Why a hardware wallet matters
Hardware wallets keep your private keys offline ("cold storage") and isolated from web-connected devices. That reduces risk from malware, phishing, and remote hacks. Treat your device and recovery information as the keys to your digital treasury — protect them like you would a physical safe.
Before you start (what to prepare)
Checklist
- Buy a new Ledger device from an authorized channel (avoid second-hand devices).
- Have a clean computer or phone to download Ledger Live from the official page: https://www.ledger.com/start.
- Print or write the recovery phrase on the supplied recovery card — do not store it as a digital file or photo.
- Choose a private, offline spot to perform initial setup.
Step-by-step setup (high level)
1. Verify your device and official software
Unbox the device, inspect the packaging, and follow the official onboarding steps. Obtain the Ledger Live application directly from the official start page and official stores: ledger.com/start. Never follow links from unsolicited emails or social media DMs.
2. Initialize device & create PIN
Power on the Ledger, choose a secure PIN (not simple like 1234), and follow the prompts to generate your recovery phrase. The device will show the words — write them down in order, and confirm when asked.
3. Store recovery phrase securely
Keep the physical recovery card/sheet in a secure location. Consider using multiple secure physical copies (different safe locations) or metal backup plates for disaster resistance. Never store the phrase in cloud storage or as a photo on your phone.
4. Install apps and manage accounts
Use Ledger Live to install only the cryptocurrency apps you need (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Ledger Live is the official manager app and is available from the official start page: https://www.ledger.com/start.
Security hygiene & best practices
Keep firmware and software up to date
Apply firmware updates through Ledger Live when released; updates patch vulnerabilities and add protections. Always confirm updates using the official app and device prompts.
Never reveal your recovery phrase
No legitimate support agent or service will ask for your 24-word seed. If anyone asks for it — treat it as a scam and stop communication immediately.
Consider passphrase protection (advanced)
Ledger supports an optional passphrase in addition to the recovery phrase; this effectively creates hidden accounts. Use passphrases only if you understand the added complexity and risk (losing the passphrase = losing access).
Physical security
Store devices and recovery backups separately. Use tamper-evident packaging and keep a record of purchase details for warranty or support.
Phishing awareness
Phishing attempts may copy the look of official sites. Always verify you are on the correct domain before entering any sensitive information or downloading software: https://www.ledger.com/start.
Troubleshooting & support
Where to get legitimate help
If you need official instructions or downloads, start at the official Ledger start page and Support pages — never share the recovery phrase on support channels. Official resources and downloads are centralized from the start portal: ledger.com/start.
Common issues
- Device not recognized: check USB cable/port and the official Ledger Live troubleshooting docs.
- App installation failures: free up space and ensure firmware is current.
- Lost recovery phrase: if lost and you still have device access, create a new wallet and transfer funds; if you lose both device and phrase, funds are unrecoverable.
Long-term ownership checklist
- Keep at least one offline backup of your recovery phrase (metal plate recommended for fire/water resistance).
- Rotate storage locations if you are concerned about physical theft or geopolitical risk.
- Rehearse recovery with a small test transfer and restore to a spare device if you rely on someone else to recover funds for you in an emergency.
Reminder: always download Ledger Live or any Ledger firmware from the official start page: https://www.ledger.com/start.