Welcome to Ledger – Start Your Secure Crypto Journey
Welcome to Ledger, your starting point for securing digital assets with confidence. Ledger hardware wallets are designed to help you protect, manage, and grow your cryptocurrency safely by keeping your private keys offline and under your control. Whether you are new to crypto or an experienced user, this guide will walk you through everything you need to get started securely.
Ledger combines industry-leading security with an easy-to-use experience, allowing you to manage thousands of cryptocurrencies and tokens while maintaining full ownership of your assets. By following the steps on this page, you will set up your Ledger device correctly and learn the essential best practices for staying safe in the crypto ecosystem.
Why Choose a Ledger Hardware Wallet?
When you own cryptocurrency, security matters. Unlike exchanges or online wallets, Ledger hardware wallets store your private keys offline in a certified Secure Element chip. This means your keys are protected even if your computer or smartphone is compromised.
With a Ledger device, you:
Keep full control of your private keys
Protect assets from online threats such as phishing and malware
Securely manage multiple cryptocurrencies in one place
Verify every transaction directly on your device
Ledger wallets are trusted by millions of users worldwide and are built with security as the top priority, without sacrificing usability.
What You Need Before You Start
Before setting up your Ledger device, make sure you have:
Your Ledger hardware wallet (new and sealed)
A computer or smartphone with internet access
A secure, private environment for setup
A pen and paper to write down your recovery phrase
Never begin setup in public or share your screen during the process. Your recovery phrase is private and must remain offline at all times.
Step 1: Download Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the official app used to set up and manage your Ledger device. It allows you to install apps, manage accounts, send and receive crypto, and monitor your portfolio.
Download Ledger Live only from the official Ledger website or verified app stores. Never use links from emails, ads, or social media claiming to be Ledger. Fake apps are a common source of scams.
Once installed, open Ledger Live and select “Get Started.”
Step 2: Set Up Your Ledger Device
Connect your Ledger device to your computer or phone and follow the on-screen instructions.
You will be asked to:
Choose a PIN code
Generate a recovery phrase
Confirm your recovery phrase
Your PIN code protects physical access to your device. Choose a code that is hard to guess and never share it with anyone.
Step 3: Secure Your Recovery Phrase
Your recovery phrase (also called a seed phrase) is the most important part of your wallet. It is a list of 24 words generated by your Ledger device.
Important rules:
Write the words down exactly as shown
Store them offline only (never digitally)
Never share them with anyone
Never enter them on a website or app
Anyone with your recovery phrase can take full control of your crypto. Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase—no exceptions.
If your device is lost, damaged, or stolen, this phrase is the only way to recover your assets.
Step 4: Install Crypto Apps and Add Accounts
Once your device is secured, Ledger Live will guide you through installing apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, or others.
Installing an app does not store coins on the device. Your assets always remain on the blockchain. The Ledger device simply secures the private keys used to access them.
After installing apps, you can add accounts in Ledger Live to view balances and transaction history.
Step 5: Send and Receive Crypto Safely
To receive crypto:
Open the relevant account in Ledger Live
Verify the address on your Ledger device screen
Share the address with the sender
To send crypto:
Enter the recipient address and amount in Ledger Live
Carefully verify transaction details on your device
Approve the transaction using your Ledger device
Always verify addresses directly on the device screen. This step protects you from malware that could alter addresses on your computer or phone.
Staying Safe: Best Practices
Crypto security goes beyond device setup. Follow these best practices to stay protected:
Keep your recovery phrase hidden and secure
Beware of phishing emails and fake support messages
Only trust information from official Ledger channels
Never connect your Ledger to untrusted apps or websites
Keep Ledger Live and your device firmware up to date
If something feels suspicious, stop immediately and double-check before taking action.
Common Questions from New Users
Do I own my crypto with Ledger?
Yes. Ledger gives you full self-custody. You control your private keys at all times.
Can Ledger be hacked?
Ledger devices are designed to resist both physical and digital attacks. Your funds remain safe as long as your recovery phrase is kept secure.
What happens if I lose my device?
You can restore your wallet on a new Ledger device using your recovery phrase.
Continue Your Journey with Confidence
You’re now ready to use Ledger securely. Take time to explore Ledger Live, learn about supported assets, and understand how blockchain transactions work. Security is a habit, not a one-time step.
Ledger empowers you to take control of your digital assets with confidence, transparency, and peace of mind. Start smart, stay cautious, and enjoy the benefits of true ownership in the crypto world.