Why a Ledger hardware wallet?
Hardware wallets keep your private keys offline where they belong. With Ledger, your keys never leave the device — even when you sign transactions. That reduces exposure to phishing, malware, and online exchange risks. Start here to go from unboxing to confidently sending, receiving, and safeguarding your assets.
Quick start — what you'll need
- Your Ledger device (Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, or other official model).
- A computer or mobile device with a USB port (or Bluetooth for supported models).
- A secure, quiet place to write down your recovery phrase — ideally the provided recovery sheet or a metal backup.
- Official Ledger Live app downloaded from ledger.com (never install wallet apps from unknown sources).
Step-by-step setup
Power on & choose "Set up as new device"
Turn your Ledger on and follow the on-device prompts. When asked, choose the option to set up a new device (not "Restore from recovery phrase") unless you already have a recovery to restore.
Create a PIN
Set a PIN on the device. This PIN guards the Ledger if it’s lost or stolen. Choose a PIN that you won’t forget — but never write the PIN on the recovery sheet.
Write down your recovery phrase
The device will display a 24-word recovery phrase. Write these words in order on the recovery sheet provided — do not store them digitally or photograph them. This phrase is the master key to your funds.
Confirm the recovery phrase
Ledger will ask you to confirm several words to ensure you recorded them correctly. If you can’t confirm, repeat the step until accurate — an incorrect backup means you cannot recover funds if the device is lost.
Install Ledger Live & apps
Install Ledger Live from the official site, connect your device, and add the apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) for the assets you plan to hold. Ledger Live is the recommended companion app for managing accounts and updates.
Receive a small test transaction
Before sending large amounts, receive a small test transfer to confirm everything is set up. Confirm the address on the device screen — never trust the address shown only in your browser extension or computer.
Security best practices
- Never share your 24 words: No legit company or support agent will ask for them.
- Use a metal backup: Paper can burn, fade, or be lost — consider a metal backup plate for long-term resilience.
- Keep firmware updated: Ledger releases firmware and app updates to improve security and features. Update via Ledger Live only.
- Beware phishing: Only use ledger.com and official channels. Bookmark the official site and verify URLs.
- Two devices: Consider a secondary hardware wallet as a duplicate (use with caution and careful seed management).
Troubleshooting & common questions
If your device displays unexpected behavior, or if you lose the recovery phrase, consult the official support guides. Restoring from the 24-word phrase on a new Ledger or compatible wallet is straightforward — but only if you have that phrase. If you suspect your recovery phrase was exposed, move funds to a new wallet immediately.