Introduction
Your Ledger hardware wallet is built to protect your cryptocurrencies and digital assets with industry-leading security. This updated guide walks you through the essential steps to begin your journey confidently — from unboxing your device to managing assets in Ledger Live. Whether you're completely new to self-custody or simply upgrading your process, this walkthrough ensures clarity, safety, and control at every stage.
Understanding Self-Custody
In traditional finance, banks safeguard your assets. In crypto, you can choose to take direct control. This control comes from owning your private keys — something your Ledger device generates and protects offline. Self‑custody eliminates reliance on third parties, reduces exposure to exchange hacks, and gives you full ownership. With this ownership also comes responsibility, which this guide will help you manage safely.
What Comes in the Box
- Your Ledger hardware wallet device
- USB cable or Bluetooth-enabled connectivity (depending on the model)
- Recovery phrase sheets
- Documentation and getting-started materials
Before powering on, make sure that the box was not previously opened or repackaged. Ledger devices are never shipped with pre-written recovery phrases. If you encounter anything suspicious, stop and contact official support.
Step 1 — Install Ledger Live
Ledger Live is your gateway to managing digital assets, installing blockchain apps, updating firmware, and verifying transactions. Only download it from the official Ledger website. Once installed, open the app and select "Initialize as new device" to begin the guided setup.
Step 2 — Power On and Choose Your PIN
Connect your Ledger device. It will prompt you to choose a PIN code — typically 4 to 8 digits. Select a PIN that is easy for you to remember but difficult for others to guess. Never share your PIN, and never store it digitally.
Step 3 — Your Recovery Phrase
Your device will present a unique 24‑word recovery phrase. This phrase is the single backup to your private keys and therefore the ultimate backup to your crypto. Write the phrase down carefully, in order, and only on the recovery sheet provided. Never take a photo, store it in cloud storage, or type it into your computer or phone. Anyone with your phrase can access your funds — treat it like gold.
Step 4 — Confirm Your Phrase
Your device will ask you to confirm several randomly selected words from your phrase. This ensures that you wrote the phrase down accurately. Double‑check every word — accuracy is critical.
Step 5 — Device Dashboard
After confirmation, your device will display its main dashboard. Think of this as your secure interface. To manage assets, you’ll install cryptocurrency apps from Ledger Live’s “Manager” section. The number of apps you can install depends on your device model, but you can always uninstall and reinstall them without affecting your accounts.
Adding Cryptocurrency Accounts
Each blockchain requires its own app. For example, Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana all have separate apps. Once the correct app is installed, go to "Accounts" in Ledger Live and click "Add Account." Ledger Live will detect your device and sync account information. Your crypto stays on the blockchain — not on the device — so adding or removing accounts will never risk your assets.
Sending and Receiving Crypto
To receive crypto, select the asset in Ledger Live and generate a receiving address. Always verify the address on your Ledger device screen before sharing or using it. Your device screen cannot be tampered with, making it the most reliable source of truth. To send crypto, enter the recipient address in Ledger Live and confirm details on your device before approving.
Firmware Updates
Ledger regularly releases firmware updates to strengthen security and enhance compatibility. Ledger Live will notify you if an update is available. Always verify update prompts inside Ledger Live and avoid clicking links in emails or messages claiming to be from Ledger.
Advanced Options
Power users can enable optional features such as passphrases, multiple accounts, or integrations with third‑party DeFi platforms. Passphrases allow you to create an additional layer of protection using a unique word or sentence. While helpful, passphrase use should only be enabled after fully understanding the implications.
Restoring Your Wallet
If you replace your Ledger device, lose it, or it becomes damaged, you can restore your wallet on a new Ledger device using your 24‑word recovery phrase. During recovery, the device will prompt you to enter each word using its built‑in controls. Once complete, your accounts and balances will appear in Ledger Live as before.
Security Tips
- Never share your 24‑word recovery phrase with anyone — no exceptions.
- Ledger employees or support will never ask for your recovery phrase.
- Always verify URLs before entering sensitive information.
- Confirm transactions on your hardware device screen — not just your computer.
- Store your recovery phrase in a secure location, preferably with a metal backup for longevity.
Common Misconceptions
“Ledger stores my crypto.”
The device stores your private keys, not your crypto. Your crypto always lives on the blockchain.
“I can recover my wallet without my phrase.”
The recovery phrase is mandatory. Without it, funds cannot be restored.
“I don’t need to verify addresses on‑device.”
Verifying on‑device prevents phishing and malware attacks. Always confirm on the Ledger screen.
Moving Forward
Now that your device is set up, you can begin exploring deeper features such as staking, DeFi protocols, decentralized apps, cross‑chain transactions, and long‑term cold‑storage strategies. As you grow your knowledge and portfolio, your Ledger device remains the core of your security.