Getting Started with Ledger Wallet

Secure your cryptocurrency with the world's most trusted hardware wallet. Follow our comprehensive setup guide to protect your digital assets with military-grade security.

Why Choose Ledger?

Bank-Level Security

Your private keys are stored offline on a secure chip, isolated from internet threats and malware attacks.

Easy to Use

Intuitive design with Ledger Live app makes managing your cryptocurrency portfolio simple and accessible.

5500+ Supported Coins

Support for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of other cryptocurrencies and tokens in one device.

Complete Setup Guide

Follow these steps to securely set up your Ledger hardware wallet

1

Unbox and Inspect Your Device

Carefully unbox your Ledger device and check for any signs of tampering. Your package should include:

  • Ledger hardware wallet device
  • USB cable (USB-C or micro-USB depending on model)
  • Recovery phrase cards for writing down your seed phrase
  • Quick start guide and safety instructions

Security Check: Never use a device that appears tampered with or came with a pre-written recovery phrase. Only buy from Ledger.com or authorized resellers.

2

Download and Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official companion app that allows you to manage your cryptocurrency safely:

  1. Visit ledger.com/ledger-live on your computer
  2. Download the version for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux)
  3. Install the application following the setup wizard
  4. Launch Ledger Live and select "Set up a new device"

Important: Only download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website to avoid malicious software that could compromise your security.

3

Initialize Your Device

Connect your Ledger to your computer and follow the on-screen instructions:

  1. Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the provided USB cable
  2. Press both buttons simultaneously to begin setup
  3. Choose "Set up as new device" when prompted
  4. Set a PIN code (4-8 digits) - remember this PIN as you'll need it to access your device
  5. Confirm your PIN by entering it again

Choose a PIN that's easy for you to remember but difficult for others to guess. Avoid simple patterns like 1234 or 0000.

4

Install Cryptocurrency Apps

Install the apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage:

  1. In Ledger Live, navigate to "Manager" in the left sidebar
  2. Unlock your Ledger device and navigate to the settings
  3. Allow Ledger Manager when prompted on your device
  4. Search for and install apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.)
  5. Apps will be installed directly on your Ledger device

Note: Storage space varies by device. The Nano S Plus can hold about 100 apps, while the Nano X can hold about 120 apps.

Master Ledger Live

Your gateway to secure cryptocurrency management

Portfolio Management

View your complete cryptocurrency portfolio in one place:

  • • Real-time balance updates
  • • Transaction history
  • • Portfolio performance tracking
  • • Multi-currency support

Secure Transactions

Send and receive cryptocurrency safely:

  • • Hardware wallet transaction signing
  • • Address verification on device
  • • Transaction amount confirmation
  • • Network fee optimization

Key Features of Ledger Live

Buy Crypto

Purchase cryptocurrency directly through trusted partners with competitive rates.

Swap & Exchange

Exchange between different cryptocurrencies without leaving the secure environment.

Earn Rewards

Stake supported cryptocurrencies to earn passive rewards while maintaining security.

Recovery Phrase Security

Your 24-word recovery phrase is the master key to your cryptocurrency

Critical Security Warning

Your 24-word recovery phrase is generated during device initialization and provides complete access to your cryptocurrency. Anyone with access to these words can steal your funds.

  • • Never share your recovery phrase with anyone
  • • Never store it digitally (photos, cloud, email, etc.)
  • • Never enter it into any website or software
  • • Ledger support will never ask for your recovery phrase

Best Storage Practices

  • • Write on the provided recovery cards with pen
  • • Store multiple copies in separate secure locations
  • • Consider a bank safety deposit box
  • • Use metal backup devices for fire/water protection
  • • Never laminate (heat can damage ink)

Verification Steps

  • • Write down all 24 words in correct order
  • • Double-check each word for accuracy
  • • Verify words during device confirmation
  • • Test recovery on a separate device if possible
  • • Store recovery cards immediately after verification

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about Ledger wallet setup and security

Ready to Secure Your Crypto?

Join millions of users who trust Ledger to protect their digital assets