Ledger Live Desktop — Secure Crypto Management

Why choose Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live is the desktop companion app that allows you to manage crypto assets safely and simply. With support for Ledger Nano X and Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Live relies on a certified Secure Element and the BOLOS architecture to keep private keys offline. Ledger Live Desktop brings the full capability of your hardware wallet to your computer: connect via USB or use Bluetooth Connectivity (available on Ledger Nano X) to sign transactions securely from your desktop workstation.

Simple set up and recovery

Setting up Ledger Live Desktop is designed to be accessible without sacrificing security. On first use you’ll create and verify a Recovery Phrase that is only ever shown on your device screen — never on the computer. If your device is ever lost or damaged, the Recovery Phrase enables you to restore funds on a new Ledger device. Ledger Live Desktop also integrates with the optional Ledger Recover service for managed recovery options according to your preferences.

Compatibility: Ledger Nano X and Ledger Nano S Plus

Ledger Live Desktop supports a wide range of Ledger hardware including the Ledger Nano X and Ledger Nano S Plus. The Ledger Nano X offers Bluetooth Connectivity for mobile freedom while maintaining the same industry-leading Secure Element. The Ledger Nano S Plus provides powerful offline key protection for users focused on desktop management. Ledger Live keeps both devices up to date with secure Firmware Updates and BOLOS patches.

Security architecture: Secure Element & BOLOS

The core of Ledger's protection is the certified Secure Element hardware and the BOLOS operating system. BOLOS isolates applications and secrets so that private keys never leave the Secure Element. Ledger Live Desktop acts as a user interface while all signing operations occur inside the Secure Element, ensuring your Recovery Phrase and private keys remain out of reach of malware or remote attackers.

Manage multiple assets — Multi-Currency Support

Ledger Live Desktop includes extensive Multi-Currency Support across hundreds of blockchains and tokens. Whether you hold Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana or many ERC-20 tokens, Ledger Live makes it easy to view balances, send, receive and track performance. Pairing Ledger Nano X or Ledger Nano S Plus with Ledger Live Desktop ensures each transaction is signed in the Secure Element after confirming on the device.

DeFi Integration and NFT Support

Ledger Live Desktop provides native and integrated access to decentralized finance (DeFi) through third-party apps and direct integrations. With Ledger Live, users can connect to DeFi protocols safely: signing DeFi transactions is done on the device itself. Ledger Live also supports modern collectibles with NFT Support — view, manage and receive NFTs in a way that keeps your private keys secure inside the Secure Element.

Bluetooth Connectivity and mobility

For users who want flexible setups, the Ledger Nano X offers Bluetooth Connectivity. While much of Ledger Live Desktop usage occurs over USB for maximal reliability, Bluetooth Connectivity allows the Nano X to pair with other devices when needed. Regardless of connection method, every action that matters — exposing public addresses or signing transactions — is confirmed on the hardware device itself.

Firmware Updates and ongoing security

Ledger Live Desktop manages Firmware Updates for your Ledger device. Firmware Updates are signed and verified to protect device integrity and to ship important security improvements and new features. Registering your device and regularly applying Firmware Updates through Ledger Live Desktop helps ensure the Secure Element and BOLOS remain current and protected.

Recovery Phrase and best practices

Ledger Live Desktop guides you through creating and safely storing your Recovery Phrase. Best practices include writing your Recovery Phrase on a durable, offline backup and never sharing it. Ledger Live Desktop never collects your Recovery Phrase — it only assists you in verifying the seed shown on your device. If you prefer, Ledger Recover provides an additional option for encrypted, split-key recovery in compliant jurisdictions.

Ledger Recover — controlled recovery options

Ledger Recover is an optional service that helps eligible users recover access to their funds if the device and seed are lost. It is implemented with careful cryptographic controls and user consent. Ledger Live Desktop surfaces the choices you have and makes adoption optional — the highest security remains with users who manage their own Recovery Phrase offline.

How Ledger Live Desktop improves everyday crypto

• Centralized management: View multiple accounts and assets with Multi-Currency Support.
• Hardware-backed security: Use Ledger Nano X or Ledger Nano S Plus with Secure Element protection.
• DeFi-friendly: Sign DeFi transactions safely with BOLOS isolation and device confirmation.
• NFT-ready: Browse and receive NFTs while keeping keys offline.
• Maintain control: Recovery Phrase practices and optional Ledger Recover give choices for safety and convenience.

Getting started with Ledger Live Desktop

To begin, download Ledger Live Desktop, plug in your Ledger Nano S Plus or pair your Ledger Nano X (Bluetooth Connectivity optional), and follow the in-app instructions to set up your accounts. Ledger Live will guide you through verifying your Recovery Phrase, installing apps to the device, and adding accounts for the coins and tokens you hold. Keep an eye on Ledger Live notifications for recommended Firmware Updates and critical security patches.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Does Ledger Live Desktop support both Ledger Nano X and Ledger Nano S Plus?
A: Yes — Ledger Live Desktop supports Ledger Nano X and Ledger Nano S Plus and leverages the Secure Element and BOLOS to keep your private keys protected.

Q: Can I use Bluetooth Connectivity with Ledger Live Desktop?
A: Bluetooth Connectivity is available on the Ledger Nano X. Desktop workflows typically use USB, but Bluetooth adds flexibility when needed.

Q: What if I lose my device?
A: Your Recovery Phrase allows you to restore funds to a new device. For additional options, Ledger Recover is available to eligible users.

Conclusion

Ledger Live Desktop is a powerful way to manage cryptocurrencies with the safety of a Secure Element and the flexibility of BOLOS. Whether you use Ledger Nano X with Bluetooth Connectivity or the compact Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Live helps you manage accounts, apply Firmware Updates, access DeFi integrations, and manage NFTs — all while keeping your private keys secured with best-practice cryptography and a strong Recovery Phrase workflow. Ledger Live Desktop — combined with Ledger Recover where appropriate — provides a manageably secure and modern environment for everyday crypto users.