Welcome to Ledger, the global leader in hardware wallets for cryptocurrency. Owning crypto is empowering, but it also comes with responsibility. Ledger gives you full control of your digital assets while keeping them safe from hacks, malware, and phishing attacks.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to start with Ledger safely: unboxing, device setup, Ledger Live installation, account management, sending and receiving crypto, and best security practices. By following these steps, you ensure your crypto remains fully under your control.
When it comes to cryptocurrency, security is non-negotiable. Unlike software wallets or exchanges that hold your private keys, Ledger hardware wallets store them offline in a secure element, similar to the technology used in passports and banking cards. This offline storage protects your assets from hackers and malware.
Ledger gives you:
Owning a Ledger wallet means no one—not an exchange, not a third-party service—can move your crypto without your explicit approval.
Before you start, make sure you have:
⚠️ Important: Never share your recovery phrase online or take a photo of it. Anyone with access to these 24 words can control your crypto.
Begin by unboxing your Ledger device. Make sure the packaging is intact and untampered with. Ledger devices are shipped sealed to help detect interference. If you notice any unusual signs—broken seals, scratches, or missing accessories—contact official support before continuing.
Handling the device with care during setup ensures that your private keys remain secure from the very beginning.
Ledger Live is the companion app that manages your crypto. It allows you to install blockchain-specific apps, manage accounts, send and receive assets, and monitor your portfolio.
Steps to install Ledger Live:
Ledger Live ensures that all account management and firmware updates are conducted securely.
Connect your device to your computer or smartphone. Power it on and select “Set up as a new device.”
You’ll be prompted to create a PIN directly on your device. This is the first layer of protection against unauthorized access. Make it memorable but hard for others to guess.
Next, the device generates a 24-word recovery phrase, your only backup in case the device is lost, stolen, or damaged.
Important instructions:
Confirm some of the words on your device to verify that you have recorded them correctly. This step ensures that your wallet can be restored securely if needed.
After initializing your device, you can add cryptocurrency accounts in Ledger Live. Ledger supports thousands of assets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and a wide range of altcoins and tokens.
How to add an account:
Every transaction—sending or receiving crypto—requires confirmation on the device itself, protecting your funds from malware and unauthorized access.
To receive crypto:
To send crypto:
Physical verification ensures that even if your computer is compromised, your crypto cannot be stolen.
Ledger will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase. Be cautious of:
Best practices:
Following these practices ensures that your assets remain secure even in an environment filled with online threats.
Ledger devices offer optional advanced security features:
Always confirm all transactions physically on your device when using these advanced features to maintain security.
If your device is lost or damaged, you can restore your crypto on a new Ledger device using your 24-word recovery phrase. Simply choose “Restore from recovery phrase” during setup and enter your words in order.
This process underscores the importance of storing your recovery phrase securely. Without it, your funds cannot be recovered.
Ledger is more than a hardware wallet. With Ledger Live and compatible third-party apps, you can:
Ledger acts as your gateway to the digital asset ecosystem while keeping your private keys offline.
Maintaining security is a continuous process. Here are additional tips:
Even with the best practices, your vigilance is the ultimate safeguard for your crypto.
Ledger.com/start is your first step toward secure self-custody of cryptocurrency. By following this guide:
Starting with strong security habits today ensures your crypto remains safe tomorrow. Ledger empowers you with control, transparency, and peace of mind—because with your crypto, you are the bank.