Welcome to Ledger
Welcome to Ledger, and congratulations on taking an important step toward securing your digital assets. Ledger hardware wallets are designed to give you full control over your crypto by protecting your private keys offline. This page will guide you through the essential steps to set up your Ledger device safely and begin managing your assets with confidence.
Understanding Self-Custody
When you own cryptocurrency, true ownership means controlling your private keys. If your keys are stored online or managed by a third party, your assets may be exposed to hacking, service outages, or account restrictions. Ledger enables self-custody, meaning you—and only you—control access to your funds.
Ledger devices store private keys inside a Secure Element chip, a tamper-resistant component certified to protect sensitive data. Your keys never leave the device and are never exposed to the internet, even when connected to a computer or smartphone.
What You Need Before You Start
To set up your Ledger device, ensure you have:
Your Ledger hardware wallet
A computer or smartphone you trust
An internet connection
A private, distraction-free environment
Take your time during setup. Security starts with careful preparation.
Step 1: Download Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the official companion app for your Ledger device. It allows you to manage your crypto securely while keeping your private keys protected by your hardware wallet.
With Ledger Live, you can:
Initialize and verify your device
Install apps for supported cryptocurrencies
View balances and transaction history
Send and receive crypto securely
Buy, sell, or swap crypto through trusted partners
Download Ledger Live only from the official Ledger website or verified app stores. Never install Ledger software from links in emails or messages.
Step 2: Initialize Your Ledger Device
When you turn on your Ledger device for the first time, you will be prompted to set a PIN code. This PIN protects your wallet from unauthorized access if your device is lost or stolen. Choose a PIN that is hard to guess and never share it with anyone.
After setting your PIN, your device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is the backup to your wallet and the only way to restore access to your assets if your device is lost, damaged, or reset.
Important security rules for your recovery phrase:
Write it down on the recovery sheet provided
Store it in a secure, offline location
Never take photos or store it digitally
Never share it with anyone, under any circumstances
Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase. Anyone who has it can access your funds.
Step 3: Verify and Secure Your Wallet
As part of setup, your Ledger device will ask you to confirm your recovery phrase by selecting words in the correct order. This step ensures you have recorded it accurately.
Once verified, your wallet is fully secured and ready for use. Keep your recovery phrase safe and private at all times.
Step 4: Add Crypto Accounts
Ledger supports thousands of cryptocurrencies and tokens. Through Ledger Live, you can install apps for the assets you want to manage and create accounts for each one.
Every transaction must be physically approved on your Ledger device. Before confirming, always check the transaction details—such as amount and address—on the device screen itself. This ensures protection even if your computer or phone is compromised.
Staying Safe Online
Scammers often target crypto users through phishing emails, fake websites, and social media messages. To stay safe:
Only trust information from official Ledger channels
Bookmark the official Ledger website
Ignore messages claiming urgency or account problems
Never enter your recovery phrase on a website or app
Ledger security depends on both technology and user awareness.
You Are in Control
Ledger gives you the tools to manage your digital assets independently and securely. By following the setup steps carefully and protecting your recovery phrase, you can confidently send, receive, and manage crypto while maintaining full ownership of your funds.
Welcome to Ledger. Your keys. Your crypto. Your control.