Setting up your Ledger hardware wallet is a straightforward process that ensures the highest level of security for your cryptocurrencies. Follow these steps to get started.
Download and install Ledger Live, the official companion app for your Ledger device. Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Connect your Ledger device to your computer and follow the on-screen instructions to set up your wallet and generate your recovery phrase.
Write down your 24-word recovery phrase on the provided card and store it in a safe place. Never share it with anyone.
Use Ledger Live to install apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage with your Ledger device.
Create accounts for your cryptocurrencies in Ledger Live. Each account is protected by your Ledger device.
You're all set! Now you can securely send, receive, and manage your cryptocurrency assets with your Ledger device.
Ledger hardware wallets provide the highest level of security for your cryptocurrency assets. Unlike software wallets or exchange accounts, Ledger devices keep your private keys isolated from internet-connected devices, protecting them from malware, phishing attacks, and other online threats.
With Ledger, you maintain complete control over your private keys, which never leave your device. This means that even if your computer is compromised, your assets remain secure. All transactions must be physically confirmed on your Ledger device, adding an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access.
Ledger Live, the companion application, provides a user-friendly interface for managing your portfolio, checking market data, and installing apps for different cryptocurrencies. It also offers additional services like Ledger Stake, Ledger Swap, and Ledger Earn, allowing you to maximize the potential of your assets while maintaining security.
Your recovery phrase is the key to your cryptocurrency assets. Anyone with access to your recovery phrase can access your funds. Never share your recovery phrase with anyone, and store it securely offline.
Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase. Be aware of phishing attempts and only use official Ledger websites and applications.
Ledger devices incorporate several advanced security features to protect your assets:
Secure Element Chip: Ledger devices use a certified secure element chip, the same technology used in passports and credit cards, to provide military-grade security for your private keys.
PIN Protection: Your Ledger device is protected by a PIN code that you enter directly on the device. After three incorrect attempts, the device wipes itself to prevent brute-force attacks.
Passphrase Encryption: For additional security, you can enable passphrase encryption, which adds an extra layer of protection to your recovery phrase.
Firmware Verification: Ledger Live automatically verifies that your Ledger device is running genuine, up-to-date firmware, protecting you from malicious attacks.
Transaction Review: Every transaction is displayed on your Ledger device's screen for verification before being signed, preventing malware from altering transaction details.
These security measures work together to create a comprehensive protection system for your cryptocurrency assets, giving you peace of mind when managing your digital wealth.