What is Ledger® Live Desktop?

Ledger® Live Desktop is the official desktop application that pairs with Ledger® hardware wallets to let users manage crypto assets safely from their computer. It provides a local interface to view balances, send and receive transactions, install device apps, and verify addresses on your Ledger® hardware device. Crucially, private keys never leave the Ledger® device — Ledger® Live only reads signed data that the device approves.

Download & Install

Always get Ledger® Live Download from the official Ledger® domain. Choose the correct package for Windows, macOS or Linux and follow on-screen instructions. After installation, open the Ledger® Live App and select Get Started to connect your device.

Ledger® Live Wallet & Login Basics

Ledger® Live login is device-based: connect your Ledger® hardware, unlock it with your PIN, and approve the connection on the device screen. There is no cloud custody of your keys — which removes password-based single points of failure but means recovery depends on your recovery phrase (seed).

Troubleshooting Login Issues

If you encounter messages like "Ledger® Login not working", "Unable to login Ledger®", or "Can't verify Ledger® Wallet", run through these checks:

  • Use the original USB cable and try different ports; avoid passive/charging-only cables.
  • Unlock the device (enter PIN) before opening Ledger® Live.
  • Update Ledger® Live Desktop and firmware when prompted; outdated firmware often causes verification errors.
  • Check OS permissions (USB access on macOS and driver installation on Windows).

Account Recovery & 2FA Clarification

Ledger® account recovery uses your 24-word recovery phrase — not a built-in Ledger® 2FA. If you lose your device, you restore accounts using the recovery phrase on a new Ledger® device or compatible wallet. If a third-party service asks for a 2FA reset, that’s managed by that service, not by Ledger®.

Error Connecting Ledger® Account

Connection errors may come from driver conflicts, browser extensions, or OS-level blocks. Temporarily disable other crypto extensions, ensure drivers are installed, and restart both device and computer. Use the built-in diagnostic tools in Ledger® Live App if available.

When to Contact Ledger® Help Center

Seek official support if your device displays unknown addresses, you are asked to confirm unfamiliar transactions, or you suspect your recovery phrase was exposed. Never share your seed; Ledger® support will never ask for it.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where can I safely download Ledger® Live Desktop?
From the official Ledger® website only. Avoid mirrors or third-party downloads.
2. My Ledger® Live app is not detecting my device — what next?
Check the cable and port, unlock the device, update firmware, and reinstall drivers or the app.
3. Can I recover my wallet without the Ledger® device?
Yes — using your 24-word recovery phrase on another Ledger® device or compatible wallet that supports the same seed standard.
4. Is there a Ledger® 2FA I can reset?
Ledger® uses a seed-based recovery model; 2FA reset applies to external services, not the hardware wallet.
5. Why does Ledger® Live show an "Error Connecting Ledger® Account"?
Often due to driver/permission issues or outdated firmware. Follow the connection checklist and consult the Ledger® Help Center if it persists.