Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started with Your Ledger Hardware Wallet

What is Ledger?

Ledger is a leading manufacturer of hardware wallets, providing the highest level of security for cryptocurrency storage. Unlike software wallets that store your private keys on internet-connected devices, Ledger hardware wallets keep your keys offline in a secure chip, protecting them from online threats, malware, and hackers.

The Ledger ecosystem includes popular devices like the Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X, along with the Ledger Live application that serves as your gateway to managing over 5,500 cryptocurrencies and tokens securely.

Getting Started: Your First Steps

1. Unboxing and Initial Setup

When you receive your Ledger device, carefully inspect the packaging to ensure it hasn't been tampered with. Your genuine Ledger device should come sealed with security tape and include the device, USB cable, recovery phrase cards, and instruction manual. Never use a device that appears to have been opened or modified.

Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the provided USB cable. The device will guide you through the initial setup process, including choosing a PIN code and generating your 24-word recovery phrase. This recovery phrase is crucial – it's your backup that can restore access to your cryptocurrencies if your device is lost or damaged.

2. Installing Ledger Live

Download Ledger Live exclusively from the official Ledger website at ledger.com. This desktop and mobile application is your command center for managing your crypto portfolio. Ledger Live allows you to install cryptocurrency apps on your device, check balances, send and receive transactions, and access various DeFi services securely.

During the Ledger Live setup, you'll verify your device's authenticity through a genuine check process. This ensures you're using an authentic Ledger product and not a counterfeit device that could compromise your security.

3. Installing Cryptocurrency Apps

Your Ledger device can store multiple cryptocurrency applications, but due to limited storage space, you'll need to install and uninstall apps as needed. Popular apps include Bitcoin, Ethereum, Cardano, Solana, and many others. Installing or removing apps doesn't affect your cryptocurrency holdings – your assets remain secure on the blockchain.

Security Best Practices

Recovery Phrase Security

Your 24-word recovery phrase is the master key to your cryptocurrency. Write it down on the provided recovery cards and store them in multiple secure locations. Never store your recovery phrase digitally, share it with anyone, or enter it into any website or application. Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase.

PIN Code Protection

Choose a PIN code that's difficult to guess but easy for you to remember. Your device will reset after three incorrect PIN attempts, requiring you to restore it using your recovery phrase. This feature protects against physical theft attempts.

Firmware Updates

Regularly update your Ledger device firmware through Ledger Live to ensure you have the latest security features and bug fixes. These updates are cryptographically signed and verified to maintain the integrity of your device.

Managing Your Cryptocurrency

Once your Ledger is set up, you can begin receiving cryptocurrency by generating receiving addresses through Ledger Live. Always verify addresses on your device screen before sharing them. When sending cryptocurrency, double-check recipient addresses and transaction amounts on your device before confirming.

Ledger Live provides portfolio tracking, transaction history, and market data to help you manage your investments effectively. You can also stake certain cryptocurrencies directly through Ledger Live to earn rewards while maintaining full control of your assets.

Advanced Features and DeFi Integration

Your Ledger device integrates with popular DeFi platforms and Web3 applications, allowing you to participate in decentralized finance while keeping your private keys secure. You can connect your Ledger to platforms like Uniswap, Compound, and Aave through supported wallet interfaces.

Ledger also supports NFT management, allowing you to securely store and transfer non-fungible tokens. The Ledger Live NFT gallery provides a convenient way to view and manage your digital collectibles.

Troubleshooting and Support

If you encounter issues with your Ledger device, the Ledger Support Center provides comprehensive troubleshooting guides and FAQs. Common issues include connection problems, app installation failures, and transaction errors, most of which can be resolved through simple troubleshooting steps.

Remember that Ledger support will never ask for your recovery phrase, PIN code, or private keys. Be cautious of phishing attempts and always verify you're communicating with official Ledger channels.

Conclusion

Starting your cryptocurrency security journey with Ledger represents a significant step toward protecting your digital assets. By following proper setup procedures, maintaining good security practices, and staying informed about updates and best practices, you'll have a robust foundation for secure cryptocurrency management.

Your Ledger hardware wallet provides institutional-grade security for personal use, giving you complete control over your cryptocurrency while protecting against the most common attack vectors. Take time to familiarize yourself with all features and always prioritize security over convenience.