Welcome! This colorful, presentation‑style page walks you through everything you need to know to set up, secure, and confidently use your Ledger hardware wallet. We’ll cover models, first‑time setup, recovery phrases, firmware, Ledger Live, and best practices—so your crypto stays yours.
Ledger wallets are hardware wallets—small, secure devices that keep your private keys offline. Unlike software wallets or exchanges, a hardware wallet isolates critical secrets from the internet, dramatically reducing your exposure to malware, phishing, or exchange failures.
Why It Matters
Ownership: You control the private keys—so you control the assets.
Offline security: Keys never leave the device; transactions are signed internally.
Verifiable actions: On‑device screens let you verify addresses and amounts before approving.
Popular Models
Ledger Nano S Plus
Affordable, secure, feature‑rich. Ideal for beginners managing a focused portfolio.
Ledger Nano X
Bluetooth support and more storage for apps—great for mobile‑first users and travelers.
Ledger Stax
Premium experience with a curved E‑Ink touchscreen and Qi charging for power users.
Download Ledger Live for your desktop or mobile device. This companion app lets you manage accounts, install apps on the device, and send/receive assets.
Power On & Choose a PIN
Connect your device via USB (or power on). Follow on‑screen prompts to set a strong PIN (avoid birthdays or repeating digits). Keep it private.
Generate & Write Your Recovery Phrase
Your Ledger displays 24 words in order. Write them down by hand on the provided sheets. Never type them into a computer, phone, or camera; never take photos.
Warning: Anyone with these 24 words can control your funds. Store them offline in separate, safe locations.
Verify the Phrase
The device will ask you to confirm the words in sequence. Take your time—this is the only backup if the device is lost or damaged.
Update Firmware
Open Ledger Live > My Ledger to check for firmware updates. Keeping firmware current ensures the latest security patches and features.
Install Apps & Add Accounts
Within My Ledger, install coin apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). Then add accounts in Ledger Live to track balances and receive addresses.
Sending & Receiving
Receive
Choose an account in Ledger Live, click Receive, and verify the address on the device screen. Share the address only after confirming it matches.
Send
Paste the recipient address, check network/fees, and confirm on your device. Always verify each detail on the hardware screen before approving.
Security Best Practices
Keep the 24 words offline; never store digitally.
Enable a passphrase (advanced) for an extra layer of protection.
Beware of phishing—bookmarks only, and double‑check URLs.
Use a dedicated, clean computer account for crypto tasks.
Consider fire‑resistant or metal backup plates for long‑term storage.
Advanced Tips
Using a Passphrase
A passphrase adds a 25th word that derives a different wallet. Memorize it and never write it next to your recovery phrase. If forgotten, funds in that passphrase‑protected wallet are not recoverable.
Multiple Accounts & Apps
You can manage multiple accounts within a single asset. If storage gets tight, uninstall coin apps from the device—your accounts remain in Ledger Live; funds are on‑chain.
DeFi & Web3
Connect Ledger to Web3 apps using Ledger Live’s Discover section or via trusted wallet connectors. Always confirm transaction details on the device.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Typing the recovery phrase online: This is the #1 way people lose funds.
Buying used devices: Attackers can pre‑configure or tamper with them.
Ignoring updates: Out‑of‑date firmware or software may miss security fixes.
Mixing networks: Sending assets to the wrong chain/network can cause loss.
Address haste: Not verifying on‑device before sending large amounts.
Quick FAQ
What happens if I lose the device?
Buy a new Ledger and restore using the 24‑word recovery phrase. Your funds live on the blockchain, not on the device.
Is Bluetooth on Nano X safe?
Yes. All critical operations occur within the secure element; Bluetooth only transports encrypted data.
Can I hold NFTs?
Yes. Manage supported NFTs with Ledger Live or trusted third‑party interfaces, always confirming actions on‑device.
What if I forget my PIN?
After too many wrong attempts the device resets. Restore using your recovery phrase.
How often should I update?
Check Ledger Live monthly; install firmware and app updates when available.
Official Ledger Links (10×)
All links open in a new tab. Bookmark the official domains to avoid phishing.
Explore the Academy, practice small test transactions, and gradually expand your setup with passphrases and multiple accounts. Review good opsec habits quarterly.