Why choose Ledger?
Ledger hardware wallets combine best-in-class security with an easy-to-use app (Ledger Live). Your private keys stay isolated on the device — never exposed to your computer or phone. Whether you’re storing Bitcoin, Ethereum, or thousands of other assets, Ledger provides a reliable, audited way to self-custody your crypto.
Before you begin — essentials
What you need: a Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or similar), a computer or smartphone, a USB cable or Bluetooth (for Nano X), and a stable internet connection. Always download Ledger Live from the official site (ledger.com/start).
Step-by-step setup (quick)
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1. Unbox & verify
Check the tamper-evident packaging. Ledger devices ship in sealed boxes. If the seal looks tampered with, do not use the device and contact Ledger support.
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2. Power on & choose a PIN
Turn on the device and set a secure PIN. Use a PIN you can remember but that’s not guessable (avoid birthdays, repeated digits, or sequential numbers).
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3. Write down your recovery phrase
Your 24-word recovery phrase is the only backup of your wallet. Write it down on the provided recovery sheet — do not take a photo, do not store it digitally, and never share it. Ledger will never ask for it.
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4. Install Ledger Live
Visit ledger.com/start and download Ledger Live for your platform. Ledger Live helps you manage apps, accounts, and transactions.
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5. Add accounts & apps
Inside Ledger Live, go to Manager to install the cryptocurrency apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). Then add accounts to start receiving and tracking balances.
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6. Send & receive
To receive crypto, create a receiving address in Ledger Live and confirm it on your device. Always verify the address on the device screen before sharing it with others.
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7. Stay updated
Keep Ledger Live and your device firmware updated. Firmware updates often include security improvements — install them only from Ledger Live.
Security best practices
Security is ownership. These practical tips reduce the chance of compromise:
- Never enter your recovery phrase on a computer or phone.
- Store your recovery sheet in a secure, fireproof place (consider splitting the phrase into two secure locations).
- Beware of phishing: always confirm you are on ledger.com before downloading software.
- Enable a passphrase (advanced) only if you understand how it works — losing the passphrase means losing access.
Supported assets & compatibility
Ledger supports thousands of cryptocurrencies and tokens via native Ledger apps, third-party wallets (like MetaMask for Ethereum), and integrations. Use Ledger Live to see the full list of supported assets and to install the right apps for each chain.
Common troubleshooting
If Ledger Live cannot detect your device: try a different USB cable, switch USB ports, ensure the device is unlocked with your PIN, or restart Ledger Live. For Bluetooth issues with Nano X, toggle Bluetooth and ensure the device firmware is up to date.
FAQs
- Can Ledger recovery phrase be used on another wallet?
- Yes. The 24-word phrase follows BIP39/BIP44 standards and can be used to restore your wallet on compatible devices, but only do this with trusted hardware/software.
- What happens if I lose my Ledger device?
- Use your recovery phrase to restore your accounts on a new Ledger or compatible wallet. If you protected your seed with a passphrase, you must provide the passphrase during recovery.
- Is Ledger Live required?
- Ledger Live is recommended for account management and firmware updates, but you can use third-party wallets if preferred.
For step-by-step videos and official guides, visit the Ledger Getting Started page and the Ledger Help Center.