Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started™ | Ledger®®
Your introduction to hardware wallets and digital asset security
1. Introduction
Welcome to the Ledger getting-started guide. Ledger hardware wallets help users protect the private keys associated with their cryptocurrency assets. With the official Ledger Wallet application, users can manage supported digital assets, review balances, and authorize transactions through their device.
This guide introduces the essential setup steps, account safety practices, usage guidelines, and common questions for beginners. Before installing software or entering sensitive information, verify that you are using a legitimate Ledger resource.
Official resources:
2. User Manual: Getting Started
Step 1: Prepare your device. Obtain your hardware wallet from a trusted source and inspect its packaging. Never use a device supplied with a preconfigured PIN or recovery phrase.
Step 2: Install the official application. Visit Ledger's official website and follow the instructions for downloading Ledger Wallet for your compatible device.
Step 3: Configure your wallet. Follow the instructions displayed on your hardware wallet to create a PIN and complete the initial setup.
Step 4: Back up your recovery phrase. Carefully write down the recovery words displayed by your device, in the correct order. Keep them offline in a secure location.
Step 5: Add supported accounts. Use the official application to install the necessary blockchain applications and add compatible accounts.
Step 6: Review transactions. Always verify the recipient address, asset, and amount on your hardware wallet's trusted display before approving a transaction.
3. Policies and Terms
Security policy: Users are responsible for protecting their PIN, recovery phrase, and device. Never disclose recovery words or private keys to another person.
Usage policy: Use authentic software, keep your devices updated, and follow official instructions. Avoid unauthorized downloads and suspicious links.
Privacy policy: Review the applicable privacy notice before sharing personal information or using optional services. Never assume an unfamiliar website is operated by Ledger.
Financial risk: Cryptocurrency values fluctuate, transactions may be irreversible, and network fees may apply. Users should understand these risks before transferring assets.
Terms of use: Product availability, supported assets, software features, and service conditions may vary. Consult Ledger's official terms and documentation for current requirements.
4. Important Security Warning
Never share your 24-word Secret Recovery Phrase with anyone. Ledger support will never ask you to reveal it. Do not enter it into a website, chat, email, or computer application.
Be cautious of websites that imitate Ledger branding, promise instant wallet activation, or demand recovery words to synchronize an account. A professional-looking design does not establish authenticity.
If a website requests your recovery phrase, stop immediately and verify the destination through official Ledger resources.
5. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is Ledger?
Ledger provides hardware wallets designed to protect private keys and support self-custody of digital assets.
Q2. Is a hardware wallet necessary?
It can provide additional protection for private keys, but users must still follow safe security practices.
Q3. Where can I download Ledger Wallet?
Start at Ledger.com and follow its official download instructions.
Q4. What happens if I lose my device?
A compatible replacement can generally restore access using your correctly backed-up recovery phrase. Keep the phrase secure.
Q5. Can Ledger support recover my recovery phrase?
Support cannot retrieve a lost phrase for you. Protect your offline backup carefully.
6. Final Recommendations
Use verified official resources, review every transaction, protect your recovery phrase, and never rush through wallet setup. These simple precautions help reduce the risk of phishing, unauthorized transfers, and permanent loss of access to your digital assets.
Security first. Verify every link before proceeding.