Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Ledger hardware wallets, security, setup, and managing your crypto assets.
Your crypto is safe! As long as you have your 24-word recovery phrase, you can restore your private keys and access your funds on a new Ledger device or another compatible wallet. The recovery phrase is the ultimate backup for your assets. This is why it's critically important to store your recovery phrase securely and never share it with anyone or store it digitally.
Ledger supports over 5,500 coins and tokens via the Ledger Live app and third-party wallet integrations. While it supports the vast majority of popular assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and all ERC-20 tokens, it's always a good idea to check the official Ledger website for a specific coin's compatibility before purchasing.
Security. Software wallets (hot wallets) store your private keys on an internet-connected device, making them vulnerable to malware, viruses, and phishing attacks. A Ledger hardware wallet (cold wallet) keeps your keys completely offline. The small investment in a hardware wallet is a low price to pay for the robust protection of your potentially much larger crypto portfolio.
Yes. The Bluetooth connection is only used for transporting public data. The critical operations, like signing a transaction, still happen inside the device's Secure Element. Your private keys never leave the device, and all transactions must be physically confirmed on the device's screen. The connection is also encrypted end-to-end for added security.
Always buy your Ledger device directly from the official Ledger website or an authorized reseller. This ensures you receive a genuine, untampered device. Purchasing from third-party marketplaces like eBay or unauthorized sellers poses a significant security risk, as the device could be compromised before you receive it.
No, the device itself is designed to be highly resistant to malware. It operates on a custom, secure operating system (BOLOS) and all operations are isolated within the Secure Element chip. Even if your computer is infected, the hardware wallet remains a safe haven for your private keys.
When you keep crypto on an exchange, you don't actually hold the private keys–the exchange does. You are trusting them to secure your funds. This is known as a custodial solution. A Ledger is non-custodial; it gives you exclusive control over your private keys. The saying "not your keys, not your coins" perfectly illustrates this crucial difference.
It depends on your risk tolerance. Even a small amount of crypto today could be worth a significant amount in the future. The cost of a Ledger is a one-time security investment. If the value of your crypto holdings exceeds the price of a hardware wallet, or if you plan to invest more in the future, getting a Ledger is a very wise decision.