What is Ledger?

Ledger is a leading manufacturer of hardware wallets designed to securely store cryptocurrency offline. Unlike software wallets that remain connected to the internet, Ledger devices provide "cold storage" protection, keeping your private keys isolated from potential online threats and hackers.

Setting Up Your First Hardware Wallet

Begin by visiting ledger.com/start and downloading Ledger Live, the official companion app. Connect your Ledger device via USB and follow the on-screen instructions to initialize your wallet. During setup, you'll create a PIN code and receive a 24-word recovery phrase. Write down this recovery phrase on the provided recovery sheet and store it in a secure location—this is your backup if the device is lost or damaged.

Security Best Practices

Never share your recovery phrase with anyone or store it digitally. Always verify receiving addresses on your Ledger device screen before confirming transactions. Keep your device firmware updated through Ledger Live, and only purchase Ledger devices directly from the official website or authorized retailers to avoid tampered devices.

Next Steps

Once your Ledger wallet is configured, install apps for your preferred cryptocurrencies through Ledger Live. Start with small test transactions to familiarize yourself with the process before transferring larger amounts. Consider enabling additional security features like passphrase protection for enhanced security of your digital assets.