1. Unbox and verify
Open the package and inspect the tamper-evident seals. A genuine device will come with factory seals and a branded box. If anything looks tampered with, do not use the device and contact the vendor.
Why use Ledger?
Ledger hardware wallets provide an isolated, secure environment to store your private keys offline. Using a hardware wallet reduces the risk of online theft because private keys never leave the device. When you combine a Ledger device with good habits — unique recovery phrases, strong passphrases, and verified firmware — you significantly increase the safety of your crypto holdings.
Before you begin
- Make sure you ordered your device from an official source — Ledger.com or an authorized reseller.
- Have a clean, offline surface to write your recovery phrase on paper (or a metal backup plate).
- Do not share your recovery phrase, and never enter it into a website or software other than the device itself during recovery.
- Keep a fully charged phone or computer available for installing Ledger Live and performing the first setup.
Quick setup — step by step
2. Visit Ledger.com/Start
On your computer or phone, go to the official setup page ledger.com/start and follow the instructions to download Ledger Live — the companion app for managing accounts, receiving firmware updates, and installing apps on your device.
3. Install Ledger Live
Download the app for your operating system, install it, and open it. When prompted, choose “Set up a new device” (or “Restore from recovery phrase” if you already have one).
4. Initialize the device
Follow the on-screen steps while connecting the Ledger device with the supplied USB cable. Create a PIN code when asked — choose 6–8 digits you can recall but that cannot be easily guessed. The device will then display the recovery phrase word-by-word. Write each word carefully and in order on your recovery sheet.
5. Confirm the recovery phrase
After writing the phrase, the device will ask you to confirm a few words. This confirms that you recorded them correctly. Never store the phrase digitally (no photos, screenshots, or cloud notes).
6. Install apps and add accounts
In Ledger Live, use the Manager section to install specific currency apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) on your device. Then add accounts inside Ledger Live to view balances, receive funds, and send transactions.
Security tips — hard rules
- Recovery phrase is sacred: The 24-word phrase controls your funds. If someone obtains it, they can drain your wallet.
- Never share it: Ledger staff will never ask for your recovery phrase. Any request to enter your phrase into a website or to share it is a scam.
- Use a metal backup: Paper can burn or degrade. Consider a stamped metal plate for long-term durability.
- Keep firmware updated: Ledger releases firmware updates from time to time. Install them via Ledger Live to get security fixes and improvements.
- Verify addresses: When sending crypto, always verify the destination address on the physical device screen before approving.
Frequently asked questions
- Q: Can I restore my Ledger on another device?
- A: Yes. Your recovery phrase can be used to restore accounts on another Ledger device or on compatible software/hardware wallets that support the same seed standard. Only restore on a trusted device.
- Q: What happens if I lose my device?
- A: If you lose the physical device but still have your recovery phrase, you can restore your wallet on a new Ledger or a compatible wallet. If you lose both the device and the recovery phrase, funds are unrecoverable.
- Q: Is Ledger compatible with third-party apps?
- A: Yes. Ledger works with several wallets and dApps using a secure connection pattern: the private keys remain on your device, and the third-party app requests signatures which you approve on-device.
- Q: How many words is the recovery phrase?
- A: Ledger devices typically use a 24-word BIP39 recovery phrase, which offers high entropy and security.
Troubleshooting & support
If you encounter issues — device not recognized, firmware errors, or installation problems — first consult the official support center at ledger.com/support. Use only official channels to avoid phishing. Common fixes include reinstalling Ledger Live, trying a different USB cable or port, and rebooting the computer. If you suspect a compromised device, contact official support immediately.
Final notes
Using a Ledger hardware wallet is a strong step toward protecting your cryptocurrency. The most important elements are the secure generation and storage of your recovery phrase, keeping your device firmware up to date, and verifying actions physically on the device. Treat your recovery phrase like the keys to a safe deposit box: lost or exposed, and the funds are at risk.
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