Welcome to Ledger: Start Managing Your Crypto Securely
Welcome to Ledger, the industry leader in hardware wallet security and cryptocurrency management. If you're here, you're ready to take control of your digital assets—and you're in the right place. In this guide, you’ll learn how to set up your Ledger hardware wallet, install Ledger Live, manage assets, and explore key features to suit both beginners and experienced crypto users. By the end, you'll be empowered with confidence and security to manage cryptocurrencies the right way.
1. Why Choose Ledger?
Choosing the right hardware wallet is essential. At Ledger, we’re committed to delivering robust security without sacrificing user experience.
Industry-Leading Security
- Secure Element chip stores private keys offline
- Operating system (BOLOS) provides secure sandboxing
- Continuous firmware audits by independent experts
Full Self-Custody
- You hold your private keys
- No reliance on third-party exchanges or custodians
- Only you can approve transactions
Broad Asset Compatibility
- Support for over 5,500 tokens: Bitcoin, Ethereum, DeFi assets, NFTs
- Designed to evolve with the decentralized ecosystem
Open-Source Transparency
- Firmware and some components are open-source
- Available for review on GitHub
- Community-driven updates and improvements
2. Supported Ledger Devices
Choose the hardware wallet that aligns with your needs:
-
Ledger Nano S Plus
Affordable, durable, and ideal for day-to-day use -
Ledger Nano X
Bluetooth-enabled and ideal for mobile users managing larger portfolios -
Ledger Stax (coming soon)
Advanced touchscreen device, designed for power users and seamless integration
3. Getting Started: What You’ll Need
To begin, prepare the following:
- Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax)
- Ledger Live app—available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android
- USB cable (included) or Bluetooth-enabled mobile device
- Secure location to store a 24-word recovery phrase (avoid storing digitally)
4. Step-by-Step Setup Guide
Step 1: Download Ledger Live
Visit ledger.com/start to download the official Ledger Live app for your device. Avoid third-party links to ensure authenticity.
Step 2: Unbox and Power On
Remove your Ledger device from the packaging. Power it on by connecting it (via USB or Bluetooth, depending on your model).
Step 3: Choose Device Setup
Select either:
- “Set up as new device” – Ideal for first-time users
- “Restore from recovery phrase” – For users recovering from a previous seed
Step 4: Create a PIN Code
Choose a secure PIN (8–10 digits recommended). This PIN will be required every time you connect your device.
Step 5: Write Down Your Recovery Phrase
Your device will display a 24-word recovery phrase. Write it down carefully—this is your only backup. Store it securely offline.
Step 6: Confirm Your Recovery Phrase
Confirm your words on the device to complete initialization.
Step 7: Install Apps and Add Accounts
Use Ledger Live to install cryptocurrency apps and create accounts (e.g. Bitcoin, Ethereum). Each account corresponds to a crypto address on your device.
5. Navigating Ledger Live
The Ledger Live app is your central hub for managing assets and security:
Home Dashboard
- Overview of your portfolio balance
- Recent transactions and alerts
Accounts Tab
- View separate accounts for each cryptocurrency
- Real-time transaction history and balance
Send & Receive Tabs
- Generate addresses for receiving crypto
- Send crypto securely with device verification
Buy, Sell & Swap
- Purchase crypto with fiat via partners like MoonPay
- Swap tokens directly within the app
- Sell crypto into supported currencies where available
Manager (My Ledger)
- Install or uninstall apps on your hardware wallet
- Track firmware updates and alerts
Portfolio
- Visual asset allocation and performance over time
- Pending operations and valuation charts
Settings & Security
- Lock app with password
- View recovery phrase backup status
- Enable or disable advanced features
6. Securing Your Investment: Best Practices
Security goes beyond hardware—it’s about building good habits.
Keep Your Recovery Phrase Safe
- Prefer storing on paper or steel (avoid digital backup)
- Consider a duplicate in a separate location
- Set recovery phrase passcodes for hidden accounts
Verify on Device Before Approving
- Always check addresses and details displayed on your Ledger device
- Never approve unseen or altered transactions
Keep Firmware and Apps Updated
- Ledger Live alerts you when updates are needed
- Use only official Ledger firmware for security fixes
Only Use Official Ledger Sources
- Always download Ledger Live and firmware from ledger.com
- Beware of phishing websites and spoofed messages
Lock and Auto-Lock App
- Protect Ledger Live with a password
- Set auto-lock settings for inactive periods
Clean Environment Practices
- Secure workspace, private Wi-Fi, antivirus software
- Avoid public or insecure network environments
7. Advanced Usage
Ledger Live offers more than the basics:
Crypto Staking
- Stake assets like Ethereum, Cardano, Tezos, and Polkadot
- Earn passive rewards while retaining custody of your assets
- Monitor staking earnings directly in Ledger Live
NFT Management
- View and manage Ethereum-based NFTs
- Send and receive ERC‑721 tokens
- Future support planned for additional blockchains
DeFi Access & Integrations
- Connect Ledger to popular DeFi platforms via Ledger Live’s built-in browser wallet
- Confirm all transactions using your device for safety
Custom Fees & Transaction Parameters
- Specify advanced transaction parameters (especially on Ethereum)
- Opt for fast or economical routes based on user preference
Advanced Secured Accounts
- Use passphrase-enabled hidden accounts
- Manage multiple device configurations in parallel
8. Troubleshooting & Support
If you encounter issues:
- Restart your device and the app
- Check firmware via the Manager tab
- Use the official Ledger Help Center at support.ledger.com
- Seek community guidance in forums and social channels
- Contact Ledger support with reference numbers and secure messaging requests
9. Ledger Ecosystem
Ledger continues to expand through:
- Ledger Academy: Guides, tutorials, and learning material for all skill levels
- Ledger Live Labs: Beta features for early adopters
- Developer APIs: Tools for integrating Ledger into custom apps
- Partner Directory: Verified third-party integrations for safe use
10. Why Ledger Stands Apart
Key differentiators of Ledger include:
- Proven experience: Over 7 years of hardware wallet development
- Security-first design: Continuous audits, certifications, Secure Element chips
- Transparency and openness: Public audits, partnerships, GDPR and data compliance
- Community trust: Millions of devices shipped, applauded by global institutions
11. Future Roadmap
- Expanded coin support and NFT compatibility
- Multi-device & cross-account sync features
- Interoperability with emerging Web3 wallets and ecosystems
- Partnerships with regulated financial institutions for institutional custody
12. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use Ledger without internet?
A: Yes, transactions can be prepared offline and signed via USB/Bluetooth. Broadcast can occur later using any connection.
Q: What happens if I lose my hardware wallet?
A: Recovery is easy using your 24-word seed on any new Ledger device or compatible wallet.
Q: Can Ledger guard against malware?
A: Your keys are offline. Even if your computer is compromised, the device protects your assets.
Q: Does Ledger support custodial accounts?
A: No. Ledger provides non-custodial storage; you own and control all keys.
Q: Are there additional tools for developers?
A: Yes. Ledger’s SDKs and APIs enable dApp integrations, custom firmware, and developer solutions.