We are all aware of the fact that software wallets are often a more convenient, practical and cost-effective solution compared to their hardware counterparts. This reality is undeniable and easily confirmed. Nevertheless, it is worth noting that hardware wallets, despite their cost, usually stand out with a higher level of security. This is why many people prefer to choose Ledger as their new wallet.
In this article, we will walk you through how to pair your new Ledger with your MetaMask account by following a few simple and easy steps. We’ll walk you through the process, where security and convenience meet on the way to carefree use of your cryptocurrency assets.
Table of Contents
What is Ledger?
Ledger Wallet is one of the leading hardware wallets in the cryptocurrency industry. Developed by the renowned Paris-based company Ledger, this wallet provides a secure and convenient solution for storing and managing cryptocurrencies using hardware devices.
Founded in 2014 by an experienced team of eight distinguished professionals with a background in embedded security, cryptocurrency and entrepreneurship, Ledger is an expert in creating robust solutions for blockchain applications.
Ledger Wallet’s innovative and easy-to-use design sets it apart from its competitors, providing a user-friendly experience even for those new to the world of cryptocurrencies. Ledger Wallet’s user-friendly interface and simple setup process make it accessible to everyone, eliminating the need for in-depth technical knowledge.
Ledger Wallet provides a comprehensive solution to support various cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana and more.
What is MetaMask Wallet?
MetaMask is one of the leading and widely used software wallets in the cryptocurrency market. It is available as a dedicated app for iOS and Android, and also serves as a web extension compatible with the following browsers: Chrome, Brave, Edge, Opera and Firefox.
Since its launch in 2016, MetaMask’s popularity has grown rapidly, attracting over 30 million monthly active users by 2024. Key success factors include robust security features and a user-friendly interface, making MetaMask the preferred choice for individuals looking for a reliable online cryptocurrency wallet.
Acting as a wallet with its own storage, MetaMask gives full control to the user over the digital assets stored in the wallet. It also supports a variety of cryptocurrencies, including all ERC-20 tokens.
Why connect Ledger wallet to MetaMask wallet?
- First of all, it allows you to use your Ledger wallet with dApps and MetaMask services. To do this, you need to install the MetaMask browser extension and the Ledger Live application.
- Second, it increases security: your private keys are stored on your Ledger device, which is offline, making it much more secure than storing them on your computer or in a cloud service.
- Third, it enhances usability: MetaMask provides a user-friendly interface for interacting with dApps and services.
- Last but not least, access to a wider range of dApps and services. MetaMask supports a wider range of dApps and services than Ledger Live.
Setting up MetaMask account to connect to Ledger
Before you can connect your Ledger device to MetaMask, you need to create a MetaMask account/wallet. Let’s go through the entire process of connecting your Ledger device to MetaMask, starting with setting up a new MetaMask account.
In this example, we will use the MetaMask extension for the web browser, but it is worth noting that you can also use the mobile app, as the process is similar.
Step 1. Access MetaMask or install the mobile app.
To start using MetaMask, simply visit the official MetaMask website and look for the “Download” button.
Clicking on it will redirect you to the browser extension page where you can proceed to download the wallet.
Confirm the download.
Step 2. Create a new wallet in MetaMask.
After MetaMask has been successfully downloaded, let’s start creating a new account. Open the MetaMask extension or application.
Choose a strong password to increase the security of your account. It is important to use a strong password to ensure that your digital assets are well protected.
Secure your wallet to ensure that your funds are safe. This includes using a strong password, as well as backing up your wallet regularly. Consider a few steps for added security:
- Strength Password: Use a unique and complex password consisting of letters, numbers, and special characters.
- Backup: Make regular backups of your wallet. Keep them in a safe place, away from an internet connection.
- Recovery feature: Memorize or save your recovery key (seed phrase). This set of words allows you to restore access to your wallet if you lose your password or device.
- Two Factor Authentication (2FA): If possible, enable 2FA for an additional layer of security.
Following these measures will help you maximize the protection of your wallet and keep your cryptocurrency funds safe.
Раскройте секретную фразу восстановления и сохраните ее в безопасном месте, доступном только вам. Лучше всего запишите ее на бумажный носитель.
Затем вам нужно будет проверить секретную фразу восстановления, заполнив некоторые слова в предоставленных пробелах.
Connect Ledger hardware wallet to your MetaMask account
Now let’s begin the process of connecting your Ledger device to MetaMask, ensuring seamless transactions while keeping your keys fully autonomous.
In this step-by-step guide, we will be using the MetaMask web extension. It is worth noting that a similar process can be performed using the MetaMask mobile app. Please follow the instructions below:
Step 1. Connect to your MetaMask account.
The first step to access your MetaMask account is to connect to it. This can be accomplished in two ways: either by entering your password or by importing it using a secret recovery phrase (seed phrase).
To log into your MetaMask wallet, click on the MetaMask extension, enter your password and click “Unlock”. Your wallet will then be successfully unlocked and you will see your profile.
Step 2: Connect the Ledger physical device to your computer/mobile device using a USB cable.
Connect your Ledger device to your computer using a USB cable to establish a secure and direct connection between the hardware wallet and your computer.
This physical connection provides a secure and encrypted channel for your transactions and interactions with your Ledger device. Make sure your Ledger device is powered on and unlocked during the connection process. This is an important step to ensure the security of your cryptocurrency transactions.
Step 3. Go to the hardware wallet connection page.
- The next step involves going to the MetaMask hardware wallet connection page.
- To do this, click the account selection menu at the top of the MetaMask wallet interface.
- Locate and click “Add an account or hardware wallet” from the drop-down menu. After that, click “Add Hardware Wallet” in the new menu that appears.
After that, specify that you want to use Ledger hardware wallet and click “Continue” button. MetaMask will search for an HID device to establish a connection (DO NOT FORGET: your Ledger device must be connected to your device: PC or smartphone).
Having detected your wallet, MetaMask will prompt you to select a Ledger account to connect to MetaMask. Select the desired Ledger account and continue the connection process or create a new Ledger Live account if you have not already done so.
Step 5: Final steps to ensure smooth operation
From the screen on your Ledger device, follow these steps:
- Tap “Ethereum App.”
- Then navigate to “Settings”.
- Enable the “Blind Signature” option (please consciously consider the security risks associated with blind signatures).
This step is critical for the process to work properly. Make sure you follow the instructions on the display and take all necessary steps to ensure the safety of your Ledger device.
In the MetaMask window, perform the following steps:
- Click the account logo.
- Scroll down to Settings and select this section.
- Then select “Advanced Settings.”
- Scroll further and activate the “WebHID” option.
These steps are necessary for MetaMask to successfully communicate with your Ledger device. Make sure to follow the instructions exactly to ensure proper setup and smooth operation.
By following these steps, you will successfully enable visibility of your Ledger wallet balance in the MetaMask extension. In addition, you will be able to conduct transactions in all blockchain applications compatible with MetaMask.
To complete transactions, connect your Ledger wallet to your device, open Ledger Live, confirm and sign transactions if necessary. This adds an extra layer of security and ensures transactions are confirmed using your hardware wallet.
