Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® - Secure Wallet Setup

This document guides you through the secure setup of a Ledger hardware wallet. It is written for beginners and power users alike, focusing on essential security principles, step-by-step setup, and best practices to keep your crypto assets safe over time.

Why hardware wallets matter

Security by design

A hardware wallet stores private keys in a secure element isolated from the internet. This reduces exposure to malware and online attacks. Think of the device as a locked safe for signing transactions — the private key never leaves the device.

When to use a hardware wallet

Use a hardware wallet whenever you are storing a non-trivial amount of value, interacting with DeFi protocols, or holding long-term positions. They are ideal for custody you control — not for frequent custodial trading accounts.

10-step secure setup (quick walkthrough)

1. Buy from an official source: Always purchase from the vendor or an authorized reseller. Do not accept opened or tampered packaging.
2. Unbox carefully: Check seals and confirm accessories match the manufacturer’s packing list.
3. Initialize offline: Prefer to initialize the device while disconnected from any computer network when possible.
4. Create a PIN: Choose a PIN you can remember but not easily guessable. Avoid using phone numbers or birthdays.
5. Write down the recovery phrase: Use the provided backup sheet — never take a digital photo or store it online.
6. Verify the recovery phrase: Most devices will ask you to confirm a subset of words — complete that check to confirm accuracy.
7. Install official apps only: Use the vendor’s official manager software to install coin apps. Validate downloads via checksums if available.
8. Enable additional protections: Set device passphrase or two-factor protections where supported, and enable firmware auto-updates only from official channels.
9. Test a small transaction: Send a small test amount to confirm receipt and proper transaction signing.
10. Store backup securely: Keep your recovery phrase in a safe, ideally in two geographically separate secure locations (metal backup recommended).

Best practices and ongoing maintenance

Device hygiene

Keep firmware up to date from official releases. Avoid connecting your wallet to unknown or untrusted systems. Periodically review the device’s transaction history and paired computers.

Backup strategy

A robust backup strategy uses redundancy and durability. Paper can fail; consider a metal backup to survive fire or water. Encrypt any stored secondary backup and limit access.

Phishing and social engineering

No legitimate support will ever ask for your recovery phrase. Treat unsolicited contact with caution. Bookmark official support pages and verify domain names carefully.

Troubleshooting & recovery

Lost or damaged device

If your device is lost or damaged, use your recovery phrase on a new Ledger device or compatible wallet to restore access. Only restore on a trusted device from official firmware.

Compromised recovery phrase

If you suspect your recovery phrase was exposed, immediately transfer funds to a new wallet with a fresh phrase and new device. Treat exposure as urgent.

Summary

A hardware wallet is a central element of sound crypto custody. Purchase official hardware, follow the 10-step setup, secure and split backups, and maintain device hygiene. With these steps you substantially reduce the risk of loss from theft, phishing, and device failure.