Getting Started with Ledger Wallet™
Ledger Wallet™ is your all-in-one crypto wallet app to confidently and conveniently manage all your digital assets from one secure place while keeping your private keys offline, far from hackers' reach.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of setting up and using your Ledger Wallet, from initial setup to advanced asset management.
Wallet Initialization
Setting up your Ledger Wallet for the first time is a critical process. Follow these steps carefully to ensure your wallet is properly secured.
Download Ledger Live
Download the official Ledger Live application from the official website. Verify the download using the provided checksums.
$ sha256sum ledger-live-desktop.AppImageConnect Your Device
Connect your Ledger hardware wallet to your computer using the provided USB cable. Ensure it's an authentic Ledger device.
Initialize as New Device
Select "Initialize as new device" and follow the on-screen prompts to generate your recovery phrase.
Write Down Your Recovery Phrase
Write down all 24 words in the correct order on the provided Recovery sheet. Double-check each word.
Confirm Your Recovery Phrase
The device will ask you to confirm your recovery phrase by selecting specific words. This ensures you've written it down correctly.
Security Best Practice
Store your recovery phrase in a secure physical location, such as a fireproof safe. Consider using metal backup solutions for added durability.
Restoring a Wallet
If you need to restore your wallet on a new device or after a reset, you can use your 24-word recovery phrase.
Select "Restore from Recovery Phrase"
When setting up your device, choose the option to restore from an existing recovery phrase rather than creating a new wallet.
Choose Recovery Phrase Length
Select whether you're restoring from a 12, 18, or 24-word recovery phrase. Most Ledger devices use 24 words.
Recovery phrase length: 24 wordsEnter Each Word
Using your device's buttons, carefully enter each word of your recovery phrase in the correct order. Take your time to avoid errors.
Set Your PIN
After successfully entering your recovery phrase, you'll need to set a new PIN code for your device.
Critical Warning
Never enter your recovery phrase on a computer or smartphone. Only enter it directly on your Ledger hardware device. Beware of phishing attempts.
Installing Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the companion app that allows you to manage your crypto assets, install apps, and update your device firmware.
Download for Your Operating System
Installation Steps
Download from Official Source
Only download Ledger Live from ledger.com. Verify the URL before downloading.
https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live/downloadRun the Installer
Open the downloaded file and follow the installation wizard. Accept the terms and conditions after reading them.
Launch and Set Up
Launch Ledger Live and follow the onboarding process. Choose whether to set up a new device or restore an existing one.
Install Apps
Install the apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage. Each blockchain requires its own app on your device.
Managing Assets
Once your wallet is set up, you can start managing your cryptocurrency assets securely.
Receiving Assets
- •Open the desired crypto app on your device
- •Click "Receive" in Ledger Live
- •Verify the address on your device screen
- •Copy and share the address
Sending Assets
- •Open the crypto app on your device
- •Click "Send" in Ledger Live
- •Enter recipient address and amount
- •Verify and confirm on your device
Transaction Verification
Always verify transaction details on your Ledger device screen before confirming. This includes:
Always Verify on Device
The only trustworthy information is what's displayed on your Ledger device screen. Never approve a transaction without verifying all details on your device first.
Understanding PIN Protection
Your PIN code is the first line of defense protecting your Ledger device from unauthorized access.
PIN Code Requirements
- ✓Must be 4 to 8 digits long
- ✓Should not be easily guessable (avoid 1234, 0000, etc.)
- ✓Required every time you connect your device
- ✓Device resets after 3 incorrect attempts
Setting Your PIN
Access Settings
Navigate to Settings on your Ledger device using the buttons.
Select Security
Choose "Security" then "Change PIN" from the menu options.
Enter Current PIN
You'll need to enter your current PIN to proceed with the change.
Set New PIN
Enter your new PIN twice to confirm. Make sure you remember it!
Security Features
Auto-Lock
Your device automatically locks after a period of inactivity, requiring your PIN to unlock.
Anti-Tamper
Device detects physical tampering attempts and erases sensitive data to protect your assets.
Reset Protection
After 3 failed PIN attempts, the device resets to factory settings, erasing all data.
Secure Element
Your PIN and private keys are stored in a certified secure chip, isolated from attacks.
Important Reminder
If you forget your PIN and your device resets, you can restore your wallet using your 24-word recovery phrase. This is why keeping your recovery phrase safe is critical.