Start with Ledger: Your step-by-step security roadmap

Ledger gives you a simple, private, and durable way to store cryptocurrency and digital assets. This page walks you through initial setup, best practices for safeguarding your recovery phrase, and the everyday flows — without jargon or fluff.

Why start with a hardware wallet?

Owning crypto means holding private keys. Unlike exchanges or apps that custody assets for you, a hardware wallet keeps those keys offline — isolated from remote attacks, phishing, and device compromise. When you set up Ledger correctly, you regain complete control of your funds and can sign transactions with confidence.

Quick start — 5 clear steps

Unbox & Inspect. Confirm the device packaging is sealed. Ledger devices ship with tamper-evident seals.
Initialize securely. Power on, create a new wallet, and write down the recovery phrase exactly in order. Never share it, never store it digitally.
Install Ledger Live. Use the official ledger.com/start link to download Ledger Live on your computer or phone — confirm the website URL in your browser.
Verify addresses. Whenever you receive funds, verify the receiving address on the device screen.
Back up & store. Keep your recovery phrase offline in two secure physical locations if possible (fireproof safe, safety deposit box).

Best practices and common questions

Never type your recovery phrase online. No legitimate support agent will ever ask for it. No cloud backups, screenshots, or photos.

Need to access accounts on multiple devices? Use your recovery phrase to restore to a second Ledger device or compatible software wallet — but keep the phrase private and restore only on trusted hardware.

What about firmware and app updates? Always update firmware through Ledger Live when your device is connected. Updates patch security improvements — verify prompts on the device display before approving.

Security mindset — simple habits for long-term safety

Treat your recovery phrase like the keys to a vault — offline and undisclosed.
Use a hardware wallet for high-value holdings; keep small amounts for convenience wallets.
Enable a passphrase (advanced) only if you understand the responsibility — it creates a hidden wallet derived from your recovery words.
Regularly verify receiving addresses on your Ledger device before accepting funds.

Short FAQ

Q: Can I recover funds if I lose my device?
A: Yes — restore using your recovery phrase on a new Ledger or compatible wallet. That’s why copying it accurately is crucial.

Q: Is Ledger only for crypto?
A: Ledger supports a wide range of digital assets, NFTs, and tokens across blockchains. Use Ledger Live to manage installed apps and accounts.