Get Started with Ledger | Ledger Wallet

Welcome to Ledger, your trusted partner in securing your cryptocurrency assets. This guide will walk you step-by-step through setting up your Ledger hardware wallet, installing software, and best practices to manage crypto safely and confidently.

Why Use a Ledger Hardware Wallet?

In the digital world, security is paramount. A Ledger hardware wallet stores your private keys offline, away from malware, phishing attacks, and unauthorized access. With Ledger, you retain full control over your cryptos.

Before You Begin

Gather these items before you start:

Tip: Always purchase your Ledger from the official website or authorized reseller to avoid counterfeit devices.

Step 1: Unbox and Inspect

When your Ledger arrives:

If you find signs of tampering, do not proceed—contact Ledger support immediately.

Step 2: Visit the Official Setup Portal

Open your browser and go to ledger.com/start. This is the official and safest place to begin your setup process. Avoid using links from emails, social media, or search results that are not clearly the official domain. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Step 3: Download and Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the companion application that helps you manage your wallet, install coin apps, and perform transactions.

  1. From ledger.com/start, download Ledger Live for your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android). :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
  2. Install and launch the application.
  3. Follow on-screen prompts to begin the setup workflow. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Step 4: Initialize the Ledger Device

With Ledger Live open and your hardware connected:

  1. Choose to set up as a new device (or restore an existing wallet if you already have a recovery phrase). :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
  2. Set a strong PIN code (4–8 digits). The device randomizes the keypad layout for security.
  3. A 24-word recovery phrase will be generated. Write it down carefully in order. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
  4. Confirm your recovery phrase by selecting correct words as prompted.
Your recovery phrase is the only backup of your funds. Never type it into a computer, take a photo, or share it. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

Step 5: Verify and Update Firmware

Once initialization is done, Ledger Live will guide you to:

Step 6: Install Coin Apps & Add Accounts

In Ledger Live:

  1. Go to Manager and install the apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage (e.g. Bitcoin, Ethereum). :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
  2. Navigate to Accounts and click “Add Account” for each coin. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
  3. Ledger Live will scan and sync balance and historical transaction data.

Step 7: Use Your Ledger Wallet (Send & Receive)

Security Best Practices

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Device Not Recognized

Forgot PIN

If you enter the wrong PIN too many times, the device will reset. You can then use your recovery phrase to restore your wallet. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}

Missing App or Coin

If you don’t see a specific cryptocurrency:

Glossary / Pseudocode

// Simplified flow for Ledger setup & transaction
start()
  downloadLedgerLive()
  connectDevice()
  if newDevice:
    initDevice()
  else:
    restoreFromSeed()
  setPIN()
  backupSeed()
  verifyDeviceAuthenticity()
  installApps()
  addAccounts()
  while (userWantsToTransact) {
    tx = createTransaction()
    device.show(tx.details)
    if (userConfirms) {
      signed = device.sign(tx)
      ledgerLive.broadcast(signed)
    }
  }
end()

Supported Devices & Models

Model Connectivity Max Apps Capacity
Ledger Nano S Plus USB‑C wired Medium (multi apps)
Ledger Nano X USB‑C + Bluetooth Higher (many apps)

Next Moves & Ecosystem Integration

Once your wallet is live, you can: