Why use a hardware wallet?
Self-custody ≠ friction
If you want true control over your crypto, hardware wallets keep your private keys offline — away from phishing sites, malware, and exchange hacks. Devices from Ledger (a widely used provider) combine a secure element chip and a dedicated OS to store keys safely while giving you a usable interface. Learn about Ledger's core products and app below.
Quick start — what you need
Buy only from official sources
Purchase Ledger devices directly from Ledger's official shop or an authorized reseller to avoid tampered devices. Avoid third-party marketplaces where integrity can’t be verified.
- Hardware wallet (e.g., Ledger Nano X / Nano S Plus / Gen5)
- Computer or smartphone for Ledger Wallet (Ledger Live)
- A safe place to store your recovery info (not online)
Step-by-step: Setup a Ledger device
1. Unbox & check
Inspect the packaging carefully — sealed Ledger boxes include tamper-evident features. If in doubt, contact Ledger Support.
2. Install Ledger Wallet (Ledger Live)
Download the official Ledger app for desktop or mobile from Ledger's site and follow the install prompts. (Always download from the official download page.)
3. Initialize device
Power on the device, create a PIN, and write down your recovery phrase exactly as shown. Ledger devices may now offer Recovery Key hardware options — read the official white paper if you consider using them.
4. Add accounts and apps
Use Ledger Wallet to add coin apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.) and create accounts. Ledger supports thousands of assets across the Ledger Live/Wallet ecosystem.
Security best practices (non-negotiable)
Never share your recovery phrase
Ledger, or any legitimate service, will never ask for your 24-word seed. Treat your recovery phrase like your last line of access — store it offline and never type it into websites or apps.
Beware of fake apps and phishing
DownloadLedger Wallet only from the official site. Attackers distribute counterfeit "Ledger Live" apps — always verify URLs and signatures.
Recommended protections
- Use a strong PIN and never write it down with your seed.
- Store seed in a physical safe or metal backup plate.
- Use vendor-recommended firmware updates via the official app.
- When connecting via Bluetooth, prefer a local, trusted network.
Recovering your account
Use your recovery phrase only on trusted Ledger devices
If you lose the device, restore accounts on a new Ledger using your recovery phrase or follow authorized Ledger Recovery Key procedures (see official white paper). Never enter your seed into unknown software.
Resources — official Ledger links (10)
Bookmark these official Ledger resources for setup, downloads, guides, and support:
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
1. Buying from unofficial sellers
Only buy from Ledger's official store or authorized partners; tampered devices have been used to steal funds.
2. Storing seed phrases online
Never photograph, email, or store your recovery phrase in cloud storage — if an attacker gets that phrase, they have full control.
3. Ignoring firmware updates
Firmware updates patch vulnerabilities and add new protections. Use the official Ledger app to update your device safely.
Advanced tips for power users
Use passphrases for extra accounts
Ledgers support optional passphrases (aka 25th word). This enables hidden wallets but adds complexity — keep separate, secure records if you use them.
Split storage & redundancy
Consider multiple backups (e.g., secure metal backup and a geographically separate safe) so one disaster won't lose access to your funds.
Sample command for verifying download hashes (advanced)
# On macOS / Linux: verify the downloaded Ledger Live installer (replace file & checksum)
shasum -a 256 Ledger-Live-Setup-1.XX.XX.dmg
# Compare result to the checksum published on the Ledger download page
Closing thoughts
Moving from custodial platforms to self-custody with a Ledger device is a meaningful step — it gives control but also responsibility. Follow the official guides above, keep your recovery phrase offline, and stay skeptical of unsolicited messages asking for seed words or PINs.