Ledger® Live: Desktop | Getting Started With Ledger® Support
In the evolving world of cryptocurrency, security and convenience are non-negotiable. With the increase in digital threats, more users are turning to hardware wallets to store their assets safely. At the forefront of this movement is Ledger®, a world-renowned provider of secure hardware wallets. To complement these devices, Ledger offers Ledger Live: Desktop, a powerful, user-friendly application designed to manage, monitor, and grow your crypto portfolio—all from your computer.
Whether you're new to crypto or a seasoned investor, Ledger Live Desktop is your essential starting point. This guide walks you through what it is, how it works, and how to get started with official Ledger® support.
What Is Ledger® Live: Desktop?
Ledger Live Desktop is the official companion app for Ledger hardware wallets, designed for macOS, Windows, and Linux systems. It provides a secure interface between your Ledger device and the blockchain, enabling you to manage multiple cryptocurrencies without exposing your private keys.
Unlike browser-based wallets, Ledger Live doesn't rely on extensions or third-party apps to manage your crypto. Instead, it integrates everything you need in one place—portfolio tracking, transactions, staking, and even access to decentralized applications (dApps).
Key Features of Ledger Live Desktop
🔐 Offline Security Meets Online Functionality
While Ledger devices keep your private keys stored offline, Ledger Live Desktop acts as your command center. Every transaction must be approved via your physical device, ensuring that even if your computer is compromised, your crypto remains safe.
📊 Real-Time Portfolio Monitoring
Ledger Live lets you track your total portfolio value, view individual asset performance, and access historical data—all in real time. This makes it easier to make informed decisions, whether you're holding for the long term or managing multiple assets.
💰 Send and Receive Crypto Safely
You can send and receive coins directly from the app. Ledger Live generates addresses for you, and all outbound transactions must be confirmed via your Ledger device—adding a second layer of protection.
🔁 Swap, Buy, and Sell Crypto
Thanks to built-in integrations with trusted providers, you can:
- Buy crypto using a credit card or bank transfer
- Swap one asset for another without sending funds to an exchange
- Sell your holdings in supported regions
All of this can be done directly within Ledger Live Desktop.
🪙 Staking and Earning Rewards
Ledger Live allows users to stake supported tokens like Ethereum (ETH), Tezos (XTZ), Cosmos (ATOM), and Polkadot (DOT). Through staking, you can earn passive rewards while helping support the network.
🌐 Access Web3 and dApps Securely
By connecting with Ledger Extension and compatible wallets, Ledger Live allows you to interact with DeFi platforms, NFT marketplaces, and other dApps without risking exposure of your private keys.
Getting Started With Ledger Live Desktop
1. Download From the Official Source
Visit the official Ledger website and navigate to the Ledger Live section. Always verify the domain to avoid downloading fake or compromised software.
2. Install and Launch the App
After downloading, install the app and launch it. You’ll be prompted to:
- Set your preferred language
- Choose between Dark or Light Mode
- Enable password lock for added local security
3. Connect Your Ledger Device
Use a USB cable to connect your Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X. The app will perform a genuine check to ensure your device hasn’t been tampered with.
4. Add Cryptocurrency Accounts
Install blockchain-specific apps on your Ledger device (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). Then, in Ledger Live, add the corresponding accounts to begin managing your assets.
5. Begin Managing Your Portfolio
With everything set up, you can:
- Send/receive transactions
- Track your balance
- Install more apps
- Buy or sell crypto
- Access staking and Web3 features
Supported Coins and Tokens
Ledger Live supports 5,500+ cryptocurrencies, including:
- Bitcoin (BTC)
- Ethereum (ETH) and ERC-20 tokens
- Solana (SOL)
- Ripple (XRP)
- Litecoin (LTC)
- Cardano (ADA)
- Binance Smart Chain (BNB & BEP-20)
- Stablecoins like USDT and USDC
Ledger® Support: Reliable Help When You Need It
Ledger provides official support via:
- Help Center: In-depth articles and setup guides
- Live Chat: Assistance from Ledger agents
- Community Forums: Engage with other users
- Ledger Academy: Learn about crypto, DeFi, and wallet safety
If you ever run into setup issues, transaction concerns, or device questions, always go through official Ledger support channels. Never share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone, not even support agents.
Final Thoughts
Ledger Live: Desktop brings powerful crypto management tools into one secure platform. Whether you’re checking your balance, sending coins, staking tokens, or accessing decentralized finance, Ledger Live ensures that everything is done with your security in mind.
When paired with a Ledger hardware wallet, the desktop app offers one of the safest and most convenient ways to manage digital assets. With support from the official Ledger team and a user-friendly interface, getting started is easier than ever. Your crypto journey begins with trust—and Ledger provides exactly that.