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Ledger Live Desktop: Securely Manage Crypto from Your Computer

For those serious about managing digital assets securely, Ledger Live Desktop is the ultimate solution. Paired with Ledger’s trusted hardware wallets like the Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Ledger Stax, this desktop application puts complete control of your cryptocurrency right at your fingertips—while ensuring your private keys stay offline.

This article explores everything you need to know about Ledger Live Desktop: how to download it securely, key features, supported platforms, and why it’s the go-to crypto dashboard for millions of users around the world.

What Is Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop is the official Ledger application built for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It serves as the command center for your Ledger hardware wallet, enabling you to:

  • Safely send and receive crypto
  • Buy, sell, or swap thousands of coins
  • Stake assets for rewards
  • Access NFTs and DeFi tools
  • Manage your portfolio in real-time

Unlike browser extensions or web-based wallets, Ledger Live Desktop ensures that every transaction must be confirmed on your Ledger hardware device, adding an extra layer of security.

Key Features of Ledger Live Desktop

Here’s what makes Ledger Live Desktop stand out from other crypto management tools:

🔐 Offline Security with Ledger Integration

Ledger Live Desktop never exposes your private keys. All actions—from sending crypto to installing apps—must be physically approved using your Ledger device, protecting you from online threats.

📊 Real-Time Portfolio Tracking

Track your full crypto portfolio—including balances, gains/losses, and transaction history—across multiple wallets and tokens in a unified dashboard.

💱 Buy, Sell & Swap in One App

Buy crypto with fiat, sell assets, or swap between tokens directly within Ledger Live Desktop through integrated partners—without leaving the secure environment.

🪙 Built-in Staking Functionality

Ledger Live supports staking for Ethereum, Tezos, Solana, Cosmos, Polkadot, and others. Stake directly through the app and earn passive rewards while maintaining custody.

🖼️ NFT Support

Securely manage Ethereum and Polygon NFTs. View collections with rich metadata, send/receive NFTs, and explore them in your Ledger wallet—all from your desktop.

🌐 Access to Web3 & DeFi

Ledger Live integrates with Web3 apps, allowing you to connect to DeFi platforms and DApps using your Ledger hardware wallet and third-party tools like MetaMask.

How to Download Ledger Live Desktop Securely

Ledger Live Desktop is free to download—but to stay safe, you must only download from the official Ledger website.

✅ Step 1: Visit the Official Site

Go to Ledger.com/start or Ledger.com/ledger-live.

✅ Step 2: Choose the Desktop Version

Ledger Live is available for:

  • Windows 8.1 or later
  • macOS 10.14 or later
  • Linux Ubuntu 16.10+ (AppImage available)

Click “Download for Desktop” and select your operating system.

✅ Step 3: Install and Launch

After downloading:

  1. Install the application on your computer.
  2. Open the app and connect your Ledger hardware wallet.
  3. Follow setup instructions to install coin apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
  4. Add accounts and begin managing your crypto securely.

Why Choose Ledger Live Desktop Over Mobile?

While Ledger Live Mobile offers portability, the desktop version is more powerful, especially for advanced users.

FeatureLedger Live DesktopLedger Live MobileDevice SupportAll Ledger modelsNano X, Stax onlyNFT ManagementFullLimitedCoin App InstallationAvailableLimitedDeFi/DApp IntegrationEasier with browserRestrictedMultiple Account SupportRobustSimplified


If you use Ledger Nano S Plus, you’ll need Ledger Live Desktop, as mobile doesn’t support USB connectivity.

Supported Assets on Ledger Live Desktop

Ledger Live supports over 5,500 crypto assets, including:

  • Bitcoin (BTC)
  • Ethereum (ETH) + ERC-20 tokens
  • Solana (SOL)
  • Cardano (ADA)
  • XRP, BNB, DOT, AVAX, and more

It also includes support for NFTs on Ethereum and Polygon and staking support for select coins.

Extra Features to Explore in Ledger Live Desktop

🔄 Swap with Full Control

Use swap services integrated within the app (like Changelly, Paraswap, or 1inch) while maintaining full control of your funds.

📥 Firmware & App Updates

Get alerts when your Ledger device firmware or apps need updates, and apply them safely via Ledger Live.

🔎 Transparency & Audit Logs

Every transaction, app installation, and staking action is logged clearly for auditing and transparency.

🔧 Advanced Settings

Configure custom nodes, access developer tools, and fine-tune settings for expert-level control.