Ledger.com/Start - Official Ledger Wallet

Introduction

Ledger hardware wallets provide a secure solution for managing cryptocurrencies. By keeping your private keys offline, Ledger protects you from online threats including phishing, malware, and hacking attempts. This guide explains how to get started with Ledger, from setup to daily operations and security best practices.

1. Why Ledger Hardware Wallets

• Offline storage of private keys.
• Supports multiple cryptocurrencies.
• Works with Ledger Live and supported DApps.
• Regular firmware updates to enhance security.
• Recovery options using seed phrases.

2. Ledger Live: Installation

Ledger Live is the official application to interact with your hardware wallet. It allows sending, receiving, and tracking assets securely.

1. Go to Ledger.com/start.
2. Select your platform: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android.
3. Download Ledger Live installer.
4. Verify installer checksum for security.
5. Install and launch the application.

Tip: Always download Ledger Live from the official website to prevent security risks.

3. Connecting Your Ledger Device

Connect your Ledger device using the supplied USB cable. Avoid unknown hubs during setup. Ledger Live will detect the device and guide you through unlocking with a PIN.

• Use the device buttons to enter PIN.
• Never enter recovery phrase on computer.
• Follow on-device instructions for security confirmations.

Warning: Ledger Live never asks for recovery seed outside official restore flows. Treat any request as a scam.

4. Initial Setup & PIN

Set up a secure PIN during first use. It prevents unauthorized access to your device.

• PIN is entered physically on the device.
• Too many wrong attempts may wipe the device.
• Optional: set passphrase for hidden wallets.

5. Recovery Seed & Backup

The recovery seed is a set of 12 or 24 words that can restore your wallet. Record it offline and store securely.

• Never photograph or store digitally.
• Use supplied recovery card or metal backup.
• Consider geographically separated storage for high-value holdings.

Important: Anyone with your recovery seed can access your funds. Protect it carefully.

6. Adding Accounts

Once Ledger Live is ready, add cryptocurrency accounts:

• Select cryptocurrency in Ledger Live.
• Install required Ledger app on the device if prompted.
• Sync and view account balance.
• Repeat for multiple currencies.

7. Sending and Receiving Cryptocurrency

Receiving Funds:

Generate a receiving address in Ledger Live. Always verify that the address on your Ledger device matches the one displayed on Ledger Live.

Sending Funds:

Create a transaction in Ledger Live. Approve on-device, verifying recipient, amount, and fees physically.

Critical: Never approve a transaction if device screen shows different details than Ledger Live.

8. Small Test Transactions

Send a small amount first when transferring to new addresses to validate workflow and avoid mistakes.

9. Daily Security Practices

• Always confirm transaction details on the device.
• Keep Ledger Live and firmware up to date.
• Use trusted networks and computers.
• Verify addresses before sending.
• Maintain secure offline recovery backups.

10. Advanced Usage

• Use multisignature wallets for higher security.
• Enable passphrase for hidden wallets.
• Air-gapped signing to prevent online exposure.
• Interact securely with DeFi and DApps.

11. Troubleshooting

• Device not detected: check USB connection, restart Ledger Live.
• Forgot PIN: reset device and restore with recovery seed.
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