Welcome to the official setup guide for your new Ledger hardware wallet. As the global leader in security and infrastructure for cryptocurrencies and blockchain applications, Ledger provides the most secure way to manage your digital assets.
Your Ledger device combines a Secure Element chip with a proprietary operating system designed specifically to protect your cryptocurrencies. Unlike software wallets, your private keys never leave the device, ensuring complete protection against online threats.
This step-by-step guide will help you initialize your device, create your recovery phrase, install essential applications, and begin securely managing your growing portfolio of digital assets.
Follow these essential steps to configure your Ledger device and ensure maximum security for your cryptocurrencies.
Carefully unbox your Ledger device and all accessories. Connect your device to your computer using the provided USB cable. Visit Ledger.com/start in your browser to download Ledger Live, our official management application.
Download and install Ledger Live for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux). This application will serve as your dashboard for managing cryptocurrencies, installing apps, and checking your portfolio balances.
Follow the on-screen instructions in Ledger Live to initialize your device. Choose a PIN code with 4-8 digits that you'll use to unlock your device. This PIN protects your device from unauthorized physical access.
Your device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. Write these words in exact order on your recovery sheet. Store this sheet in a secure location. This phrase is your backup if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged.
Verify that you've correctly recorded your recovery phrase by selecting the words in the proper order when prompted. This critical step ensures you can recover your assets if needed.
Use Ledger Live's Manager to install applications for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage. Each currency requires its own application on your Ledger device to generate addresses and sign transactions.
Ledger devices incorporate multiple layers of security to protect your assets against both physical and digital threats.
Bank-grade security chip that isolates your private keys from internet-connected devices
Device locks after 3 incorrect PIN attempts, protecting against brute force attacks
24-word backup phrase lets you recover your assets on any compatible wallet
Private keys never leave your device, remaining safe from online threats