Getting Started with Ledger

Welcome to Ledger! Your journey to securing your digital assets starts here. Ledger hardware wallets are designed to protect your cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and other blockchain assets with the highest level of security. This guide provides a comprehensive step-by-step setup process, ensuring that your wallet is configured correctly and your assets are safe.

1. Unboxing and Verification

Start by unboxing your Ledger device. Ensure that the package contains:

  • Ledger hardware wallet device
  • USB cable
  • Recovery phrase cards
  • Quick-start guide

Check the device for tampering. Ledger devices never come with pre-written recovery phrases. If your recovery phrase is already filled out, do not use the device.

2. Power On and Choose Setup Option

Connect your Ledger device to your computer or mobile device using the provided USB cable. When powered on, select one of the following options:

  • Create a new wallet: Generates a new recovery phrase and private keys.
  • Restore an existing wallet: Input a recovery phrase from a previous Ledger device to regain access to your funds.

3. Create a Secure PIN Code

Your Ledger device will prompt you to create a PIN code. This PIN is required each time you connect your device. Avoid common sequences like "1234" or repeated digits. If the wrong PIN is entered multiple times, the device will reset to protect your funds.

4. Generate and Protect Your Recovery Phrase

Ledger devices generate a 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is the only way to restore your wallet if your device is lost or damaged.

  • Write the words on the recovery sheet provided.
  • Verify each word and its order.
  • Store the sheet in a secure, offline location.
  • Never take photos or save digitally.
  • Do not share your recovery phrase with anyone.

5. Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official companion app to manage your Ledger device and accounts. Download it only from official sources to avoid malware. Ledger Live allows you to track balances, install blockchain apps, and manage transactions securely.

6. Connect Ledger to Ledger Live

Open Ledger Live and connect your device. Unlock it with your PIN. Ledger Live will perform an authenticity check to confirm that your device is genuine.

7. Install Blockchain Apps

Each cryptocurrency you want to manage requires its own app on the Ledger device. In Ledger Live, navigate to "My Ledger" and install the apps you need. Only install the apps for assets you plan to use.

8. Add Accounts in Ledger Live

After installing apps, add accounts for each blockchain. Select "Add Account" in Ledger Live, connect your Ledger, and approve the action on your device. Your account will now appear in the dashboard.

9. Receive Cryptocurrency

To receive funds, select "Receive" in Ledger Live and choose the account. Ledger will display the receiving address on both the device and the app. Verify that they match, then share or copy the address for transactions.

10. Send Cryptocurrency

To send crypto, select "Send" in Ledger Live, enter the recipient address and amount. The device will display transaction details. Confirm everything carefully before approving to ensure no unauthorized transfers occur.

11. Keep Firmware Updated

Ledger frequently releases firmware updates to improve security and compatibility. Update only through Ledger Live and never from unofficial sources. Keeping your device up-to-date ensures maximum protection.

12. Long-Term Security Best Practices

  • Keep your recovery phrase offline and secure.
  • Verify addresses and transactions on your device before confirming.
  • Be vigilant against phishing attempts.
  • Regularly update Ledger Live and device firmware.
  • Consider additional offline storage for backups.

Conclusion

By completing these steps, your Ledger device is fully set up and ready to secure your cryptocurrency assets. From unboxing and PIN setup to recovery phrase management and blockchain app installation, every action reinforces your wallet's safety. With Ledger, you can confidently participate in the crypto ecosystem knowing your funds are protected. Stay vigilant, follow security best practices, and enjoy managing your digital assets with peace of mind.