This guide walks through the essential steps to get started with Ledger hardware wallets and Ledger Live, best security practices, troubleshooting tips, and quick links to official Ledger resources. It’s structured with clear headings (h1 → h5) to be easy to use in a presentation or export to print/PDF.
Overview: Why use a Ledger hardware wallet?
A hardware wallet like Ledger securely stores the private keys for your crypto offline, protecting them from online threats. The device pairs with Ledger Live — a desktop and mobile app — so you can manage accounts, send/receive funds, buy/swap, and check balances without exposing your private keys to the internet.
Step-by-step Setup
1. Get Ledger Live (download & verify)
Download Ledger Live only from the official site and follow the app instructions for your operating system.
Install the app
Open the Ledger Live installer for your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android), run it and choose Get started. The app will guide you to select your device model (e.g., Nano S Plus, Nano X, Stax).
Initialise your device
When powering on the Ledger device, create a PIN and write down the recovery phrase exactly as displayed. Store the recovery phrase offline in a secure location — never photograph or store it on a cloud service.
Tip
Ledger will never ask you for your recovery phrase. Any request for it is a scam. If prompted to enter your recovery phrase into software or a website — disconnect immediately.
Using Ledger with Ledger Live
Ledger Live manages accounts and transactions while the hardware device approves them physically. Use Ledger Live to add accounts, view balances, and send crypto — and the device verifies each transaction.
Common tasks
- Create an account and add supported cryptocurrencies
- Receive funds by generating a deposit address in Ledger Live
- Send funds — confirm on your device before broadcasting
- Use the built-in marketplace to buy or swap (if available in your region)
Security best practices
Protect your recovery phrase
The recovery phrase is the single most sensitive asset. Keep it offline, written on durable material (fireproof metal backup recommended), and never share it. Consider official Ledger accessories like the Recovery Key if you want a secondary backup solution.
Avoid phishing & fake apps
Only download Ledger Live and firmware from official Ledger domains. Beware of fake apps or pop-ups asking for your seed phrase or PIN. If you suspect malware, reinstall Ledger Live after scanning your device.
Troubleshooting & support
If you face connectivity or firmware issues, consult Ledger Support channels — they provide step-by-step troubleshooting for firmware, device recognition and app installation. Official support will never request your recovery phrase.
When to contact support
- Device not recognized by Ledger Live
- Firmware update failed
- Purchasing & delivery questions from the Ledger Shop
Quick access — Official Ledger resources
Click any box to open the official Ledger resource (links open to ledger.com or shop.ledger.com / support.ledger.com).
FAQ (quick answers)
Q: What if I lose my Ledger device?
You can restore funds on a new compatible device using your recovery phrase — which is why storing it securely is critical.
Q: Can Ledger recover my 24-word phrase for me?
No. Ledger support will never ask for or store your recovery phrase. Recovery is strictly something you keep.
Q: Where to download apps or updates?
Always use Ledger Live and the official Ledger domains for downloads and firmware updates.