This 1200-word guide walks you through setting up and using your Ledger Wallet — previously known as Ledger Live. Whether you’re new to hardware wallets or upgrading your crypto security, this guide provides a clear path to safely manage your digital assets.
Ledger Wallet is an ecosystem that combines a physical hardware device with a companion application to protect and manage your cryptocurrency. The hardware device stores your private keys securely offline, while the app — formerly called Ledger Live — lets you monitor and transact across multiple blockchains.
Using Ledger ensures that your crypto remains safe, even if your computer or smartphone is compromised. Every transaction must be verified directly on your Ledger device, preventing unauthorized access.
Traditional software wallets or exchanges keep private keys online, exposing them to hacking risks. Hardware wallets like Ledger operate offline. This means your private keys never touch the internet, and transactions must be confirmed physically on your device.
Ledger never stores your private keys or recovery phrases — only you have full control of your assets.
Upon receiving your Ledger Nano X, Nano S Plus, or Stax, ensure the packaging is sealed and untampered. Inside, you’ll find your device, USB cable, recovery sheets, and instructions.
Never buy a used or pre-initialized hardware wallet — it could be compromised.
Before connecting your device, download and install the official Ledger Wallet (formerly Ledger Live) app:
The Ledger Wallet app lets you manage, buy, sell, and stake your crypto safely. You’ll use it alongside your Ledger hardware device.
Connect your Ledger device to your computer or phone and follow these steps:
This recovery phrase is your only backup. If you lose your device, this phrase restores your crypto on a new one.
Never store your recovery phrase digitally or take photos of it. Store it offline in a safe, preferably in multiple copies and in fireproof or waterproof storage.
The safety of your funds depends entirely on keeping this phrase private and secure.
Ledger devices support hundreds of cryptocurrencies. Each asset requires its own blockchain app installed through the Ledger Wallet interface:
You can uninstall and reinstall apps anytime — your funds are tied to your recovery phrase, not the apps themselves.
To view balances and manage transactions, add accounts for each crypto:
You can create multiple accounts per asset — ideal for managing different portfolios or wallet types.
To receive crypto, click “Receive” in the Ledger Wallet app. Verify the address displayed on your device matches the app’s address before sharing it with anyone.
When sending funds, enter the recipient address and amount. Verify all details on your Ledger device screen and approve the transaction physically.
Always verify addresses on the device’s display — this is your ultimate security check.
Regular firmware updates keep your device secure and compatible with new crypto assets. You’ll be notified in the app when updates are available.
Ledger updates never erase your funds, as your assets remain tied to your recovery phrase.
Be cautious of phishing websites, fake support agents, or social media impersonators pretending to be Ledger.
For help with connectivity, setup, or transaction errors, visit the Ledger Support Center. It includes verified guides and community forums to resolve most issues.
If your device is lost or damaged, restore access by initializing a new Ledger device using your 24-word recovery phrase.
Official Ledger representatives will never request your recovery phrase — if someone does, it’s a scam.