Your comprehensive guide to setting up and securing your cryptocurrency with the world's most trusted hardware wallet.
When you receive your Ledger device, carefully inspect the packaging for any signs of tampering. Your genuine Ledger device should come in sealed packaging with security stickers intact. Inside, you'll find your Ledger device, a USB cable, recovery phrase cards, and a getting started leaflet. Never use a device that appears to have been opened or tampered with, as this could compromise your security.
Ledger Live is your gateway to managing your cryptocurrencies securely. Download it exclusively from ledger.com/ledger-live to ensure authenticity. The software is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. During installation, the software will verify its authenticity automatically. Ledger Live serves as both your wallet interface and device management tool, allowing you to install cryptocurrency apps, update firmware, and manage your portfolio all in one place.
Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the provided USB cable. Follow the on-screen instructions to choose your PIN code - make it something memorable but not easily guessable. Your device will then generate a unique 24-word recovery phrase. Write these words down in the exact order on the provided recovery cards using a pen, never digitally. This phrase is the master key to your funds and must be kept absolutely secure and private. Store it in multiple safe locations, separate from your device.
Through Ledger Live's Manager section, install the apps for cryptocurrencies you want to manage. Each cryptocurrency requires its own app due to security architecture - Bitcoin needs the Bitcoin app, Ethereum needs the Ethereum app, and so on. Your device has limited storage, but you can install and uninstall apps as needed without affecting your funds. Popular apps include Bitcoin, Ethereum, Cardano, Solana, and Polygon. The installation process is secure and authenticated through your device.
In Ledger Live, navigate to the Accounts section and click "Add Account." Select your desired cryptocurrency and follow the prompts. Your Ledger device will display an address - verify that this matches exactly what appears in Ledger Live before confirming. This process creates a secure account that only you can access with your device and PIN. You can create multiple accounts for the same cryptocurrency for better organization, and each account will have its own unique receiving addresses for enhanced privacy.
To receive cryptocurrency, use the "Receive" function in Ledger Live to generate a receiving address. Always verify the address on your device screen before sharing it. For sending funds, use the "Send" function, enter the recipient's address and amount, then confirm the transaction on your device by physically pressing the buttons. Your Ledger device acts as a secure signature device - no transaction can be completed without your physical confirmation, protecting you from malware and unauthorized transfers.
Never share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone, never enter it on any website or software, and never take a photo of it. Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase. Your device and recovery phrase are the only two things needed to access your funds - keep them secure and separate.