Official getting-started guide for Ledger hardware wallets. Quick, secure setup steps and tips to protect your crypto assets.
Hardware wallets are the most secure way to store the private keys that control your cryptocurrency. Unlike software wallets on phones or computers, a hardware device stores keys offline and signs transactions in a secure environment. This guide introduces the essential steps to set up a Ledger device, protect your recovery phrase, and perform your first transaction safely.
Ledger Live is the official app to manage your Ledger device, install apps, and send/receive crypto. Download Ledger Live from the official link below and follow the platform prompts for macOS, Windows, Linux, Android, or iOS:
Only download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website. Beware of phishing sites and verify the URL carefully.
When you power on a new Ledger, you’ll be prompted to either create a new wallet or restore from a recovery phrase. Choose Create a new device. The device will display a 24-word recovery phrase — write it down exactly in order on the recovery card provided. This phrase is your master key; anyone with it can access your funds.
Important: never take photos or store the recovery phrase in any digital form.
Create a PIN that you can remember but is not easily guessable. The PIN protects the device if it’s lost or stolen. If someone tries to brute-force the device, they will be blocked after multiple incorrect attempts.
Open Ledger Live and connect your Ledger device. Use the Ledger Live Manager to install specific currency apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) on the device. Then add accounts for each currency inside Ledger Live — this creates receive addresses and lets you manage balances.
To receive crypto, choose the account, click “Receive” and confirm the address displayed in Ledger Live on your device screen. Always verify the address on the device itself — the device is the source of truth and cannot be tampered with by malware on your computer.
If your device is lost or damaged, use the recovery phrase to restore your wallet on a new Ledger device or a compatible recovery tool. Only enter the phrase on a trusted device. Consider using the optional passphrase feature for an additional layer of security — but keep in mind a passphrase is like a 25th word: losing it can be irreversible.
Keep device firmware and Ledger Live up to date. Ledger publishes firmware updates that fix bugs or add features — only install updates via Ledger Live and verify signatures when prompted.
Never share your recovery phrase. Ledger support will never ask for it. If you receive suspicious emails, double-check with official support pages and avoid clicking unknown links.
After installing the appropriate apps and adding accounts, you can send or receive crypto. When sending, confirm all transaction details on the physical device and review fees carefully. Your Ledger keeps your private keys offline; coupled with a strong recovery practice, you’ll have a secure foundation to manage your crypto confidently.
Start here: Ledger.com/start — Get Started