The essential guide to setting up your device and securing your digital future.
Your journey begins with three simple steps. First, ensure your device is authentic; check for any signs of tampering on the packaging. Second, you must download the official **Ledger Live app**. This application is your central hub for managing your device, installing crypto apps, and tracking your portfolio. Ledger Live is the only official application that should interact with your hardware wallet. Avoid all third-party apps until you are fully proficient, and always download the software directly from Ledger's official website—never from an untrusted source or search engine advertisement.
Once installed, connect your Ledger device via USB or Bluetooth. The app will prompt you to set a strong **PIN code** on the device itself. This PIN protects against physical theft. It's the first security layer, ensuring no one can access the device's main menu without authorization. Choose a unique PIN and confirm it carefully, as you will need it every time you use the Ledger.
This is the single most important element of your entire crypto security setup. The Ledger device will generate a unique sequence of **24 English words**. This phrase is your master key—it is the only backup that can restore access to your funds if your physical Ledger device is lost, stolen, or damaged. This phrase gives total control over your crypto to anyone who possesses it.
You must confirm the phrase on your physical device buttons after recording it. This confirmation process ensures you transcribed it correctly before transferring any funds. This step validates your sole ability to recover your assets.
After successful setup and securing your recovery phrase, use Ledger Live to install the necessary blockchain apps (like Bitcoin or Ethereum) onto your Ledger device. Once the apps are installed, you can create accounts within Ledger Live. These accounts will generate the public receiving addresses you share to move crypto from exchanges or other wallets. Always verify the receiving address displayed in Ledger Live against the address shown on your physical Ledger screen before confirming the transaction. This final check prevents sophisticated "man-in-the-middle" attacks where malware attempts to swap the address. Once verified and confirmed on your device, your transfer is safe, and your crypto is secured under the protection of your hardware wallet. You are now in full control.