Why use a hardware wallet?
Hardware wallets keep your private keys offline — away from malware and phishing websites. With a Ledger device, your keys never leave the device, and transactions are signed locally. To begin, always start at the official Ledger onboarding URL: https://ledger.com/start.
Before you begin (what you need)
Checklist
- A Ledger hardware wallet (for example Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X).
- A USB-C or USB-A cable (depending on model) or Bluetooth (Nano X).
- A computer or compatible smartphone with a modern browser.
- A secure, private place to write down your recovery phrase.
- Time — the setup takes about 10–15 minutes the first time.
Important: Never share your recovery phrase. Ledger or any support agent will never ask for it. Start setup from the official page: https://ledger.com/start.
Step 1 — Unbox and inspect
Check the packaging
Inspect the box and tamper-evident seals before opening. Ledger ships sealed packages; if anything looks tampered with, contact Ledger support and do not proceed. If everything looks good, remove the device and follow the included printed instructions, then continue at the official onboarding page: https://ledger.com/start.
Step 2 — Initialize your Ledger
Power and firmware
Connect your Ledger to your computer or phone. If prompted, update the device firmware — Ledger devices must run the latest verified firmware for best security. Follow on-device prompts exactly and confirm the firmware version on the device screen. Use the official guide here: https://ledger.com/start.
Create a new wallet
The device will ask whether you want to create a new wallet or restore an existing one. Choose "Create a new wallet" if this is your first time. You will receive a recovery phrase (commonly 24 words). Write these down carefully, in order, on the provided recovery sheet — or a steel backup if you have one.
Recovery phrase best practices
- Write the words in order and keep them offline.
- Do not store the phrase digitally (photos, notes, cloud storage).
- Consider a steel backup plate for fire and physical durability.
- Store the backup in a secure, private place (safe, deposit box).
Step 3 — Install Ledger Live
Download only from the official site
Install Ledger Live — the official companion app — from the official source: https://ledger.com/start. Ledger Live is available for macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS and Android. After installing, open the app and follow the on-screen onboarding steps (create a password for the app itself; this does NOT replace your recovery phrase).
Step 4 — Add accounts and apps
Install crypto apps on the device
Ledger uses a modular app system. Within Ledger Live you can install apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.) to support different blockchains. Install only the apps you need. To interact with an account, create an account in Ledger Live and connect your device when asked.
Receiving and verifying addresses
Always verify receiving addresses on your Ledger device screen before sending funds. Ledger Live shows the address, but you must confirm on-device to ensure it has not been tampered with by a compromised host computer.
Troubleshooting & common questions
Forgot PIN or lost device
If you forget your PIN, you can reset the device and restore using your recovery phrase. If the device is lost or stolen, your funds remain safe as long as your recovery phrase is secret. Restore onto a new Ledger or compatible wallet using the recovery phrase.
Phishing and suspicious links
Only use links that begin with the official domain shown in this guide: https://ledger.com/start. Phishers clone sites and emails; always verify domain and SSL, and avoid clicking links in unsolicited messages.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Entering your recovery phrase on a website — never do this.
- Storing your phrase in cloud storage, email, or photos.
- Using third-party installers from unknown sources.
- Sharing screenshots of your addresses with private keys or phrase visible.
Advanced: Using Ledger with DeFi and third-party wallets
Ledger works with many web wallets and DeFi platforms (for example MetaMask, WalletConnect-compatible apps, and native integrations). When connecting, choose the option to connect a hardware wallet and always validate transactions on the device screen. For official instructions and latest supported integrations, see the official start page: https://ledger.com/start.
Backup, recovery, and inheritance
Plan for long-term access
Make an inheritance plan. Store the recovery phrase where a trusted executor can access it if you cannot. Consider legal and privacy implications — a safe deposit box, a trust, or another secure custody solution may be appropriate for large holdings. Remember: anyone with the recovery phrase can access funds.
Security checklist (quick)
- Start at the official URL: https://ledger.com/start.
- Verify package seals and firmware authenticity.
- Write and store your recovery phrase offline and securely.
- Confirm every receiving address on-device.
- Never enter your recovery phrase into software or websites.
Final thoughts
Ledger hardware wallets provide an excellent balance of usability and security for storing crypto holdings. Set aside time to follow each step deliberately, keep backups secure, and always confirm transactions on your device. For the most up-to-date instructions, downloads, and support resources, bookmark the official getting-started page: https://ledger.com/start.