🔐 Ledger® Wallet – Getting Started

Your official guide to setting up and securing your Ledger hardware wallet for safe cryptocurrency management.

📌 What Is Ledger® Wallet?

Ledger® Wallet is a hardware wallet designed to securely store your cryptocurrency private keys offline. By using a physical device, it drastically reduces the risk of hacking, malware, or phishing attacks that target software wallets or exchanges.

The Ledger family includes popular models such as the Ledger Nano S, Ledger Nano S Plus, and Ledger Nano X. All provide industry-leading security to keep your digital assets safe.

🛠 What You Need to Get Started

🌐 Step 1: Access the Official Ledger Website

Open your web browser and visit the official Ledger setup page at:

https://ledger.com/start

💡 Pro tip: Press Ctrl + L (or Cmd + L on Mac) to quickly jump to the address bar, then type or paste the URL and press Enter.

Ensure the URL begins with https:// and look for the padlock icon to verify the website's authenticity and avoid phishing attempts.

💾 Step 2: Download and Install Ledger Live

  1. On the Ledger start page, click “Download Ledger Live”.
  2. Select your operating system: Windows, macOS, or Linux.
  3. Download the installer file and open it.
  4. Follow the installation wizard prompts to complete setup.

Ledger Live is the desktop software that lets you manage your wallet, send and receive cryptocurrency, and install apps.

🔌 Step 3: Connect Your Ledger Wallet

  1. Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the provided USB cable.
  2. For Ledger Nano X, you can optionally pair via Bluetooth following the device instructions.
  3. Turn on your device (press the button(s) as required).

Security note: Never enter your 24-word recovery phrase into your computer or phone — only input it on your Ledger device screen.

🆕 Step 4: Initialize Your Ledger Wallet

  1. On your device, select “Set up as new device.”
  2. Create a PIN code using your device buttons (Left, Right, and Both to select).
  3. Confirm your PIN by entering it again.
  4. Your Ledger device will then display your 24-word recovery phrase one word at a time.

Write down these words carefully on the recovery sheet provided. Store it safely and never share this phrase with anyone.

🔑 Step 5: Confirm Your Recovery Phrase

Your device will ask you to confirm some words from your recovery phrase.

  1. Use the buttons to scroll through word options.
  2. Select the correct words in order.
  3. This step ensures your recovery phrase is backed up properly.

Never store your recovery phrase digitally or online. Physical offline storage is essential for your security.

📲 Step 6: Install Cryptocurrency Apps via Ledger Live

  1. Open Ledger Live and navigate to the “Manager” tab.
  2. Connect and unlock your Ledger device.
  3. Browse the app catalog and install apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.).

Each app corresponds to a blockchain protocol and enables secure interaction through your device.

💼 Step 7: Add Crypto Accounts in Ledger Live

  1. Go to the “Accounts” section in Ledger Live.
  2. Click “Add account.”
  3. Select the cryptocurrency app installed on your Ledger device.
  4. Follow prompts to synchronize your wallet and view balances.

You can add multiple accounts to track all your crypto assets securely.

📥 Step 8: Receiving Cryptocurrency

  1. Choose the account to receive funds.
  2. Click the “Receive” button.
  3. Ledger Live will display the deposit address.
  4. Always verify the address on your Ledger device screen before sharing.
  5. Share the verified address with the sender.

Always confirm the address on your hardware wallet to prevent scams and malware interference.

📤 Step 9: Sending Cryptocurrency

  1. Click “Send” in Ledger Live.
  2. Enter the recipient’s address carefully.
  3. Specify the amount and set transaction fees.
  4. Review transaction details thoroughly.
  5. Approve the transaction on your Ledger device.

Your private keys never leave the device during transaction signing, ensuring maximum security.

🔐 Security Best Practices

⚙️ Troubleshooting Tips

🔄 Keeping Your Ledger Wallet Up to Date

Ledger frequently releases updates to improve device security, performance, and support for new cryptocurrencies.

  1. Open Ledger Live and go to the “Manager” tab.
  2. If a firmware update is available, a notification will appear.
  3. Follow on-screen instructions carefully to update your device.
  4. Do not disconnect or power off your Ledger during the update process.

Regular updates are crucial to maintain the highest security standards.

🔗 Additional Features of Ledger Live