Presentation · Practical guide to setup, security & best practices
Author: SecureOps · Length: ≈1500 words · Slides: 10
Overview: This short, colourful presentation covers Ledger Live's core features, secure setup, everyday use, backup & recovery, integration tips, and operational best practices for individuals and teams.
What is Ledger Live?
Secure, local management for your crypto assets
Core concept
Ledger Live is an application that connects to Ledger hardware wallets (e.g., Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X) and allows users to manage multiple blockchains and accounts from a single interface. The private keys remain on the hardware device — Ledger Live acts as a user-friendly, local manager and signer.
Key functions
Account creation & balance overview across many chains
Send / receive transactions with on-device confirmation
App & firmware updates (with safety checks)
Portfolio tracking and integrated swaps
Setup: Getting started securely
Step-by-step initial configuration
1. Obtain a genuine device
Buy directly from the manufacturer or an authorized reseller. Avoid second-hand devices. Verify tamper-evidence and unboxing integrity.
2. Install Ledger Live
Download Ledger Live from the official site. Verify checksums if available and keep your OS updated before installing.
3. Initialize your device
Follow on-screen instructions to create a new wallet or restore from a recovery phrase. Choose a strong PIN — the device will enforce retry limits.
Backup & Recovery
Protect the recovery phrase — it's the last line of defense
Recovery phrase practices
Write the 24-word seed on the official recovery sheet — do not store it digitally.
Use metal backups if you need long-term durability (fire & water resistant).
Consider geographic redundancy: split backups across trusted locations.
Do NOT:
Never take a photo, email, or cloud-store your recovery phrase. Never share it with anyone claiming to be support.
Daily Usage
How to send, receive, and verify transactions
Transaction flow
Open Ledger Live and select the account.
Initiate a transaction and review details on the desktop app.
Confirm and verify the full details on the hardware device screen before approving.
Tip
Always verify recipient addresses and amounts on the device. Attackers can try to spoof software displays.
Security Best Practices
Operational hygiene that reduces risk
Recommendations
Keep firmware & Ledger Live updated, but verify update prompts.
Use separate devices/accounts for cold storage vs spending.
Enable passphrases (advanced) for additional account-level security.
Be cautious of browser extensions and desktop malware.
Advanced: Passphrase
A passphrase acts like an additional word appended to your seed; it creates a distinct hidden wallet. Use with care — losing the passphrase means losing access.
Integrations & Ecosystem
Expand Ledger Live with apps and services
Common integrations
DeFi and dApp connectors (with on-device signature confirmation)
Third-party portfolio trackers (read-only API data)
Exchange & swap partners inside Ledger Live
Security note
Auditing permissions and using read-only integrations reduces compromise risk. Always confirm on-device whenever a signature is requested.
Troubleshooting
Common issues and safe fixes
Lost PIN or device locked
Resetting the device will erase keys; restore using your recovery phrase. If you don't possess the phrase, funds are irrecoverable.
Suspicious update or message
Contact official Ledger support via the website. Do not follow instructions from unsolicited emails or chats.
Ledger Live is ideal for hobbyists and serious holders who want strong custody without complex infrastructure.
For teams and organisations
Consider multi-sig arrangements, hardware inventory controls, and documented key-management policies. Use separate devices for signing vs storage.
Policy snippet
Document backup locations, rotation schedules, and the incident response plan if a device or recovery phrase is compromised.
Summary & Next Steps
Practical checklist to leave with
Quick checklist
Buy a genuine Ledger device and install Ledger Live.
Initialize with a strong PIN; write down the 24-word seed offline.
Store metal backup and consider geographic separation.
Verify all transactions on-device and update software safely.
Consider passphrases and multi-sig for higher-value custody.
Call to action
Start with a small transfer to test your setup. Keep learning — the crypto landscape evolves quickly. For more official resources, visit Ledger's official documentation or contact support.