Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started

A clear, presentation-style guide to help new users set up a Ledger hardware wallet and adopt secure routines. This page uses semantic headings (H1–H5), step-by-step instructions, colorful official links, and an accessible structure suitable for printing or presenting.

Introduction

Welcome to your quick-start presentation for Ledger. This document is written as a polished single-page guide (suitable for a slide or handout) and covers why hardware wallets matter, how to set up your device safely, daily usage tips, recovery safety, and recommended next steps. Use the headings to jump between main topics or print this page as a one-sheet for training sessions.

Why use a hardware wallet?

Protection from online threats

Hardware wallets keep private keys offline, preventing common attacks that target software wallets on computers and phones. When paired with best practices — unique passphrases, recovery backups, and cautious linking to external apps — they are one of the strongest personal security tools available.

Key benefits

Offline key storage (Air-gapped security)
PIN and optional passphrase protection
Compatibility with many crypto apps and wallets
Open upgrade path via official firmware updates

Audience

This guide is aimed at individuals who own cryptocurrency or institutions running small-key custody. It assumes basic familiarity with installing apps on a desktop or mobile device.

Getting started — Setup checklist

Before you begin

Purchase only from official channels (see links above).
Have a secure, private space to write your recovery phrase.
Use an up-to-date computer or smartphone to run Ledger Live.

Initial steps

Power on the Ledger device and follow on-screen prompts.
Create a PIN on the device (memorize, do not store electronically).
Write the recovery phrase on the supplied recovery sheet — never on a screen or cloud document.

Using Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official management app. Download it from the official site and check the fingerprint checksums if you're especially security-conscious. Ledger Live helps you install coin apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum), check balances, and perform updates.

Quick tips

Always update firmware and apps in Ledger Live when prompted.
Confirm transaction details on-device, not only on your computer screen.
Use passphrase feature only if you understand its implications—loss of passphrase = loss of access.

Daily usage & transaction flow

Typical transaction flow

Open Ledger Live or connected third-party wallet (e.g., MetaMask).
Initiate a send from the wallet; the unsigned transaction appears on your computer.
Confirm the transaction details on the Ledger device screen and approve to sign.
Wallet broadcasts the signed transaction to the network.

Safety checkpoints

Verify recipient address visually on the device when available.
Beware of clipboard malware — paste addresses carefully and confirm length/prefix.
Use small test transactions for new addresses or large-value transfers.

Support resources

If you encounter issues, refer to the linked Ledger Support or the Ledger Academy for walkthroughs.

Recovery phrase & backup

What it is

The recovery phrase (usually 24 words) is the master seed for all your keys. If your device is lost or damaged, anyone with this phrase can recreate your accounts. Protect it like a high-value physical key.

Best practices

Write it on the supplied recovery sheet or use an engraved steel backup solution.
Store copies in geographically separated secure locations (safe deposit box, home safe).
Never photograph, email, or store the phrase on cloud services.

What NOT to do

Do not share your recovery phrase with anyone claiming to be support. Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase. If someone asks, it is a scam.

Advanced features & recommended next steps

Passphrase (optional)

Passphrases add an extra layer that creates a hidden wallet. This is powerful but if you forget it, funds are irrecoverable. Use only if you understand the trade-offs.

Multi-account and app management

Use Ledger Live to manage multiple accounts across many blockchains. Install only official apps for the coins you use and remove unused apps to reduce attack surface.

Institutional considerations

For teams or businesses, pair ledger devices with proven custody workflows, policy documents, and a secure key governance process. Consider professional-grade solutions if handling large funds.