Secure Your Crypto Assets
with Ledger
Get started with your Ledger hardware wallet and take control of your digital assets with industry-leading security.
Why Choose Ledger?
Industry-leading security with secure chip technology
Support for 5,500+ cryptocurrencies and tokens
Easy setup with Ledger Live desktop and mobile app
Your private keys never leave the device
Complete Guide to Setting Up Your Ledger Hardware Wallet
Follow our comprehensive setup process to secure your digital assets with confidence
What is a Ledger Hardware Wallet?
A Ledger hardware wallet is a physical device designed to store your cryptocurrency private keys offline, providing unparalleled security for your digital assets. Unlike software wallets that store keys on internet-connected devices, Ledger devices use a secure element chip—the same technology found in passports and credit cards—to isolate your private keys from potential online threats.
With support for over 5,500 cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and countless altcoins, Ledger wallets have become the gold standard for cryptocurrency security since 2014. Our devices feature a unique operating system called BOLOS (Blockchain Open Ledger Operating System) that ensures each application runs in isolation, preventing any potential security breaches from affecting your entire portfolio.
Why Choose Hardware Wallet Security?
The cryptocurrency landscape has witnessed numerous exchange hacks and software wallet vulnerabilities, resulting in billions of dollars in losses. Hardware wallets eliminate these risks by keeping your private keys completely offline. When you need to make a transaction, the device signs it internally and only transmits the signed transaction—never your private keys.
Ledger's security architecture includes multiple layers of protection: a secure element chip that's tamper-resistant, a custom operating system that verifies every operation, and a recovery phrase system that allows you to restore your wallet even if the device is lost or damaged. This combination provides institutional-grade security that's accessible to individual users worldwide.
Getting Started: Initial Setup Process
Setting up your Ledger device is straightforward and designed with security as the primary focus. Begin by visiting ledger.com/start to download the official Ledger Live application. This companion software manages your device, installs applications for different cryptocurrencies, and provides a user-friendly interface for managing your portfolio.
During the initial setup, your device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is the master key to your entire cryptocurrency portfolio and must be written down and stored securely offline. Never store this phrase digitally, share it with anyone, or take photos of it. Consider using a Cryptosteel backup solution for added physical protection against fire, water, and other environmental hazards.
Managing Your Digital Assets Safely
Once your device is configured, you can install cryptocurrency applications through Ledger Live. Each supported cryptocurrency has its own dedicated application that runs on your device, ensuring complete isolation between different assets. Popular applications include Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and many DeFi tokens that operate on various blockchain networks.
Ledger Live provides real-time portfolio tracking, transaction history, and market data integration. You can buy, sell, swap, and stake certain cryptocurrencies directly through the platform while maintaining full control of your private keys. The application also offers educational resources, market insights, and security recommendations to help you make informed decisions about your digital asset strategy.
Advanced Security Features and Best Practices
Ledger devices include advanced security features that go beyond basic private key storage. The secure element chip provides true random number generation for creating cryptographic keys, while the device's display allows you to verify transaction details directly on the hardware—protecting against malware that might modify transaction information on your computer.
For enhanced security, enable the optional passphrase feature, which adds a 25th word to your recovery phrase. This creates hidden wallets that remain invisible unless the correct passphrase is entered. Additionally, consider using multiple devices for different purposes: one for frequent trading and another for long-term storage of larger amounts.
Staying Safe in the Crypto Ecosystem
While Ledger provides excellent hardware security, users must remain vigilant about phishing attacks and social engineering attempts. Always download Ledger Live from the official website, verify that you're visiting authentic websites before connecting your device, and never enter your recovery phrase into any digital device or website.
Join the official Ledger community on Reddit and follow Ledger Support for the latest security updates, feature announcements, and educational content. Remember: Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase, and legitimate support will never request remote access to your device or computer.
Why 6 Million+ Users Trust Ledger
Experience uncompromising security with the world's most trusted hardware wallet solution
Bank-Grade Security
Secure element chip technology used in passports and credit cards protects your private keys offline.
Multi-Platform Support
Works seamlessly with Ledger Live on desktop and mobile, plus hundreds of third-party applications.
5,500+ Cryptocurrencies
Support for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of altcoins and tokens across multiple blockchains.
Full Control
Your private keys never leave the device. You own and control your cryptocurrency completely.
Trusted by Millions of Users Worldwide
See why cryptocurrency enthusiasts and professionals choose Ledger for their security needs
"After losing funds in an exchange hack, I knew I needed better security. My Ledger Nano X has given me complete peace of mind. The setup was surprisingly easy, and I love being able to manage my portfolio on both desktop and mobile."
"I've been using Ledger for 3 years now. The security features are unmatched - from the secure element chip to the recovery phrase system. Customer support is excellent, and the device has never failed me even with daily use."
"As someone heavily involved in DeFi, I need a wallet that supports multiple protocols. Ledger's extensive cryptocurrency support and integration with MetaMask makes it perfect for my needs. Highly recommended!"
"The build quality is exceptional, and Ledger Live makes portfolio management effortless. I particularly appreciate the ability to stake directly through the app while maintaining custody of my assets. Worth every penny."
Join millions of users protecting their crypto assets
Order Your Ledger TodayEverything You Need to Know
Get answers to the most common questions about Ledger hardware wallets
Setting up your Ledger is simple: 1) Download Ledger Live from the official website, 2) Connect your device and follow the on-screen instructions, 3) Write down your 24-word recovery phrase and store it securely offline, 4) Create a PIN code for your device, 5) Install cryptocurrency apps through Ledger Live. The entire process takes about 10-15 minutes and ensures your crypto is stored securely offline.
Don't panic! Your crypto is safe as long as you have your 24-word recovery phrase. Simply purchase a new Ledger device, set it up, and choose 'Restore from recovery phrase' during setup. Enter your 24 words in the exact order, and you'll regain access to all your accounts. This is why keeping your recovery phrase secure and offline is crucial - it's your backup to your entire crypto portfolio.
Yes! Ledger devices work with hundreds of third-party applications beyond Ledger Live. You can use MetaMask for DeFi, Electrum for Bitcoin, MyEtherWallet for Ethereum, and many others. The hardware wallet provides security while giving you the freedom to use your preferred wallet interface. Always ensure you're using official, verified applications and never enter your recovery phrase into any software.
Ledger hardware wallets provide superior security through offline private key storage using a certified secure element chip (CC EAL5+). Unlike software wallets that store keys on internet-connected devices, your private keys never leave the Ledger device. Even if your computer is compromised with malware, your funds remain safe because transactions are signed within the secure device and verified on its screen.
Ledger supports over 5,500 cryptocurrencies and tokens, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, XRP, Cardano, Polkadot, Solana, and thousands of ERC-20, BEP-20, and other blockchain tokens. New cryptocurrencies are regularly added. You can check the complete list on the Ledger website, and most major cryptocurrencies and DeFi tokens are supported through direct apps or compatible wallet interfaces.
For maximum security, always purchase directly from the official Ledger website (ledger.com) or authorized retailers listed on their website. This ensures you receive a genuine device that hasn't been tampered with. Avoid buying from unknown sellers on marketplaces like eBay or Amazon unless they're verified Ledger partners. When you receive your device, verify it's genuine using Ledger's authenticity check process.
Still have questions? Our support team is here to help.
Disclaimer: Cryptocurrency investments are subject to high market risk and volatility. Ledger hardware wallets provide security for digital asset storage but do not guarantee protection against market losses or investment risks. Please ensure you understand the technology and associated risks before using any hardware wallet or investing in cryptocurrencies.