Welcome & objective
This short live presentation walks participants through Ledger Live Desktop: what it is, why it matters, how to install it safely, and how to perform your first send/receive while keeping keys protected on a Ledger hardware device. By the end of the session attendees will have installed Ledger Live, connected their Ledger, and executed a low‑value test transaction.
What is Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is the official companion app for Ledger hardware wallets. It provides a user interface to manage accounts, view portfolio balances, install blockchain apps on your device, and sign transactions. Crucially, private keys remain inside the Ledger device; Ledger Live composes transactions but does not expose sensitive secrets.
Installation: safety first
Download only from the official Ledger site or verified app stores. Verify checksums if possible. Avoid links from social media or emails. Install the desktop app (Windows/macOS/Linux) and allow USB access when prompted. If your device supports Bluetooth, use it cautiously and prefer USB for the initial setup.
Initial setup & pairing
- Open Ledger Live and choose “Get started” → “Set up a new device” or “Restore from recovery phrase.”
- Follow on‑screen prompts and initialize the Ledger device: set a PIN and write down the recovery phrase shown on the device only.
- Connect the device to Ledger Live and allow the app to discover supported apps and accounts.
Never enter your recovery phrase into Ledger Live or share it with anyone — keep it offline and secure.
Adding an account
In Ledger Live, go to Accounts → Add account. Select the blockchain (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum), connect your device and open the corresponding app on the Ledger. Ledger Live will scan and show your account; confirm on the device. You can add multiple accounts for organizational or privacy reasons.
Send & receive (live demo)
- To receive: choose an account → Receive → copy the address and verify the same address is shown on your Ledger screen before sharing it.
- To send: choose an account → Send → enter destination address and amount → set fee → confirm details on Ledger device and sign.
Always verify recipient address, amount and fee on the physical device — the device display is the final authority against host compromises.
Security highlights
- Private keys never leave the Ledger device.
- Set a strong PIN and keep your recovery phrase offline (consider a metal backup).
- Use passphrase feature only if you understand the recovery implications.
Troubleshooting quick tips
If the device is not recognized: try a different USB cable/port, reboot Ledger Live, or update drivers. For sync issues, check Ledger’s status pages. If you forget your PIN, the device will wipe after multiple failed attempts — restore with your recovery phrase.
Live session script (speaker notes)
Start with the banner slide and objectives. Show a live download from ledger.com. Walk through initializing a demo device (or use a test device). Add an account and perform a small receive + send with a tiny amount. Emphasize verifying details on the device screen and the importance of backing up the recovery phrase.
Closing & next steps
Encourage attendees to practice with small amounts and to create a secure backup plan for their recovery phrase. For organizational use, discuss multisig and operational custody workflows. Provide links to official Ledger support and GitHub for further reading (share via chat or slides so participants can visit safely).