Quick 5-minute setup guide and slide notes for a presentation. Keep your recovery phrase private — Ledger never asks for it.
Ledger hardware wallets keep your private keys offline so you control access to your crypto. This guide walks through unboxing, installing Ledger Live, initializing your device, backing up the recovery phrase, and using Ledger safely.
A hardware wallet isolates your private keys in a secure element — making it far harder for malware or remote attackers to reach them. Combine a Ledger device with Ledger Live to manage accounts, install apps, and sign transactions while keeping keys offline.
Ledger Live is the official app used to configure devices and manage crypto. Select the correct OS (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android) and verify the downloaded file if you want an additional security step.
Turn on the device and choose to set up as a new device. Create a PIN when prompted — pick something memorable but not easily guessable.
The device will generate a 24-word Secret Recovery Phrase. Write it down on the provided recovery sheet — do not store it digitally or share it. This phrase is the only backup to recover your accounts if your device is lost or damaged.
You will be asked to confirm a few words from the phrase on the device to prove you wrote it down correctly.
Open Ledger Live, add an account for the cryptocurrency you hold, and follow the on-screen prompts to connect your device and synchronize account balances.
Ledger devices use small on-device apps for each blockchain (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.). Install the apps you need through Ledger Live’s Manager before adding the corresponding accounts.
Ledger or any legitimate service will never ask for your recovery phrase or private keys. Beware of phishing websites, fake apps, and social engineering attempts requesting your seed words.
Always download Ledger Live from the official site and, when possible, verify the file signature or checksums provided by Ledger to ensure authenticity.
If you need to recover accounts on a new Ledger device, use the recovery phrase during setup to restore access. Do this only on a genuine Ledger device and in a secure environment.
If your recovery phrase is lost and you no longer have access to the device, funds cannot be retrieved. Consider Ledger Recover or similar secure backup options if you want a managed backup solution.
Note: Always verify important software downloads and be vigilant against fake apps and phishing attempts. If in doubt, consult Ledger’s official support and documentation pages.