Ledger Live Desktop: Getting Started

Welcome to the official Ledger Live Desktop setup guide. Manage your cryptocurrency portfolio securely with our powerful desktop application for Windows, macOS, and Linux.

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Your Desktop Setup Progress

1. Download
2. Install
3. Initialize
4. Manage
5. Secure

Why Choose Ledger Live Desktop?

Desktop Optimized

Ledger Live Desktop provides a full-screen experience optimized for desktop workflows. Enjoy larger portfolio views, advanced charting tools, and seamless multi-tasking while managing your cryptocurrency assets.

Enhanced Performance

Experience faster synchronization, quicker transaction processing, and improved responsiveness with our native desktop application. Desktop performance ensures smooth portfolio management even with large crypto holdings.

Maximum Security

Your private keys remain secure within your Ledger hardware wallet. Ledger Live Desktop connects to your device to authorize transactions, ensuring your assets are protected from online threats while benefiting from desktop security features.

Ledger Live Desktop Setup Guide

1

Download Ledger Live Desktop

Visit the official Ledger website and download the Ledger Live Desktop application for your operating system. Choose between Windows (64-bit), macOS (Intel and Apple Silicon), or Linux distributions. The download file is approximately 150MB.

Security Tip: Always verify the download source and check the digital signature to ensure you're installing the genuine Ledger Live Desktop application.

2

Install the Desktop Application

Run the installer and follow the platform-specific installation instructions. On Windows, you may need administrator privileges. On macOS, drag the application to your Applications folder. On Linux, use the provided package or AppImage.

Note: Ledger Live Desktop creates a secure local database to store your portfolio information and application settings on your computer.

3

Initialize Your Ledger Device

Connect your Ledger hardware wallet via USB cable. Ledger Live Desktop will automatically detect your device and guide you through the setup process. Follow the on-screen instructions to initialize your device or restore from recovery phrase.

Important: Desktop setup provides the most comprehensive initialization experience with detailed guidance and troubleshooting assistance.

4

Configure Desktop Preferences

Customize your Ledger Live Desktop experience through the settings menu. Adjust display preferences, notification settings, currency display options, and security features. Enable dark mode for reduced eye strain during extended desktop sessions.

Desktop Exclusive: Access advanced features like multiple portfolio views, export functionality, and detailed transaction history analysis.

5

Manage Your Desktop Portfolio

Explore Ledger Live Desktop's comprehensive features including portfolio tracking with advanced charts, buying crypto with fiat, staking assets for rewards, and connecting to DeFi applications. All transactions require physical confirmation on your Ledger device.

Desktop Advantages: Larger screen real estate enables better portfolio overview and more efficient management of multiple cryptocurrency accounts.

Desktop System Requirements

Windows

Windows 10/11

64-bit version required

4GB RAM minimum

200MB free disk space

USB port for device connection

macOS

macOS 10.14+

Intel or Apple Silicon

4GB RAM minimum

200MB free disk space

USB-C or USB-A port

Linux

Ubuntu/Debian

64-bit distribution

4GB RAM minimum

200MB free disk space

USB support required

Desktop-Specific Advantages

Full Screen Experience

Ledger Live Desktop utilizes your entire screen real estate, providing comprehensive portfolio overviews, detailed transaction histories, and advanced charting tools that are optimized for desktop monitors and workflows.

Enhanced Performance

Desktop applications typically offer better performance than web-based solutions. Enjoy faster synchronization with blockchain networks, quicker transaction processing, and smoother navigation through your cryptocurrency portfolio.

Offline Capabilities

While internet connection is required for most operations, Ledger Live Desktop can display your portfolio history and transaction details offline. Your private keys remain secure on your hardware wallet at all times.

Data Export Features

Desktop version includes advanced export functionality for tax reporting and portfolio analysis. Export transaction histories, portfolio snapshots, and performance reports in various formats for external analysis.

Download Ledger Live Desktop

Get started with secure desktop cryptocurrency management today

Windows

64-bit .exe

macOS

.dmg package

Linux

AppImage

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ledger Live Desktop different from the web version? +
Yes, Ledger Live Desktop is a native application installed on your computer, while the web version runs in your browser. The desktop version offers better performance, enhanced security features, offline capabilities, and a user interface optimized for larger screens. Both versions connect to your Ledger hardware wallet for transaction signing, but the desktop application provides a more comprehensive cryptocurrency management experience.
Can I use Ledger Live Desktop on multiple computers? +
Yes, you can install Ledger Live Desktop on multiple computers. Your portfolio data is stored locally on each device, but you can synchronize your accounts by connecting your Ledger hardware wallet. The application settings and preferences are device-specific, but your cryptocurrency accounts and transaction history will be consistent across installations when you connect your Ledger device.
Does Ledger Live Desktop work without internet? +
Ledger Live Desktop requires an internet connection for most operations, including synchronizing with blockchain networks, checking balances, and sending transactions. However, you can view your transaction history and portfolio information offline. For full functionality, including the latest cryptocurrency prices and blockchain synchronization, an active internet connection is necessary. Your private keys remain secure on your Ledger device regardless of connectivity.
How do I update Ledger Live Desktop? +
Ledger Live Desktop includes an automatic update mechanism. When a new version is available, you'll receive a notification within the application. You can manually check for updates in the settings menu. The update process downloads and installs the new version while preserving your portfolio data and settings. Regular updates ensure you have the latest security enhancements and feature improvements for managing your cryptocurrencies.

Ready to Secure Your Cryptocurrencies on Desktop?

Download Ledger Live Desktop today and take control of your digital assets