Ledger Wallet is a secure hardware wallet built to protect your private keys and digital assets. Designed for self-custody, Ledger pairs industry-grade hardware security with the Ledger Live application so you can safely access DeFi, Web3 dApps, NFTs and more.
Why a Hardware Wallet?
- Offline private keys: Keys are stored in the device’s secure element and never exposed to the internet.
- Transaction verification: Every action (send, swap, sign) must be confirmed on the physical device.
- Recovery & portability: You can restore accounts from your 24-word recovery phrase if the device is lost.
Core Use Cases
Getting Started — Quick Setup
- Purchase & verify: Buy a Ledger device only from the official Ledger store to avoid tampered devices.
- Unbox & connect: Connect your Ledger (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax) to a computer or mobile device using the supplied cable or Bluetooth (Nano X).
- Initialize on device: Follow on-screen instructions to choose a PIN and generate your 24-word recovery phrase.
- Record recovery phrase: Write your 24 words on the recovery sheet provided. Store it offline and secure — never share it or enter it on a website.
- Install Ledger Live: Download Ledger Live from the official page and install it on your desktop or mobile device: ledger.com/ledger-live.
- Add accounts: Use Ledger Live to install blockchain apps on your device and add accounts (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.).
If you prefer a step-by-step visual guide, start here: ledger.com/start.
Using Ledger for DeFi & Web3 — Security Principles
When interacting with DeFi protocols and Web3 dApps, Ledger provides hardware-based signatures so you can safely approve actions while keeping your keys offline. Follow these principles for safer Web3 activity:
- Always verify on-device: Confirm every signature, allowance, and transaction on the Ledger screen. Never confirm unseen or suspicious transactions.
- Limit allowances: Approve minimal token allowances when a dApp requests permission. Revoke unused approvals regularly.
- Use official integrations: Prefer Ledger Live, Ledger-approved bridges, or well-audited wallet connectors (e.g., Ledger + a verified Web3 gateway) rather than unknown browser extensions.
- Phishing awareness: Never enter your recovery phrase into any website or extension. Validate domains and bookmarks before connecting your device.
- Transaction context: Check recipient address, chain, and amounts on the device before confirming. If details don’t match the dApp, do not approve.
Ledger does not ask for your recovery phrase — support will never request it.
Advanced Setup — Best Practices
- Firmware & app updates: Keep device firmware and Ledger Live up to date — updates include security patches and new features.
- Use a passphrase (optional): For extra security, enable an additional passphrase (25th word) to create hidden wallets — only for advanced users who understand the risks and backup procedures.
- Split backups: Consider secure physical distribution or a safe deposit box for your recovery phrase (not digital copies).
- Test restores: Periodically verify you can restore a non-funded wallet on a spare device to confirm your recovery backup is accurate.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you lose or break the device, your crypto is recoverable using your 24-word recovery phrase on another Ledger device or compatible wallet. Treat the phrase as the ultimate key — keep it offline and private.
Yes. Ledger can be used with many DEXs via Ledger Live or wallet connectors (Web3 wallets that support Ledger). Always review transactions on the device and limit token approvals.
Ledger integrates with a variety of Web3 interfaces and wallets that support hardware wallets. Use only reputable dApps, verify domains, and confirm signatures on your device before granting permissions.
Ledger Live is the companion app for account management, portfolio tracking, and partner services. The Ledger device stores your private keys and performs cryptographic signing. Both work together — Ledger Live alone cannot sign transactions without the hardware device.
No. Your recovery phrase must only be written down on the provided sheet and entered on a secure device when restoring. Never type or upload it to websites, apps, or cloud storage.
While Ledger devices implement high-grade hardware security (Secure Element), no device is absolutely immune. Security is a layered practice: keep firmware updated, verify transactions on-device, protect backups, and avoid phishing vectors.
Official Resources & Support
Use only official Ledger links and support channels for downloads, purchases, and troubleshooting:
- Ledger official website
- Ledger Live — download & info
- Start: official setup guide
- Official Ledger store
- Ledger Support Center
Ready to secure your assets? Buy an Official Ledger Device