Welcome to Ledger.com/Start - your comprehensive guide to setting up the world's most trusted hardware wallet. Secure your cryptocurrency assets with military-grade security.
Follow these six simple steps to set up your Ledger hardware wallet and start securing your cryptocurrency investments.
Carefully unbox your Ledger hardware wallet. Ensure the package is sealed and hasn't been tampered with. Inside, you'll find your Ledger device, USB cable, recovery sheet, and getting started guide. Never use a device if the security seal is broken.
Visit the official Ledger website and download Ledger Live for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux). Ledger Live is the companion app that allows you to manage your crypto assets, install apps, and update your device firmware securely.
Connect your Ledger to your computer using the provided USB cable. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up a new device. Choose a strong PIN code (4-8 digits) that only you know. Never share your PIN with anyone or store it digitally.
Your Ledger will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. This is the most critical step - write these words on the provided recovery sheet in the exact order shown. Store it securely offline. This phrase is your backup and the only way to recover your assets if you lose your device.
Open Ledger Live and navigate to the Manager section. Install the apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage - Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands more. Each blockchain requires its dedicated app on your Ledger device.
You're all set! Use Ledger Live to send, receive, and manage your cryptocurrency portfolio. Your private keys never leave your Ledger device, ensuring maximum security. Always verify transaction details on your device screen before confirming.
Ledger hardware wallets provide multiple layers of security to protect your digital assets from hackers and unauthorized access.
Bank-grade security with certified secure element (CC EAL5+) that stores your private keys offline and protects against physical attacks.
Your device is protected by a PIN code of your choice. After three incorrect attempts, the device automatically resets to factory settings.
Always verify transaction details on your Ledger's screen. What you see is what you sign - protecting you from malware and phishing.
Receive firmware updates through Ledger Live to stay protected against emerging threats and access new features.
Get answers to common questions about Ledger hardware wallets
Ledger is a hardware wallet that stores your cryptocurrency private keys offline in a secure chip. Unlike software wallets or exchanges, your assets remain under your complete control and protected from online threats, hacks, and unauthorized access. It's the safest way to store cryptocurrencies for the long term.
When you set up your Ledger, you receive a 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is your backup. If your device is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can purchase a new Ledger and restore all your accounts using this recovery phrase. That's why it's crucial to store your recovery phrase securely offline and never share it with anyone.
No. Your Ledger is protected by a PIN code that you set during initialization. If someone enters the wrong PIN three times, the device automatically wipes itself. Without your PIN, the device is useless to thieves. However, you can still recover your funds using your 24-word recovery phrase on a new device.
Ledger supports over 5,500 cryptocurrencies and tokens, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Litecoin, and thousands of ERC-20 and other blockchain tokens. You can manage all your assets through Ledger Live, the companion application, and install specific apps for each cryptocurrency you want to use.
Yes, but only download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website (ledger.com). Never download it from third-party sites, app stores, or links sent via email. Ledger will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase. The official app is regularly audited and updated with the latest security features.
Setting up your Ledger wallet typically takes 15-30 minutes. This includes unboxing, downloading Ledger Live, initializing your device with a PIN, writing down your 24-word recovery phrase, and installing your first cryptocurrency apps. Take your time during setup, especially when writing down your recovery phrase - accuracy is critical.