Why use a Ledger hardware wallet?
If you're new to self-custody, Ledger hardware wallets provide strong offline protection for private keys. A device like a Ledger keeps your recovery phrase and signing keys isolated from internet-connected devices. Use the official setup instructions on the official site to avoid scams: https://www.ledger.com/start.
Quick safety first checklist
- Only use the official start page — Ledger.com/Start.
- Buy the device from an authorized seller or Ledger's official store: Ledger.com/Start.
- Never share your 24-word recovery phrase — Ledger will never ask for it online.
Step 1 — Unbox and inspect
Open the package and inspect the tamper seals and packaging. Ledger devices come in secure packaging; if anything looks tampered with, stop and contact support.
How to power on
Connect the Ledger device to your computer with the supplied cable. Follow the on-screen prompts to choose a PIN and to record your recovery phrase. For the canonical step-by-step, see the official guide at Ledger.com/Start.
Step 2 — Record your recovery phrase correctly
Your 24 words are the single most important backup. Write them down exactly in order on the supplied recovery sheet (or an approved metal backup). Don’t take a photo; don’t store them digitally.
Tips for safe storage
- Store the phrase offline in a secure place (safe, bank box, or a trusted secure location).
- Consider splitting the phrase into multiple secure locations if appropriate for your risk model.
Step 3 — Install Ledger Live and apps
Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile companion app for managing accounts, installing crypto apps, and checking balances.
Download only from the official link
Always download Ledger Live from the official start page: https://www.ledger.com/start. This avoids fake downloads and malicious installers. Confirm checksums when provided.
Step 4 — Add accounts and receive funds
Within Ledger Live, add cryptocurrency accounts (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) and generate receive addresses while your device is connected. Verify the full address on the device screen before sharing.
Sending vs receiving
When sending, always verify the destination address on the Ledger device display. When receiving, you may show the address to the sender, but always double-check the first few and last few characters.
Troubleshooting & support
If you encounter issues, consult the official help resources and knowledge base at the Ledger start page. Ledger’s official pages and FAQs are the primary trustworthy resource: Ledger.com/Start.
Common quick fixes
- Device not recognized: try a different USB cable or port, and ensure Ledger Live is up to date.
- PIN lockout: Ledger devices allow multiple attempts; follow on-screen guidance and official recovery steps.
Advanced: using with third-party wallets and dApps
Ledger works with many wallets and decentralized apps. When connecting, always confirm the connection prompt on the device screen and only give minimal permissions required for the interaction.
Connecting to dApps safely
Prefer browser extensions and wallets known to be compatible and audited. If a dApp asks you to export private keys or recovery phrases, refuse — legitimate integrations never require that.
Closing notes — a short recap
Self-custody brings control and responsibility. The simplest path to safety is: buy genuine hardware, follow the official setup guide at https://www.ledger.com/start, record and protect your 24 words offline, and always validate addresses and prompts directly on the device.
Quick bookmark: Go to Official Start Page