How to Use Ledger Hardware Wallet

Step 1: Setup & Initialization

First, unbox your Ledger hardware wallet (e.g., Ledger Nano X, Nano S Plus, or Ledger Stax) purchased from the official Ledger website or an authorized reseller to avoid tampered devices.

1. Connect the Ledger device to your computer using the supplied USB or USB‑C cable.
2. Power it on and select your language using the device buttons.
3. Set a secure PIN (4–8 digits) on the device. This PIN is required each time you connect your device.
4. Your Ledger will display a 24‑word recovery phrase (seed). **Write down every word in order** on the supplied recovery sheet. Never share it or store it digitally.
5. Confirm the recovery phrase on the device by selecting words when prompted.
6. The wallet is now initialized and ready to be used with Ledger Live or other compatible apps.

Step 2: Integrate with Ledger Live & Install Apps

Ledger hardware wallets work in tandem with **Ledger Live**, the official companion app for desktop and mobile. It allows you to manage crypto securely, update firmware, install apps, and monitor your portfolio.

1. Download Ledger Live from the official site: ledger.com/ledger-live.
2. Install and open the app, then click “Get Started.”
3. Select your device type (Nano X, Nano S Plus, etc.) in Ledger Live.
4. Connect your Ledger device and enter your PIN when prompted.
5. In the “Manager” section, install the cryptocurrency apps you want (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.).
6. Add accounts in Ledger Live by selecting the crypto assets and confirming on the device.

Once setup, Ledger Live will interface with your device, but your private keys remain offline and can never be exposed to your computer or the internet.

Step 3: Send & Receive Cryptocurrency

After setup and app installation, you can securely **send and receive** crypto using your Ledger device as the signing authority.

1. To receive, open Ledger Live → Accounts → Receive. Select the right account & crypto asset.
2. The app will generate a receive address. Confirm that this exact address appears on your Ledger device screen.
3. Share the address with the sender. Monitor the incoming transaction in Ledger Live.
4. To send, choose Send in Ledger Live & select the account.
5. Enter recipient address, amount, and fee. Confirm details carefully.
6. Your Ledger device will prompt you to review and approve the transaction. Press both buttons to confirm.

The extra step of approving on-device helps protect you from malware or manipulated transactions.

Step 4: Security, Backup & Best Practices

Ledger hardware wallets provide robust security, but you must follow best practices to keep your crypto safe.

• Never share your 24‑word recovery phrase or private keys. Ledger or support will never ask for it.
• Store multiple copies of the recovery phrase offline in secure, separate locations (e.g., safe, vault).
• Regularly update your device firmware via Ledger Live to get the latest security improvements.
• Use a passphrase (25th word) feature for hidden wallets to add extra protection.
• Test your recovery seed by restoring on a new device before transferring large balances.
• Disconnect your ledger when not in use; do not leave it plugged into unfamiliar computers.
• Always verify addresses & amounts on the device display, not only on your computer screen.