Ledger Live Desktop — Info & Safety

Trusted guidance for installing, verifying, and using Ledger Live Desktop securely.

Official guidance — informational

Understand Ledger Live Desktop: installation, verification, and best safety practices

This page explains how to verify the official application, install it safely, and use proven security habits to protect your crypto assets. The content is written for general informational purposes only.

What is Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live Desktop is the desktop application used to manage hardware wallets and interact with multiple cryptocurrency accounts. It provides portfolio views, transaction history, and firmware update utilities for supported Ledger devices.

Download & verify authenticity

Only obtain installers from the official source. Before running any installer, verify the file's integrity and authenticity if a checksum or digital signature is provided by the publisher.

  • Always download from the vendor's official site or an official app store listing. Avoid third-party download mirrors.
  • If checksums (SHA256) or signatures are published, compare them with the downloaded file using your OS tools.
  • Check browser address bar (HTTPS + correct domain) and, when in doubt, re-visit the official site by typing the URL manually instead of following unknown links.

Safe installation tips

Take a cautious approach during installation and initial setup.

  • Use a secure, personal computer free from suspicious software. Keep your OS and antivirus up to date.
  • Install only the version matching your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux) and prefer releases marked stable or LTS when available.
  • Review installer prompts carefully. Avoid accepting additional software or components that are unrelated to the application.

Everyday security practices

Security is layered: device security, application hygiene, and personal procedures together reduce risk.

  • Use the hardware wallet's screen and buttons to confirm transactions — never approve transactions blindly from the app.
  • Protect your recovery phrase: never enter it into a computer, never photograph it, and store it offline in a safe place.
  • Keep the desktop app and hardware firmware updated from official sources to receive security fixes and compatibility updates.
  • Prefer a dedicated device or a clean user account for crypto activities where practical.

Troubleshooting & support pointers

If something looks wrong, stop and investigate rather than proceeding.

  • Confirm application signatures/checksums if downloads behave unexpectedly.
  • When experiencing connection or recognition issues, try a different USB cable and avoid low-quality adapters.
  • Consult the official support resources or community channels linked on the vendor's authenticated site for step-by-step help.

Short FAQ

Q: Can the desktop app steal my recovery phrase?
A: Reputable desktop apps do not request your recovery phrase during normal use. If an app or a prompt asks for your recovery phrase, treat it as malicious and disconnect immediately.

Q: Is it safe to update firmware?
A: Firmware updates from the vendor are important for security. Follow published vendor instructions and verify update integrity when possible.

Disclaimer

This page is informational and not legal, financial, or technical advice. Always consult official documentation and support channels from the application vendor for authoritative guidance. Errors and best practices evolve — confirm details with up-to-date official resources.