The smartest way to secure your crypto
Welcome to the Ledger ecosystem. You are about to take full ownership of your digital assets. Follow this guide to set up your device, install Ledger Live, and start your journey into secure self-custody.
Why you need a hardware wallet
The internet was not built to secure value. Ledger was.
Offline Security
Your private keys never leave the device. By keeping them offline in a secure element chip, you are protected against hacks, malware, and digital threats that plague software wallets.
True Ownership
"Not your keys, not your coins." With Ledger, you are the sole custodian of your assets. No bank, exchange, or third party can freeze your funds or deny you access.
One App for Everything
Pair your device with Ledger Live to buy, sell, swap, and grow your crypto. Manage over 5,500 coins and tokens including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and NFTs from a single interface.
Setting up your Ledger
Setting up your device is a crucial moment. It's when you generate your private keys and create the recovery phrase that will serve as the only backup to your funds. Take your time, ensure you are in a private environment, and follow these steps carefully.
Download Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the companion app for your device. It allows you to install apps, create accounts, and manage your portfolio. Always download it from the official ledger.com website to avoid phishing scams.
Get the AppInitialize your device
Connect your Ledger to your computer or smartphone. Follow the on-screen instructions on the device itself. You will be asked to set up a PIN code. This PIN is your first line of defense against unauthorized physical access. Choose a code that is not easy to guess.
Write down your Recovery Phrase
This is the most important step. Your device will display a series of 24 words. Write them down on the Recovery Sheet provided in the box. Verify each word carefully. If you lose your device or forget your PIN, this phrase is the only way to restore access to your funds.
Install Apps & Add Accounts
Once initialized, use Ledger Live to install apps for the blockchains you want to use (e.g., Bitcoin app, Ethereum app). Then, add accounts to start receiving funds. Your device needs to be connected and unlocked to verify these actions.
Ledger Live Interface
Secure Element
CC EAL5+ Certified Security
Understanding Hardware Security
What is Cold Storage?
Cold storage refers to keeping cryptocurrency tokens offline. Unlike "hot wallets" (software wallets connected to the internet), cold wallets like Ledger devices store your private keys in an offline environment. This isolation creates an air gap between your sensitive data and the internet, making it virtually impossible for hackers to steal your funds remotely. When you make a transaction, the Ledger device signs it internally and only broadcasts the signed result to the network. Your private keys never leave the secure chip.
The Role of the Secure Element
Ledger devices are powered by a Secure Element (SE) chip—the same technology used in passports and credit cards. This chip is designed to withstand sophisticated physical attacks. Even if someone were to steal your device and attempt to extract the keys by measuring power consumption or electromagnetic emissions, the SE is engineered to counteract these side-channel attacks. Combined with our custom operating system, BOLOS, this provides a fortress for your digital wealth.
Managing the Web3 Ecosystem
The crypto landscape has evolved far beyond simple transfers. Today, users engage with DeFi protocols, collect NFTs, and participate in DAOs. Ledger Live integrates with various providers to allow you to stake your assets (earning rewards), swap tokens, and manage your NFT collection securely. For interactions with dApps that aren't natively supported, you can use "Ledger Connect" or connect your device to third-party wallets like MetaMask, ensuring that while the interface may be external, the security remains anchored in your hardware device.
Security Best Practices
Your safety is our priority. Follow these golden rules to keep your assets safe.
Always verify on device
Computer screens can be manipulated by malware. Always trust what you see on your Ledger device screen before confirming a transaction.
Never type your phrase
Never enter your 24-word recovery phrase on a computer, smartphone, or website. It should only ever be entered on the Ledger device itself.
Keep it physical
Store your recovery sheet in a safe, physical location. Consider a fireproof backup or a steel capsule for added durability.
Ignore direct messages
Scammers often impersonate support staff on social media. Ledger will never DM you asking for funds or your recovery phrase.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I lose my device?
Your funds are not stored on the device itself, but on the blockchain. The device holds the keys. If you lose it, you can restore access to your funds on a new Ledger device (or any compatible wallet) using your 24-word recovery phrase.
Can I use Ledger with my phone?
Yes. The Ledger Nano X features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to connect wirelessly to the Ledger Live mobile app on iOS and Android. The Nano S Plus can connect to Android via an OTG cable.
Is Ledger Live free?
Yes, Ledger Live is free to download and use. However, network fees (gas fees) for transactions are paid to the blockchain miners/validators, not to Ledger.
What coins are supported?
Ledger supports over 5,500 crypto assets including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Cardano, and many more. Most ERC-20 tokens are also supported natively within Ledger Live.
Ready to secure your financial freedom?
Join millions of users who trust Ledger for their crypto security.