The world's most trusted hardware wallet. Secure your Bitcoin, Ethereum, and 5,500+ cryptocurrencies with military-grade security.
Manage your crypto portfolio securely
Setting up your Ledger device is straightforward and takes just a few minutes. Follow this comprehensive guide to secure your cryptocurrency investments properly. Each step is designed to maximize your security while maintaining ease of use for daily transactions and portfolio management.
Get the official Ledger Live application for your computer or mobile device
Initialize your Ledger hardware wallet and create a secure PIN code
Secure your 24-word recovery phrase - this is your backup to your entire wallet
Add support for the cryptocurrencies you want to store and manage
Ledger Live is the companion app that allows you to set up your Ledger device, install apps, and manage your cryptocurrency accounts. Available for Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android. Always download from the official Ledger website to ensure authenticity and security.
Join millions of users who trust Ledger to secure their digital assets. Get started with the world's most trusted hardware wallet today.
Ledger hardware wallets provide the highest level of security for cryptocurrency storage. Our multi-layered approach combines cutting-edge hardware security with proven cryptographic protocols to keep your digital assets safe from every type of threat.
CC EAL5+ certified secure element provides bank-level security for your private keys
The same technology used in credit cards and passports, ensuring your private keys never leave the device in an unencrypted form.
Private keys never touch the internet, keeping them safe from online threats
Your device generates and stores private keys completely offline, eliminating the risk of remote hacking attempts.
Transparent code that anyone can audit and verify for security vulnerabilities
Our applications and operating system are open source, allowing the global security community to review and improve them.
Multi-layer protection with PIN codes and physical confirmation required
Every transaction must be physically confirmed on your device, preventing unauthorized access even if your computer is compromised.
| Security Feature | Ledger Hardware | Software Wallet |
|---|---|---|
| Private Key Storage | ✓ Secure Element (Offline) | ✗ Device Memory (Online) |
| Malware Protection | ✓ Physical Isolation | ✗ Vulnerable to Attacks |
| Transaction Verification | ✓ Physical Confirmation | ✗ Software Only |
| Recovery from Device Loss | ✓ 24-Word Seed Phrase | △ Depends on Backup |
Join millions of users who have chosen Ledger for uncompromising security. Protect your cryptocurrency investments with the most trusted hardware wallet in the world.
Get answers to the most common questions about Ledger hardware wallets, setup process, and cryptocurrency security.
Ledger hardware wallets use a secure element chip (CC EAL5+ certified) that stores your private keys offline, completely isolated from internet-connected devices. Unlike software wallets that store keys on your computer or phone where they can be vulnerable to malware and hacking, Ledger devices keep your keys physically separated from any network. This 'cold storage' approach means even if your computer is compromised, your cryptocurrency remains secure. Additionally, all transactions must be physically confirmed on the device screen, preventing unauthorized transfers.
Yes, absolutely. Your funds are not actually stored on the Ledger device itself – they exist on the blockchain. The device only stores the private keys needed to access them. When you set up your Ledger, you receive a 24-word recovery phrase (also called a seed phrase). This phrase can restore access to all your cryptocurrencies on any compatible wallet, including a new Ledger device or other BIP39-compatible wallets. As long as you have your recovery phrase safely stored, you can always regain access to your funds, even if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged.
Ledger devices support over 5,500 different cryptocurrencies and tokens, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Cardano, Solana, and many others. However, due to limited storage space on the device, you can only install apps for a limited number of cryptocurrencies at once (typically 3-20 apps depending on the model and app sizes). You can easily install and uninstall apps as needed through Ledger Live without losing access to your funds. Removing an app doesn't delete your cryptocurrency – it just removes access until you reinstall the app.
You need an internet connection to view your balance, send transactions, and install apps through Ledger Live, but your private keys remain completely offline on the device. The Ledger device itself never connects to the internet – it only communicates with your computer or phone via USB or Bluetooth (Ledger Nano X). This design ensures your private keys are never exposed to online threats while still allowing you to manage your portfolio and make transactions when connected through the Ledger Live application.
The main differences are connectivity, storage, and battery. The Ledger Nano X features Bluetooth connectivity for wireless use with mobile devices, a rechargeable battery for portable use, and larger storage capacity (allowing more cryptocurrency apps to be installed simultaneously). The Ledger Nano S Plus is USB-only, doesn't have a battery (powered by your computer), but still offers substantial storage space for multiple apps at a lower price point. Both provide the same level of security and support the same cryptocurrencies.
Always purchase Ledger devices directly from the official Ledger website or authorized resellers listed on their site. Authentic devices come with tamper-evident packaging and genuine Ledger accessories. When you set up the device, Ledger Live will verify its authenticity through cryptographic attestation. Never buy from third-party marketplaces like eBay or Amazon, as counterfeit devices may steal your funds. Additionally, genuine Ledger devices will never come with pre-installed recovery phrases – if your device arrives with a seed phrase already written down, it's counterfeit and should not be used.
Our support team is here to help you with any questions about your Ledger device or cryptocurrency security.