Getting Started with Ledger: Your Ultimate Guide
A complete, step-by-step introduction to setting up your Ledger hardware wallet the right way.
A Ledger hardware wallet is one of the most secure ways to protect your digital assets. Whether you're new to crypto or looking to upgrade your security, this guide walks you through everything you need to start using your Ledger device confidently.
You’ll learn how to unbox, configure, back up, and operate your wallet using the official Ledger tools.
Begin by unboxing your Ledger hardware wallet. Ensure the packaging is intact and the device has not been tampered with. Ledger devices have built-in checks to confirm they are authentic when first connected.
If anything appears unusual, stop the setup process and visit official Ledger support.
Ledger Live is the official companion app that allows you to manage your hardware wallet. Download it from the official source on Ledger’s website and install the version appropriate for your system.
After launching Ledger Live, choose the option to set up a new device and follow the guided instructions.
Turn on your Ledger wallet and select “Set up as new device”. Create a secure PIN code that will protect access to your device. Remember—only enter your PIN on the Ledger device screen itself, never on a phone or computer.
During setup, your Ledger device displays a 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is the most important part of your wallet’s security. It is the only backup of your funds and must be written down exactly as shown.
Your recovery phrase should never be shared with anyone. Ledger will never request it.
The device will ask you to confirm several random words from your recovery phrase. This step ensures your backup is accurate. Take your time to verify each word before proceeding.
After initialization, connect your wallet to Ledger Live. The app checks for firmware updates and walks you through installing them. Staying up to date helps protect your device from security vulnerabilities.
Different cryptocurrencies require their own apps on your Ledger device. In Ledger Live, navigate to the “My Ledger” section and install the apps you wish to use.
Apps take a small amount of space on the device, and you can install or uninstall them as needed without affecting your assets.
Once apps are installed, you can add accounts in Ledger Live. Each account generates addresses for receiving crypto. Always verify the receiving address on the Ledger device screen before sharing or using it.
This verification ensures your address has not been changed by malware.
Ledger Live includes many tools to help you manage your crypto more effectively:
Using Ledger Live alongside your device allows you to interact with crypto safely and efficiently.
Keep your assets safe by following these essential habits: