This presentation is a concise, user-friendly guide to help you set up and start using your Ledger hardware wallet. It covers the essentials: initial setup, security best practices, how to install apps and manage assets, and troubleshooting common issues. Use the official link below as your primary resource.
Note: Always confirm web addresses carefully and only follow instructions from the official website or the printed guide included in the Ledger box.
A Ledger hardware wallet is a small physical device that stores private keys offline for cryptocurrencies. Because keys never leave the device, it provides a higher level of protection against online threats compared to software wallets. Use it to securely manage multiple cryptocurrencies, authorize transactions, and interact with supported decentralized applications.
Confirm the packaging is sealed and hasn't been tampered with. If anything looks suspicious, contact the seller or the official support channels listed at Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® before proceeding.
Typical contents: the Ledger device, a USB cable, recovery sheets, and simple setup instructions. Do NOT share your recovery phrase with anyone — not with support, friends, or on social media.
Your recovery phrase is the master key to your funds. Store it offline, in a secure, fire- and water-resistant location. Consider metal backups for long-term resilience.
Power on the Ledger device and follow on-screen instructions to create a PIN. Choose a PIN you can remember but that is not trivially guessable. Enter the PIN directly on the device.
The device will show a 24-word recovery phrase (sometimes 12 depending on model). Write it down in order — do not store the phrase digitally. Confirm the words when prompted by the device to ensure you recorded them correctly.
On a trusted computer, download Ledger Live from the official link: Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start®. Install it and follow prompts to add your device. Ledger Live helps manage apps and accounts; it does not hold your private keys.
Within Ledger Live, go to the Manager and install the apps for the cryptocurrencies you plan to use (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Then add accounts to view balances and transact.
When you send funds, Ledger Live will prepare the transaction but the device must physically confirm it. This two-factor physical confirmation prevents remote attackers from silently transferring funds.
Always verify the receiving address on the hardware device screen — never trust the address shown solely by the computer or mobile app. That check prevents address-hijacking malware from substituting an attacker address.
If your device is not recognized, try a different USB cable and port, restart Ledger Live, and ensure you’re using the correct USB mode. For firmware or app errors, follow official instructions from Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start®.
Contact official support if you suspect tampering, cannot access your recovery phrase, or see unexpected device behavior. Use only the contact methods listed on the official website — never share your recovery phrase with support.
Consider multiple physical backups in distinct secure locations (e.g., safe deposit box and home safe). Avoid keeping all backups in the same physical place to reduce risk from theft, fire, or flood.
Document (securely) instructions for a trusted beneficiary on how to find the recovery phrase and the steps to access funds. Use legal advice for complex estate planning.
For advanced users, Ledger supports an additional passphrase (sometimes called 25th word) which creates hidden wallets. This adds security but also increases risk of permanent loss if passphrases are forgotten. Use carefully.
For larger holdings, consider multi-signature setups or using multiple hardware devices across trusted custodians — this reduces a single point of failure.
Setting up a Ledger device takes a short time but pays dividends in security. Follow the step-by-step guidance, store your recovery phrase securely, and always verify addresses on the device screen. Use the Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® links above as your canonical resource to download Ledger Live and access up-to-date help articles.