Introduction
Ledger Live Desktop provides a unified and secure environment for managing your crypto portfolio. It integrates account management, transaction signing, and firmware updates — all while your private keys remain securely within your Ledger hardware wallet.
Installing Ledger Live
Download Ledger Live Desktop from the official ledger.com/start page. Choose your platform — Windows, macOS, or Linux — and follow the guided setup. Avoid unofficial sources to prevent tampering.
Connecting Your Device
Once installed, open the application and plug in your Ledger device. If prompted, allow the computer to communicate with the device. Follow the on-screen instructions to unlock it and open the corresponding coin application. Confirm that the Ledger Live dashboard detects the connection.
Managing Accounts
Within the Accounts tab, you can add, label, and track assets. Each supported blockchain (such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Solana) requires a small device application. Ledger Live fetches blockchain data through secure APIs, displaying balances, recent transactions, and portfolio analytics.
Protecting Your Assets
Always confirm all critical transaction details on the hardware screen. Never disclose your recovery phrase — it’s your ultimate key. Ledger support will never ask for it. Regularly check for firmware updates to maintain security integrity and benefit from new protocol integrations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Ledger Live on multiple computers?
Yes. Simply install the app on another machine and connect your device. No private data is stored on your computer; your keys stay in the device.
Is Ledger Live open-source?
Parts of Ledger Live are open-source, allowing community transparency and verification of cryptographic safety.
Does Ledger Live support staking?
Yes, for certain assets like Ethereum, Polkadot, and Cosmos, staking is available within the app with clear APY indicators.