Get Started with Ledger: Secure Your Digital Assets
Welcome to Ledger. This page will guide you through the essential steps to securely set up your Ledger hardware wallet and begin managing your digital assets with confidence. Ledger wallets are designed to give you full control over your cryptocurrency by keeping your private keys offline and protected from online threats.
Whether you are new to crypto or transitioning from an exchange or software wallet, Ledger provides a secure and user-friendly way to manage your assets while maintaining full ownership.
Why Use a Ledger Hardware Wallet?
Cryptocurrency ownership comes with responsibility. Unlike online wallets or exchanges, a Ledger hardware wallet stores your private keys offline in a highly secure chip. This significantly reduces the risk of hacking, malware, and phishing attacks.
With Ledger, you benefit from:
Full control of your private keys
Offline protection against online threats
Secure verification of transactions on the device
Support for thousands of cryptocurrencies and tokens
Your assets are never stored on the device itself. Instead, Ledger protects the keys that allow you to access and manage your funds on the blockchain.
What You Need Before You Start
Before setting up your Ledger device, ensure you have:
A new Ledger hardware wallet with intact packaging
A computer or smartphone with internet access
A quiet and private environment
Pen and paper to write down your recovery phrase
Do not attempt to set up your device in public or while sharing your screen. Your security begins with privacy.
Step 1: Install Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the official application that allows you to set up your device and manage your crypto accounts. It is available for desktop and mobile devices.
Download Ledger Live only from the official Ledger website or verified app stores. Avoid links from emails, advertisements, or social media, as fake apps are a common source of scams.
Once installed, open Ledger Live and select “Get Started” to begin.
Step 2: Set Up Your Ledger Device
Connect your Ledger device to your computer or phone and follow the instructions shown on the device screen and in Ledger Live.
During setup, you will:
Choose a PIN code
Generate a recovery phrase
Confirm the recovery phrase
Your PIN code protects access to your device. Choose a code that is difficult to guess and never share it.
Step 3: Write Down Your Recovery Phrase
Your recovery phrase consists of 24 words generated by your Ledger device. This phrase is the only backup of your wallet and the only way to restore access if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged.
Important security rules:
Write the words down exactly in the correct order
Store the recovery phrase offline only
Never take photos or store it digitally
Never share it with anyone
Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase. Anyone who has access to it can control your crypto.
Step 4: Install Apps and Add Accounts
After securing your wallet, Ledger Live will allow you to install apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage, such as Bitcoin or Ethereum.
Installing an app does not move funds onto the device. Your crypto remains on the blockchain, and the Ledger device secures the keys needed to access it.
Once apps are installed, you can add accounts to view balances and transaction history in Ledger Live.
Step 5: Send and Receive Crypto Safely
To receive crypto:
Select the account in Ledger Live
Verify the receiving address on your Ledger device
Share the verified address with the sender
To send crypto:
Enter the transaction details in Ledger Live
Carefully check all information on your device screen
Approve the transaction using the device buttons
Always confirm addresses and amounts directly on the Ledger device. This step protects you from malware and unauthorized changes.
Security Best Practices
Using a hardware wallet is only part of staying safe. Follow these best practices:
Keep your recovery phrase secure and private
Watch out for phishing emails and fake support messages
Only trust official Ledger communication channels
Never enter your recovery phrase on a website
Keep Ledger Live and device firmware up to date
If something seems suspicious, stop immediately and verify before continuing.
Take Control of Your Crypto with Confidence
You are now ready to use Ledger securely. Take time to learn about your assets, explore Ledger Live features, and stay informed about crypto security. True ownership means taking responsibility, and Ledger is designed to support you every step of the way.
Start smart, stay secure, and manage your digital assets with confidence using Ledger.