Ledger Live Desktop® — Getting Started | Official Ledger Wallet

htom

— 1 min read

For cryptocurrency users who prefer managing their assets on a computer, Ledger Live Desktop is the ideal tool. Developed by Ledger, it serves as the official desktop companion for Ledger hardware wallets like the Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X.

How Ledger Live Desktop Works

Ledger Live Desktop communicates securely with your Ledger device via USB. While the app handles portfolio tracking and transaction preparation, all sensitive operations — including transaction signing — occur within the hardware wallet. This ensures:

  • Private keys remain offline and secure
  • Physical device confirmation is required for transactions
  • Malware cannot access your funds even if your computer is compromised

Key Capabilities

Account Management – Add and organize multiple cryptocurrency accounts.
Portfolio Tracking – Monitor holdings, market value, and performance over time.
Crypto Transfers – Send and receive coins safely with on-device confirmation.
Buy, Sell, and Swap – Access third-party services to purchase or exchange assets.
Staking – Stake supported cryptocurrencies to earn rewards directly through the app.
Device Management – Update firmware and install or uninstall cryptocurrency apps on your Ledger device.

Desktop Advantages

Ledger Live Desktop provides a full-featured environment for crypto management, often preferred for larger portfolios or more advanced users. It supports multiple operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux) and offers enhanced performance and control compared to mobile apps.

Security Best Practices

  • Only download Ledger Live Desktop from the official Ledger website.
  • Never share your recovery phrase.
  • Always confirm transactions on the device screen.

Conclusion

Ledger Live Desktop combines the convenience of a desktop application with the security of Ledger hardware wallets. It gives users a secure, centralized platform for managing cryptocurrencies, making it the preferred choice for those who want full control over their digital assets on their computer.

Read more