Introduction
This document is an approachable 1,100‑word walkthrough to help you get started with Ledger. It covers why a hardware wallet matters, the steps to set up your Ledger device via Ledger Live and Ledger.com/start, best practices for storing your recovery phrase, and quick troubleshooting tips. Use the headings (H1 → H5) to navigate, and copy the HTML when you want a colorful, print‑ready slide or webpage.
Why use a Ledger hardware wallet?
Hardware wallets store your private keys offline. That means the cryptographic keys that control access to your crypto never touch an internet-connected device — drastically reducing exposure to hacks, malware, and phishing. A Ledger device gives you both portability and high security: the device signs transactions locally and shows transaction details on its screen so you can confirm them physically.
Core benefits
- Private keys remain offline — safer than hot wallets.
- Wide coin support through Ledger Live and third-party apps.
- Recovery phrase (24 words) lets you recover assets if the device is lost.
Step-by-step setup (quick)
- Buy from an authorized seller: Only purchase Ledger devices from the official store or trusted retailers to avoid tampered units.
- Go to Ledger.com/start: This official start page will guide you to download Ledger Live (desktop or mobile) and verify your device.
- Unbox carefully: Inspect tamper seals and packaging. If something looks off, contact Ledger support.
- Install Ledger Live: Download the app from the official site and follow the on‑screen instructions. Ledger Live manages apps and helps install coin support.
- Initialize device: Choose to create a new wallet on the device. The device will generate a 24‑word recovery phrase — write these words on the provided card and store them securely offline.
- Verify your recovery phrase: Ledger will prompt you to confirm words shown; never take a picture or store them in cloud notes.
- Add accounts in Ledger Live: Use Ledger Live to add the coin accounts you want (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Ledger Live will open the right app on your device for confirmations.
- Receive funds: Always verify the receive address on your Ledger device screen before copying it into an exchange or another wallet.
Visual checklist
Best practices and security
Security is a social and technical practice. Alongside your Ledger device, adopt habits that minimize human error and exposure.
Storing your recovery phrase
- Write the 24 words on paper (or use a metal seed backup) and store copies in geographically separated, secure locations (e.g., safe deposit box, home safe).
- Never enter the phrase into a phone, email, cloud note, or take a photo. Anyone who captures it can drain funds.
Using Ledger safely
- Always confirm transaction details on the device screen before approving.
- Beware of phishing: only connect Ledger Live to the official site and ignore unsolicited links or pop-ups.
- Use a strong PIN and never share it.
Troubleshooting & common questions
Device not recognized
If Ledger Live does not detect your device, try a different USB cable or port and make sure you have the latest Ledger Live installed. Reboot your computer and replug the device. If problems persist, use Ledger’s support resources on Ledger.com/start.
Lost recovery phrase
If you lose the recovery phrase and still have access to the device, transfer funds to a new wallet immediately and generate a new recovery phrase. If the device is lost and you have no recovery phrase, funds cannot be recovered.
Suspicious activity or tampering
Stop using the device, move any remaining funds to a new wallet if possible, and contact Ledger support. Do not share your recovery phrase with anyone, including support agents; no legitimate support will ever ask for it.
Extra resources
Ledger’s official start page has the latest downloads and verified support articles. Bookmark Ledger.com/start and consult it before making major changes. Below are quick links to helpful resources and 10 office-style links you can use in documentation or slides.