Ledger Live Desktop Setup — Step-by-Step & Security Model

What is Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live (now also presented as Ledger Wallet in some pages) is the official desktop app that connects to your Ledger hardware device so private keys never leave the device and transactions require physical confirmation on the hardware signer. Download only from Ledger's official site. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Before you begin — safety checklist

• Only download Ledger Live from the official page: ledger.com/ledger-live-download. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
• Never enter or share your recovery (seed) phrase with anyone or into any app/browser. Ledger will never ask for it. (Recent scams distribute fake apps that ask for seed phrases.) :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
• Have the Ledger hardware (Nano S/Plus/Gen5/etc.) and its original box/manual ready; record the recovery phrase on paper only (no digital copy).
• Use an up-to-date OS and avoid public/shared machines for initial setup.

Step 1 — Download & install Ledger Live Desktop

1. Open the official Ledger download page: ledger.com/ledger-live-download. Choose your OS (Windows / macOS / Linux) and download the installer. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
2. Verify the installer if offered (on some platforms Ledger provides hashes/signatures). Then run the installer and follow on-screen steps.
3. Open Ledger Live after install. The app will often prompt to update to the latest version — accept secure updates. Ledger publishes release notes on support pages. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Step 2 — Set up your Ledger device (if new)

1. Power on your Ledger device and follow the on-device setup: choose a PIN and write down the recovery phrase (24 words for most Ledger devices) on the recovery card provided. Do not photograph or store it digitally.
2. Verify the recovery phrase on the device if prompted. If the phrase was ever entered into software — assume compromise and reset the device using a new phrase generated on the device. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

Step 3 — Connect Ledger Live to your device & create/import wallet

Create a new wallet (new device)

1. Open Ledger Live and choose Get started → Set up a device. Select your device model.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions: select “Create a new device” if you made a new recovery phrase on the device, or “Restore device” if you already have a recovery phrase from another hardware wallet.
3. Ledger Live will ask to install coin apps on the device (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). Install the app(s) you plan to use via Ledger Live's Manager/Apps section.

Import / Restore a wallet (using recovery phrase)

1. If restoring, choose Restore device on the Ledger device itself and enter your recovery phrase using the device buttons/touchscreen — never type it into Ledger Live or any website. After restore, connect the device and Ledger Live will detect the accounts. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
2. To add accounts in Ledger Live: go to Accounts → + Add account, pick the coin and follow prompts; Ledger Live will read public addresses from the device. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

Step 4 — How to use Ledger Live (basic flows)

1. Receive: In Ledger Live -> Accounts -> Receive. Pick the account, verify the receiving address on your Ledger device screen (always verify on-device), then copy/paste that address to sender. Never trust an address shown only on your computer screen without checking the device.
2. Send: In Ledger Live -> Accounts -> Send. Enter destination address and amount. Ledger Live builds the transaction but you must confirm on the device to sign it physically. Transactions are not broadcast until device approval.
3. Swap / Buy / Stake: Ledger Live integrates partners for swapping and buying. These are third-party services; Ledger provides integrations but does not custody your funds. Review partner terms before using.

Understanding the Security Model (core explanation)

Ledger's security model separates the signing environment (your hardware device) from the networked application (Ledger Live). Private keys and the recovery secret are generated and stored inside the secure element of the hardware device and never leave it. All transaction signing requires a physical action on the device (button press / touchscreen). This protects against remote malware that cannot extract keys. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

Key threat vectors & mitigations

• Phishing / fake apps: Attackers may distribute fake Ledger installers that ask for your recovery phrase. Only download from ledger.com and verify signatures where available. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
• Device compromise: If you suspect your device is tampered with, stop usage and restore funds to a new device with a freshly generated recovery phrase.
• Recovery phrase exposure: The recovery phrase is the ultimate key — treat it like the master key to your funds. Ledger offers a Recovery Check app to verify backups without exposing the phrase. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
• Third-party integrations: Ledger Live can use exchanges and swap partners. These integrations do not gain your private keys, but you trade privacy and counterparty dependence when using them.

Advanced tips (trust & hygiene)

• Keep Ledger Live updated and review Ledger release notes for security notices. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
• Consider hardware redundancy for large holdings: split funds across multiple devices and use multisig if needed (Ledger offers multisig tooling). :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
• Never store seeds in cloud, screenshots or password managers — only write on hardcopy.
• Regularly review your device using the on-device Recovery Check or verification features if available. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}