Independent educational guide · Not an official Ledger website
DESKTOP WALLET GUIDE

One clear view of your crypto portfolio.

Get to know Ledger Live Desktop: the companion app for managing crypto accounts, following portfolio activity, and connecting a Ledger hardware wallet.

Always verify downloads on Ledger’s official website.
L Portfolio
◫◉⇄⚙
TOTAL BALANCE
$24,680.52
↗ 4.82% over the past month
YOUR ASSETSVALUE
₿BitcoinBTC · 0.1842$12,430.18
◆EthereumETH · 2.8400$8,916.24
✓Your keys, your controlApprove on your device
Illustrative interface · values are sample data
DESIGNED TO WORK WITH YOUR LEDGER DEVICELEARN BEFORE YOU CONNECT
AT A GLANCE

What is Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live is desktop software that works with a Ledger hardware wallet. It brings supported crypto accounts and wallet tools together in one place, while transactions are confirmed on your physical device.

01 / OVERVIEW

See your portfolio

Review account balances and activity in one interface. Portfolio values can change with market prices and network conditions.

Explore portfolio tools →
02 / CONNECTION

Connect your device

Pair your Ledger device with the desktop app to manage supported accounts and review transaction details before signing.

How device connection works →
03 / CONTROL

Manage with care

Check account activity, update supported apps, and keep signing authority with your hardware wallet.

See essential security tips →

Important: Ledger Live is a companion interface, not a place to store your recovery phrase. Never type your 24-word recovery phrase into a website, app, or computer.

YOUR FIRST SESSION

Get started, step by step.

Take a few moments to verify the app and get comfortable with the basics before managing assets.

Go to Ledger’s website Download links and compatibility details can change. Confirm the latest information directly with Ledger.
01

Download from the official source

Navigate to Ledger.com yourself and locate Ledger Live. Check the site address carefully, and avoid sponsored search results, unsolicited messages, and third-party download mirrors.

↗
02

Install and open the desktop app

Choose the version for your operating system from Ledger’s official download page. Follow the current setup instructions and allow the app to complete any recommended updates.

↗
03

Connect and verify your Ledger device

Use a trusted cable or supported connection method, unlock the device, and follow the on-screen prompts. Install or update device apps only through the app’s supported workflow.

↗
04

Add accounts and review activity

Add supported accounts and let the app synchronize. Compare addresses and transaction details on the device screen before approving anything.

↗
FEATURES EXPLAINED

Useful tools.
One desktop workspace.

Ledger Live Desktop is designed to help you interact with supported crypto accounts from your computer. Availability varies by asset, region, device, and app version.

Portfolio overview

Keep an eye on supported asset balances, account history, and portfolio movements. Displayed valuations are estimates and may differ from execution prices.

Account activity

Review incoming and outgoing transactions and confirm network details. Blockchain transactions are generally irreversible once confirmed.

Device and app management

Use supported workflows to connect a device and manage installed blockchain apps. Updates and available features can vary across devices.

Supported services

Some app versions surface additional services or integrations. Review fees, risks, regional access, and the service provider before using them.

HARDWARE WALLET + DESKTOP APP

Connection is not the same as custody.

The desktop app provides an interface for viewing accounts and preparing actions. Your Ledger device is where you review and physically approve transactions with your private keys.

Only approve an action if the details shown on the device display match what you intend to do. If the device shows something unexpected, reject the request and investigate.

Read the security checklist
SECURITY CHECKLIST

Keep your recovery phrase
offline. Always.

Good security habits matter just as much as the software you choose. Ledger will never need you to reveal your recovery phrase to use Ledger Live.

A

Protect your recovery phrase

Write it down and store it securely offline. Never share it, photograph it, paste it into a computer, or enter it into an app or website.

B

Verify each transaction

Check the recipient address, amount, and network on your Ledger device screen. Do not rely only on information shown on your computer.

C

Check URLs and messages

Visit Ledger’s site directly. Treat urgent messages, fake support accounts, remote-access requests, and unexpected recovery checks as red flags.

D

Keep software current

Use the official app source and read update instructions carefully. Never install device firmware or wallet software from links sent by strangers.

No legitimate support agent needs your recovery phrase. Anyone asking for it can take control of your crypto assets.

QUICK ANSWERS

Ledger Live Desktop FAQ

Clear answers to common questions about the desktop companion app.

Is Ledger Live Desktop free to download?

Check Ledger’s official website for current download availability and regional details. Some third-party services accessible through wallet software may have their own fees; review the terms before using them.

Does Ledger Live hold my recovery phrase?

No. Your 24-word recovery phrase should remain private and offline. Never enter it into Ledger Live, a support chat, a web form, or any other connected device.

Can I use Ledger Live without a Ledger device?

Features depend on the version and workflow. Ledger Live is designed as a companion app for Ledger hardware wallets; consult Ledger’s official documentation for current requirements.

Why is an asset or account not appearing?

Asset and network support can vary. Confirm you are using the current app, the correct account, and the appropriate network, then consult official Ledger support documentation. Never share your recovery phrase to troubleshoot.

Where should I download Ledger Live?

Use Ledger’s official site, typed directly into your browser: ledger.com/ledger-live. Verify the domain before downloading and avoid unofficial mirrors.

READY TO LEARN MORE?

Start with the official source.

Check Ledger’s website for the latest downloads, supported assets, device compatibility, and help documentation.

Visit Ledger.com
This independent guide is for general educational purposes and is not financial, investment, tax, or security advice. Ledger and Ledger Live are trademarks of their respective owners. This website is not affiliated with Ledger.