Getting™ Started | Ledger® Live: Desktop® — official (EN-us)

In the rapidly evolving world of digital assets, security and ease of access are paramount. For holders of Ledger hardware wallets, the cornerstone of this balanced ecosystem is Ledger Live Desktop, the official companion application that transforms your computer into a command center for your cryptocurrency portfolio.

Ledger Live Desktop is far more than a simple balance checker. It is a powerful, all-in-one platform designed to give you complete control over your assets while leveraging the unmatched security of your Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Nano X. By connecting your hardware wallet to the desktop application, you create an impregnable fortress for your private keys—they never leave the secure chip of your Ledger device—while enjoying an intuitive interface to manage, grow, and transact your crypto.

Why Choose the Desktop Application?

The Ledger Live Desktop version offers distinct advantages for both novice and experienced users. Its expansive screen real estate provides a clearer, more comprehensive overview of your entire portfolio. Track the real-time value of your investments across multiple accounts with sleek graphs and detailed breakdowns. The process is streamlined: install the application from Ledger’s official website, connect and unlock your Ledger device, and let the app automatically install the necessary blockchain applications.

Functionality is at the heart of Ledger Live Desktop. Key features include:

• Secure Management: Buy, sell, send, and receive hundreds of cryptocurrencies directly within the app. Every transaction must be physically verified and approved on your connected Ledger device, ensuring you are the only person in control.
• Staking & Earning: Put your idle assets to work. Easily stake popular coins like Ethereum (ETH), Polkadot (DOT), and Cardano (ADA) directly from the interface to earn rewards, all while your keys remain secure offline.
• Swap Integration: Instantly exchange one cryptocurrency for another through Ledger’s integrated partner services. Swaps are executed securely without ever exposing your private keys to a third party.
• Portfolio Insights: Get a consolidated view of your net worth across currencies with advanced charts and historical performance tracking.

Security First, Always

Ledger Live Desktop is engineered with a security-first philosophy. It acts as a trusted gateway between the blockchain and your hardware wallet. The application itself is non-custodial; it never holds your coins or your private recovery phrase. Its primary role is to broadcast signed transactions (verified by you on your device) to the blockchain. Regular, automatic updates ensure you always have the latest security patches and support for new coins and features, delivered directly from Ledger.

Getting Started is Simple

Ready to take command? Download Ledger Live Desktop exclusively from the official Ledger website to avoid malicious software. The installation is a quick, guided process. Once set up, you can create new accounts for different cryptocurrencies, manage your existing holdings, and explore the full suite of financial services available—all from a single, unified dashboard on your Windows or macOS computer.

Embrace the confidence that comes with ultimate security paired with effortless management. Ledger Live Desktop is the essential bridge that connects the ironclad protection of cold storage with the dynamic, active world of cryptocurrency management. Transform your computer into a secure crypto hub and navigate the digital asset landscape with unparalleled peace of mind and control.