Welcome to Ledger — Begin Your Secure Crypto Journey

This page walks you through everything you need to know to get started with your Ledger device — from setup to security fundamentals, to exploring the broader Web3 ecosystem safely. This updated guide provides clearer explanations, expanded steps, and a user‑friendly structure for both beginners and advanced holders.

What Ledger Does for You

Ledger is a hardware wallet designed to keep your crypto safe by storing private keys offline. Unlike software wallets or exchanges, which remain connected to the internet and are vulnerable to attacks, Ledger isolates your private keys in a secure hardware environment. This gives you full control and dramatically reduces risk.

With Ledger, you get a combination of physical security, intuitive software, and broad digital asset support. Whether holding Bitcoin, Ethereum, NFTs, or staking tokens, Ledger provides a unified and secure experience.

Offline Protection

Your keys never touch the internet, keeping your assets protected from online threats.

DeFi & Web3 Ready

Connect securely to dapps, stake assets, and explore the crypto ecosystem confidently.

Unified Management

Use Ledger Live to track, buy, sell, and manage assets in one place.

How to Start Using Your Ledger

Follow these expanded onboarding steps to set up your Ledger correctly. Each step is designed to help you understand the hardware, secure your recovery phrase, and connect to Ledger Live safely.

  1. Inspect your device: Make sure your Ledger arrives in factory packaging with no signs of tampering. Ledger devices never come preconfigured — if something looks suspicious, contact support.
  2. Download Ledger Live: Always install Ledger Live from the official site. Ledger Live is your control center to manage apps, verify firmware, install crypto accounts, and view your portfolio at a glance.
  3. Set up your PIN: Once powered on, your Ledger device will guide you through creating a PIN. This protects your device from unauthorized physical access.
  4. Write down your 24‑word recovery phrase: The most important step. These 24 words are the only backup to your crypto. Never type them on a computer, phone, or upload them online.
  5. Install crypto apps in Ledger Live: Each supported blockchain has a corresponding app. Install the ones you need, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Polygon.
  6. Add accounts and transfer crypto: Create accounts inside Ledger Live. You can now send and receive crypto with addresses verified on your device screen.
  7. Connect to Web3 dapps: Use WalletConnect or integrated partners to interact with DeFi, NFTs, and more. Always confirm every transaction on your Ledger device.

Security Best Practices

Security is not just about hardware — it’s also about good habits. These key principles help ensure long-term protection of your digital assets.

Protect Your Recovery Phrase

Store your recovery phrase offline in a location only you can access. Consider using metal backup plates for extra durability. If anyone gains access to your phrase, they can take your crypto — no exceptions.

Avoid Impersonators

Ledger will never contact you asking for your recovery phrase. Phishing websites, fake apps, and scam profiles often attempt this. Always double-check links and download sources.

Explore the Ledger Ecosystem

Ledger is more than a hardware wallet — it's a full platform that lets you interact with the expanding digital asset universe. From managing tokens to staking and secure dapp connections, Ledger provides a unified experience focused on both safety and convenience.

NFT Management

Store and view your NFTs securely while maintaining full ownership.

Staking Rewards

Earn rewards by staking assets like ETH, DOT, or ATOM directly from Ledger Live.

Buy, Sell & Swap

Use integrated partners to buy crypto or exchange assets while keeping keys offline.

Quick Checklist

  • Update Ledger Live and firmware regularly
  • Verify transaction details on your device screen
  • Backup your recovery phrase in multiple safe locations
  • Use only official Ledger URLs and applications