Manage supported accounts
Organize accounts, review activity and find network-specific balances from a single desktop view.
DESKTOP WALLET GUIDE / UPDATED FOR 2026
Start with clarity.
Stay in control.
A practical guide to Ledger Live Desktop—from connecting your device and viewing your portfolio to making transactions with confidence.
Security-first guidance. Your recovery phrase stays offline.
Your accounts, viewed in one place
YOUR KEYS,
YOUR CONTROL
YOUR CONTROL
THE DESKTOP COMPANIONA clearer way to get oriented
01 / THE ESSENTIALS
One desktop hub.
Your hardware wallet in charge.
Ledger Live Desktop is companion software for viewing supported crypto accounts and managing workflows with a Ledger hardware wallet. The app provides the interface; your device is used to review and approve transactions.
Understand the security model01
Follow portfolio activity
See an overview of supported assets and historical movements. Portfolio valuations are estimates, not guaranteed sale prices.
Connect a signing device
Pair a compatible device, unlock it, and follow the on-screen prompts to access device-backed features.
Review before you approve
Confirm recipient details and network on your device display before approving a transaction.
02 / GETTING STARTED
From first launch
to connected device.
Take your time with each step. Use Ledger’s official documentation for device-specific instructions and current app requirements.
01
Download from the source
Go directly to Ledger’s official website and choose the desktop download for your operating system. Check the address before installing.
Official download page02
Open and choose your setup
Follow the app’s welcome flow. If you already own a device, choose the option that matches your situation and read each prompt carefully.
Never restore using a phrase typed on your computer03
Connect and unlock
Use a reliable data cable, connect the device, and unlock it with its PIN. Keep the device physically with you during setup.
Use a cable that supports data04
Verify on the device
When adding accounts or approving actions, read the device screen independently and approve only details you recognize.
Review security basics03 / EVERYDAY USE
Know what you’re
looking at.
Portfolio screens make it easier to follow activity across supported accounts. A little context helps you read balances and approach transaction approvals without surprises.
Read the security checklistA QUICK REFERENCEDESKTOP
Balances & portfolio
01Estimates may vary by price source, refresh time and supported assets.
Receiving crypto
02Match the receiving network and address; verify the address on your device when available.
Sending crypto
03Check the full destination, network and fees before reviewing the transaction on-device.
Transactions can be irreversible. Verify every detail.
04 / SECURITY, ALWAYS
Good habits are
your strongest feature.
Slow down when something feels urgent. Legitimate support will never need your recovery phrase.
PAUSE.
VERIFY.
THEN APPROVE.
VERIFY.
THEN APPROVE.
Keep your recovery phrase private
Store it offline in a secure place. Never photograph it, share it, or enter it on a computer, phone, or website.
Download only from Ledger
Type the official address yourself. Avoid lookalike domains, ads, unsolicited links and unofficial software mirrors.
Trust the device screen
Review the recipient address, network and amount on the hardware wallet itself—not only on your computer display.
Stay alert to impersonation
Ignore unexpected messages asking you to validate, synchronize or unlock your wallet by revealing your recovery phrase.
Update with care
Use the app’s built-in update guidance or Ledger’s official website, and read release and device prompts before continuing.
05 / GOOD TO KNOW
Questions, clearly answered.
For the latest compatibility and troubleshooting advice, check Ledger’s official help resources.
Visit Ledger SupportWhat is Ledger Live Desktop?
Ledger Live is companion software designed to work with Ledger hardware wallets. Its desktop experience brings supported account management, portfolio views and transaction workflows together in one place. Availability of assets and features can vary by region, device and software version.
Can I use Ledger Live without a hardware wallet?
Some information and features may be viewable without connecting a device, but a Ledger hardware wallet is required to manage assets with Ledger hardware-backed signing. Always verify the current requirements on Ledger’s official website.
Where should I download Ledger Live?
Use only Ledger’s official website at ledger.com/ledger-live. Avoid sponsored search results, download mirrors, direct messages and links sent by strangers. Check the domain carefully before downloading.
Does Ledger Live store my recovery phrase?
Your recovery phrase should remain private and offline. Never type it into Ledger Live, a website, a support chat or a computer. Anyone who obtains it can take control of the assets associated with it.
Why does my portfolio value differ from an exchange?
Portfolio estimates can use different market data sources, refresh times, currencies and asset coverage. Displayed values are informational estimates and may not match an exchange quote or the amount available to trade.
What should I do if my device is not detected?
Unlock the device, use a known-good data-capable USB cable, try another port, close other wallet applications and update Ledger Live from the official source. Follow official support guidance; never share your recovery phrase to troubleshoot.
KEEP LEARNING
Use official sources
for the latest steps.
Features and device instructions can change. Confirm current details directly with Ledger before you download or make changes.
This is an independent educational guide and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by Ledger. Product names belong to their respective owners. This page is not financial advice.