Ethereum: How to obtain the public master key of a Ledger wallet?

Extracting the Public Master Key from the Ledger Nano S: A Guide

The Ledger Nano S is a popular hardware wallet for cryptocurrency that offers unparalleled security for storing and managing digital assets. However, understanding how to extract the public master key of your Ledger wallet is essential for using the HD key derivation in external processes, such as implementing smart contracts or interacting with decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols.

Why is the public master key needed?

The public master key, also known as the “HD key” or “Ledger seed,” serves as a unique identifier for each user and their wallet. It contains the cryptographic keys used to sign transactions and create new keys on the blockchain. With access to this public master key, you can obtain other keys, such as private keys, signatures, and balances.

How ​​to extract the public master key from Ledger Nano S:

To extract the public master key from Ledger Nano S, follow these steps:

• Enable “Ledger Security Mode”: Go to Settings > Advanced Security > Ledger Security Mode.

• Create a new device password: Set a strong and unique password for your wallet.

• Enter recovery seed (optional): If you have a recovery seed from a previous version of your wallet, enter it to unlock advanced settings.

Advanced Security Mode (LSM) and HD Key Derivation

In LSM mode, Ledger introduces a new level of security by using a separate encryption key for the public master key. To extract the public master key in this mode:

• Set device password: Create a strong and unique password to unlock your wallet.

• Enable LSM Mode (LSM): Go to Settings > Advanced Security > LSM.

• Unlock Wallet: Enter your device password to unlock LSM mode.

Deriving HD Keys from Public Master Key

With LSM mode enabled, you can obtain other keys, such as private keys and signatures, using the following methods:

• Deriving HD Key (HDD): Use a tool like Ledger-Tools or Ledger-Bridge to derive keys from your public master key.

• Download and install one of these tools on your computer.

• Upload your Ledger wallet using the appropriate software.

• Follow the instructions to generate HD keys.

• Deriving Private Key (PKE): Use a tool like Ledger-Tools or Ledger-Bridge to derive private keys from your key. public key.

• Download and install one of these tools on your computer.

• Load your Ledger wallet using the appropriate software.

• Follow the instructions to generate private keys.

Is it possible to access your public master key without LSM mode?

Unfortunately, no. Without LSM mode enabled, you will not be able to extract your public master key from your Ledger wallet. The public master key is a protected setting that requires advanced security features, such as LSM mode, to be unlocked.

Conclusion

Extracting your public master key from your Ledger Nano S requires enabling LSM mode and using an external tool to obtain HD keys or private keys. While you can access your public master key without LSM mode, it is essential that you understand the implications of this process on the security and functionality of your wallet.

By following these steps and understanding the security benefits of LSM mode, you can unlock the full potential of your Ledger Nano S for managing and interacting with cryptocurrencies and DeFi protocols.