Get Started With Ledger: Your Secure Gateway to Web3

Welcome to your starting point for digital asset security. Whether you’ve just unboxed your new Ledger device or you’re exploring safer ways to manage your crypto, this guide walks you through everything you need to begin with confidence. Ledger combines industry-leading hardware security with intuitive software, allowing you to manage, grow, and protect your digital assets—all in one place.

Why Start With Ledger?

In the rapidly expanding world of crypto and Web3, security is no longer optional—it’s essential. Online exchanges and software wallets offer convenience, but they also expose your private keys to potential risks such as hacking, malware, and account breaches. Ledger protects your digital wealth by storing your private keys inside a certified secure chip, isolating them from your computer and the internet.

With Ledger, you own your assets—not an exchange, not an app, not anyone else. Your keys stay offline, under your complete control.

Unboxing Your Ledger Device

When you open your Ledger package, you’ll find:

• Your Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S Plus or Nano X)
• A USB cable
• Recovery phrase sheets
• A quick start guide

Inspect the box to ensure it’s sealed and untampered. Ledger devices never arrive with a pre-written recovery phrase; if one is provided, do not use the device.

Step 1: Download Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official companion app used to set up, manage, and grow your crypto securely. It is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.

Download Ledger Live From the Official Source

To ensure your safety:

• Download Ledger Live only from Ledger’s official website or the Apple/Google app stores.
• Avoid third-party links or “modified” versions of the app.

Ledger Live is your central hub for portfolio tracking, device updates, crypto purchasing, staking, and secure account management.

Step 2: Set Up Your Ledger Device

Once Ledger Live is installed, plug your device into your computer or connect via Bluetooth (Nano X only). Ledger Live will guide you through an on-screen setup process.

Create a New Wallet

During setup, your Ledger device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase, the master key to your crypto accounts.

Important rules for your recovery phrase:

• Write the words down on the provided sheets—do not digitize them.
• Never take photos or store them in cloud services.
• Never share your phrase with anyone, not even Ledger support.
• Store it in a private, secure place.

Your recovery phrase can restore your wallet on any compatible Ledger device if yours is lost or damaged.

Step 3: Secure Your PIN

After generating your recovery phrase, your device will ask you to set a PIN. Choose a strong code that you can remember and keep private. Anyone with your PIN and device can access your wallet, so treat it like a bank card PIN—strictly personal and protected.

Step 4: Install Crypto Apps

Ledger devices manage assets through individual crypto apps installed on the device. Ledger Live will prompt you to install apps based on the coins or tokens you want to hold.

Every app enables you to create the corresponding account in Ledger Live. For example:

• Bitcoin App → Bitcoin account
• Ethereum App → Ethereum account (plus access to thousands of ERC-20 tokens)
• Solana App → SOL and Solana-based tokens

You can uninstall apps anytime without affecting your stored assets. Your crypto always remains tied to your recovery phrase—not the apps themselves.

Step 5: Add Accounts and Transfer Crypto

Once your crypto apps are installed, create accounts within Ledger Live. This allows you to send, receive, and track your holdings.

Receiving Crypto

To receive funds:

1. Select an account in Ledger Live.
2. Click “Receive.”
3. Confirm the address displayed in Ledger Live matches the one on your Ledger device screen.
4. Share the address only after confirming the match.

This extra verification step protects you from address-swapping malware.

Sending Crypto

When sending funds:

1. Enter the recipient address and amount.
2. Review the details in Ledger Live.
3. Confirm the transaction directly on your Ledger device.

No transaction leaves your wallet without physical confirmation.

Step 6: Explore Ledger’s Web3 Capabilities

Ledger is not just a hardware wallet—it’s your secure gateway to the expanding world of Web3.

With Ledger Live and Ledger Extension, you can safely interact with:

• DeFi platforms
• NFT marketplaces
• Decentralized exchanges
• Blockchain games
• Token swaps and staking services

Ledger Extension

Ledger’s browser extension adds a secure layer when using Web3 sites. It ensures that:

• You approve actions on your hardware wallet
• Malicious websites cannot access your keys
• The correct contract interactions are displayed before signing

Your private keys never leave the secure element of your Ledger device.

Step 7: Keep Your Device Updated

Security evolves constantly. Ledger regularly releases firmware updates to strengthen protection, enhance performance, and support more crypto assets.

Ledger Live will notify you when updates are available. Install them promptly to ensure optimal security.

Best Practices for Long-Term Safety

To protect your digital wealth for the long run:

1. Protect Your Recovery Phrase

Consider storing your recovery phrase in a durable metal backup to protect against fire, water, and physical decay.

2. Use a Dedicated Computer or Network

For sensitive crypto transactions, consider operating on a clean device with minimal installed programs or use a trusted private network.

3. Stay Alert for Scams

Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase, PIN, or device pairing codes. Scam attempts often imitate official messages—always check the source.

4. Verify Every Operation

Before signing, review transaction details on your Ledger device screen. That display is tamper-proof and accurate.

Manage, Grow, and Secure Your Assets With Confidence

Ledger empowers you with a security-first approach to digital ownership. With your device and Ledger Live working together, you can buy crypto, stake assets, explore NFTs, and interact with Web3—all while maintaining full control of your private keys.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced investor, Ledger helps you navigate the world of digital assets with trust, clarity, and peace of mind.