Start safely — download and verification
Ledger Live Desktop® secure Setup & Security Guide begins before you click "install": download only from Ledger's official site and verify the release signature or checksum. Ledger publishes downloadable installers and signature files to ensure you’re running an authentic binary; comparing checksums prevents malicious fake apps from taking control of your machine. Official verification instructions are available on Ledger's signatures and support pages. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
Device initialization — PIN & recovery phrase
When setting up your Ledger hardware device during the Ledger Live flow, choose a strong PIN on the device screen (not your computer) and write the recovery phrase on the provided recovery card. The device prints or shows the words during initial setup — never type your recovery phrase into a computer or app. If you ever see an interface requesting your 24-word phrase, treat it as a scam and disconnect. Ledger's "Getting started" walkthrough details these steps. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
How Ledger Live Desktop works with your device
Ledger Live Desktop is an interface: your core private keys remain inside the Ledger device. When you send a transaction, the payload is sent to your hardware device for signing; signatures leave the device but the private key never does. That's the main security model of a hardware signer plus desktop companion.
Daily usage & features
Use Ledger Live Desktop to:
— Add accounts and view portfolio balances.
— Install or remove blockchain-specific apps on the device.
— Send and receive tokens (transactions signed on-device).
— Stake supported assets and monitor rewards.
Ledger support and the Ledger blog cover specific integrations and staking instructions. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
Protecting yourself from fake apps & phishing
Security incidents have shown that fake Ledger apps and installers appear in the wild; Mac users have been targeted with counterfeit installers that request seed phrases. Always confirm the source domain (ledger.com), compare signatures, and check recent news or support alerts. If anything requests your recovery phrase, it's a scam. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
Recommended backup & operational procedures
• Use offline (air-gapped) backup procedures where possible. • Store your recovery phrase in a fireproof, waterproof physical medium (steel backup is an option for high-value holdings). • Spread backups across secure geo-separated locations if your holdings justify it. • Rotate or reinitialize devices if you suspect compromise.
Updating Ledger Live and device firmware
Ledger issues periodic updates to Ledger Live and device firmware. Installing updates (after verifying signatures) keeps you protected from known vulnerabilities and enables new coins/features. Ledger Support lists "What's new" details and the release notes for Ledger Live updates. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}
Official resources
• Ledger Support — Download and install Ledger Live: support.ledger.com. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22} • Ledger Live signature verification: Ledger Live signatures. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23} • Ledger blog & security announcements: ledger.com/blog. :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}