanced node options where available.
Backups: Store multiple secure paper backups of your recovery phrase. Consider a metal backup for durability.

Charts and analytics representing portfolio tracking

Feature	Ledger Live Desktop	Browser Wallet Extension	Mobile Wallet
Private Key Storage	On Ledger hardware (offline)	In browser extension (encrypted)	On phone (secure enclave / keystore)
dApp Connectivity	Via partners/bridges; limited direct dApp UX	Excellent (native in browser)	Good (WalletConnect, in‑app browsers)
Best For	Cold storage, long‑term holdings, high security	Frequent DeFi/NFT interactions	Everyday payments, on‑the‑go access
Learning Curve	Moderate	Low to moderate	Low

Troubleshooting & Pro Tips

If Ledger Live Desktop doesn’t detect your device or a transaction fails, try the checks below before escalating. These steps cover common Windows, macOS, and Linux scenarios.

Device Not Detected

Use the original cable; try a different USB port. Close other wallet apps and browsers that might occupy the USB interface. On Windows, install the latest drivers; on Linux, confirm udev rules.

App Install Fails

Update device firmware first, free storage by removing unused coin apps (keys remain), then retry. Keep the device unlocked and on the dashboard.

Transaction Stuck

For Bitcoin, increase fee via RBF if supported. For Ethereum, speed up by replacing the nonce with higher gas settings. Always verify updated details on the device screen.

Security Reminder: You never need a “recovery” website or agent. The only time you use the 24‑word phrase is when you restore a device inside the secure hardware—never on a computer or smartphone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ledger Live Desktop the same as a browser extension?

No. Ledger Live is a standalone desktop app that works with a Ledger hardware wallet. A browser extension stores keys in the browser; Ledger stores keys on the device. You can, however, use a separate wallet extension for dApps and keep cold storage on Ledger.

Do I need a Ledger Live account or login?

There is no mandatory Ledger Live login for holding assets. The app can work without a cloud account. Your holdings are derived from your recovery phrase secured on the device.

What’s the difference between Ledger Nano X, Nano S Plus, and Stax?

All are hardware wallets that secure keys offline. Stax has a larger screen and wireless charging; Nano X supports Bluetooth; Nano S Plus is the more affordable USB model with ample storage for apps.

Can I use Ledger Live on multiple computers?

Yes. Install Ledger Live Desktop on any number of machines. Your accounts will re‑sync from the device when connected. Never export or type your recovery phrase into a computer.

How do swaps and staking work?

Ledger Live integrates third‑party providers for swaps, buys, sells, and staking. Fees, availability, and KYC depend on the provider and region. Always compare options and confirm on‑device.

Is this the official Ledger website?

No—this is an independent educational page about Ledger Live Desktop. For official support, consult the vendor’s help center.