Investing in cryptocurrencies requires focusing on two critical priorities: security and true ownership of your digital assets. Since crypto assets exist as data on a blockchain—without any physical form—it's essential to safeguard the private keys that grant access to them. A hardware wallet like those from Ledger provides a high level of security and full control over your holdings.
The Ledger Nano hardware wallet, combined with the Ledger Live application, helps protect your private keys and minimize risk. Its core design ensures that your private keys never leave the secure hardware—even when connected to a smartphone or computer.
Why Ledger Nano Offers Strong Security: Trust Through Verification
Ledger helped pioneer hardware wallet technology, bringing unprecedented security to cryptocurrency storage. Every Nano device includes a certified chip, known as a Secure Element (SE), specifically engineered to resist sophisticated attacks. These tamper-resistant chips use encryption similar to what protects passports and SIM cards.
Unlike generic chips found in everyday electronics, the Secure Element ensures your private keys remain isolated in a highly secure environment. Additionally, Ledger hardware wallets operate on a custom-built operating system named BOLOS, designed exclusively for protecting crypto assets.
For further validation, Ledger Nano wallets were the first—and remain among the few—to receive certification from ANSSI, France’s independent cybersecurity agency.
How to Keep Your Device Secure: The 24-Word Recovery Phrase
Each Ledger hardware wallet uses a two-step authentication process: a PIN code and a recovery phrase.
Your PIN Code
When setting up a new Ledger device, you choose a PIN code. This code unlocks your device, much like a smartphone passcode. Be sure to pick a unique code and avoid sharing it.
Your 24-Word Recovery Phrase
Your recovery phrase—also referred to as a seed phrase or mnemonic—is your private key’s only backup. It consists of 24 words generated randomly during the device initialization.
This phrase is directly tied to your private keys and funds. Even if you switch devices, the recovery phrase remains the same. If someone else obtains it, they can access your assets.
You’ll only see this phrase once: during the initial setup. It’s your responsibility to write down the words accurately and store them safely. Each Ledger device comes with a recovery sheet for this purpose.
👉 Explore best practices for securing your recovery phrase
Remember: never share your recovery phrase and store it securely offline. If you lose your device or forget your PIN, the 24-word phrase lets you regain access to your funds through another compatible wallet.
How Much Bitcoin Can a Ledger Hardware Wallet Store?
It’s important to clarify: a hardware wallet doesn’t actually "store"比特币. Bitcoin exists on the blockchain. What the wallet stores are the private keys that prove ownership and allow you to access and transfer your bitcoin.
Number of Private Keys
Ledger devices like the Nano S and Nano X can hold applications for multiple cryptocurrencies. The Nano X, with its larger memory, can support up to 100 different crypto apps simultaneously. Each app can manage an unlimited number of addresses and private keys.
Managing Bitcoin in Practice
Users can manage hundreds—or even thousands—of Bitcoin addresses through a single Ledger device. Each address can hold any amount of bitcoin. Therefore, there’s no practical limit to the total amount of bitcoin you can control with one Ledger hardware wallet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to connect my Ledger wallet to a computer?
Yes. Your private keys never leave the hardware wallet, even when connected. The device requires physical confirmation for transactions, adding an extra layer of security.
What happens if I lose my Ledger device?
As long as you have your 24-word recovery phrase, you can restore your wallet on a new device and regain access to all your funds.
Can Ledger wallets be hacked?
Ledger devices use secure elements and custom OSes to resist hacking. The main risk involves phishing attacks or users accidentally exposing their recovery phrases.
How many cryptocurrencies can I store on a Ledger?
You can store all supported cryptocurrencies—including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and many altcoins—on a single device, limited only by the device’s storage for apps.
Do I need to use the Ledger Live software?
While Ledger Live offers a user-friendly interface, you can also integrate your Ledger with other compatible wallets like MetaMask for certain functionalities.
Is a recovery phrase really necessary?
Yes. It’s your only backup. Without it, losing your device or forgetting your PIN means permanent loss of access to your funds.
Conclusion
Ledger hardware wallets are widely considered among the most secure options for storing cryptocurrency. They provide robust protections against cyber attacks, physical theft, and hardware failure. Since bitcoin itself remains on the blockchain, a Ledger device can manage virtually unlimited amounts of bitcoin by holding the corresponding private keys.
Whether for individual or organizational use, Ledger offers a combination of security, control, and ease of use for managing digital assets.