Your Ultimate Ledger Start Guide

Welcome to Ledger! In this guide, we’ll walk you through setting up your Ledger hardware wallet, securing your cryptocurrencies, and efficiently managing your digital assets from start to finish.

Step 1: Unboxing Your Ledger

Your Ledger package contains the hardware wallet, USB cable, recovery card, and quick-start guide. Check for tampering. Ledger devices are never shipped pre-configured, ensuring your crypto remains secure.

Step 2: Connect and Initialize

Connect your Ledger to a computer. Choose between:

  • Create a new wallet: Set up a new PIN and generate a recovery phrase.
  • Recover wallet: Restore an existing wallet using your recovery phrase.

Step 3: Set a Secure PIN

Choose a PIN that is hard to guess. Avoid patterns and repetitions. Your device locks temporarily after multiple incorrect attempts to prevent unauthorized access.

Step 4: Secure Your Recovery Phrase

Ledger provides a 24-word recovery phrase. This is the ultimate backup to restore your wallet. Protect it at all costs.

  • Write the words in order on the recovery card.
  • Never store it digitally or online.
  • Keep multiple safe backups in separate locations.
  • Do not share your recovery phrase.

Step 5: Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official management software for your wallet. Download it directly from Ledger’s website. With Ledger Live, you can:

  • Install and manage apps for different cryptocurrencies
  • Track balances and portfolio performance
  • Send and receive crypto securely
  • Review transaction history in real-time

Step 6: Connect Ledger to Ledger Live

Open Ledger Live and connect your device. Verify your PIN and recovery phrase to confirm the device is genuine and ready for transactions.

Step 7: Add Cryptocurrency Accounts

Install apps for each cryptocurrency you want to use. Then add accounts in Ledger Live to monitor balances and transactions securely.

Step 8: Receiving Cryptocurrency

Use the “Receive” feature in Ledger Live and confirm the address on your device. Only use verified addresses for safety.

Step 9: Sending Cryptocurrency

Use the “Send” option, enter the recipient’s address, amount, and confirm the transaction on your Ledger. Always double-check addresses to prevent loss.

Step 10: Firmware Updates

Keep your device secure with regular firmware updates. Only update via Ledger Live to prevent exposure to unverified sources.

Step 11: Long-Term Security Tips

  • Store recovery phrases offline in multiple secure locations.
  • Always verify addresses on your device before sending crypto.
  • Be vigilant against phishing attempts and malware.
  • Keep Ledger Live and firmware updated.
  • Consider geographically separated backups for added security.

Your Ledger Wallet is Ready

Your Ledger device is now fully set up and secure. With these steps, you can confidently manage, send, and receive cryptocurrencies while keeping your digital assets safe from online threats.