Ledger.com/Start® — Getting started with your Ledger
A clear, step-by-step guide to set up your Ledger hardware wallet, install Ledger Live, secure your recovery phrase, and safely manage crypto. Designed as a presentation-style web guide for fast reading and confident action.
Why Ledger? Hardware security that puts you in control
Ledger's hardware wallets isolate your private keys inside a tamper-resistant device so that signing transactions happens offline. That strong separation reduces the attack surface compared to software-only wallets and lets you keep complete ownership of your crypto assets.
1
Ownership: Ledger keeps your keys offline — you hold your recovery phrase, not us.
2
Compatibility: Works with Ledger Live and many third-party dApps and wallets.
3
Secure updates: Firmware and app updates are verified by Ledger’s secure boot process.
Step 1 — Unbox and verify your device
Always order directly from Ledger or an authorized reseller. When your device arrives, inspect packaging for tamper signs, then power it up. The onboarding screens will prompt you to either create a new wallet or restore an existing one.
Tip: Never accept a pre-initialized device. Ledger devices are secure when you initialize them yourself and write down your recovery phrase personally.
Follow the device prompts to set a PIN code: this blocks physical access. Next, the device generates a 24-word recovery phrase. WRITE IT DOWN on the supplied sheet and store it offline, ideally in a fireproof/waterproof safe.
Do not: store the phrase in plain text on a computer, cloud drive, photo, or anywhere online.
Step 3 — Install Ledger Live
Download Ledger Live from the official site (ledger.com/start) and install it on your desktop or mobile device. Ledger Live is the management app for installing coin apps, adding accounts, sending/receiving funds, and updating your device.
4
Open Ledger Live → follow the app to add your device type → confirm connection with the hardware wallet.
Step 4 — Add accounts & install apps
Inside Ledger Live’s Manager tab you’ll find apps for Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and many others. Install only the apps you need. Then add accounts — Ledger Live creates watch-only accounts tied to your device; successful transactions must be signed on the hardware wallet.
Everyday security habits
Make secure behaviors habitual: keep firmware and Ledger Live updated, verify transaction details on the device screen, refuse unsolicited help that asks for your recovery phrase, and check for fake websites or phishing links.
Never share: your 24-word recovery phrase or PIN with anyone — Ledger support will never ask for it.
Restore & backup strategies
If your device is lost, stolen, or damaged you can restore funds on a new Ledger or compatible wallet using your 24-word phrase. Consider these backups:
5
Primary paper/metal backup stored in a secure location.
6
Optional split-seed (Shamir or third-party) for advanced redundancy.
Troubleshooting & support
Common hiccups: connection issues (try a different cable/port), Ledger Live shows "device not recognized" (ensure device unlocked), or app installations hang (restart Ledger Live). For unresolved problems, go to the official support channels — never share your recovery phrase in support chats.
Ledger.com/Start® | Getting started — Ledger
Ldg
Ledger.com/Start® — Getting started with your Ledger
A clear, step-by-step guide to set up your Ledger hardware wallet, install Ledger Live, secure your recovery phrase, and safely manage crypto. Designed as a presentation-style web guide for fast reading and confident action.
Why Ledger? Hardware security that puts you in control
Ledger's hardware wallets isolate your private keys inside a tamper-resistant device so that signing transactions happens offline. That strong separation reduces the attack surface compared to software-only wallets and lets you keep complete ownership of your crypto assets.
1
Ownership: Ledger keeps your keys offline — you hold your recovery phrase, not us.
2
Compatibility: Works with Ledger Live and many third-party dApps and wallets.
3
Secure updates: Firmware and app updates are verified by Ledger’s secure boot process.
Step 1 — Unbox and verify your device
Always order directly from Ledger or an authorized reseller. When your device arrives, inspect packaging for tamper signs, then power it up. The onboarding screens will prompt you to either create a new wallet or restore an existing one.
Tip: Never accept a pre-initialized device. Ledger devices are secure when you initialize them yourself and write down your recovery phrase personally.
Follow the device prompts to set a PIN code: this blocks physical access. Next, the device generates a 24-word recovery phrase. WRITE IT DOWN on the supplied sheet and store it offline, ideally in a fireproof/waterproof safe.
Do not: store the phrase in plain text on a computer, cloud drive, photo, or anywhere online.
Step 3 — Install Ledger Live
Download Ledger Live from the official site (ledger.com/start) and install it on your desktop or mobile device. Ledger Live is the management app for installing coin apps, adding accounts, sending/receiving funds, and updating your device.
4
Open Ledger Live → follow the app to add your device type → confirm connection with the hardware wallet.
Step 4 — Add accounts & install apps
Inside Ledger Live’s Manager tab you’ll find apps for Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and many others. Install only the apps you need. Then add accounts — Ledger Live creates watch-only accounts tied to your device; successful transactions must be signed on the hardware wallet.
Everyday security habits
Make secure behaviors habitual: keep firmware and Ledger Live updated, verify transaction details on the device screen, refuse unsolicited help that asks for your recovery phrase, and check for fake websites or phishing links.
Never share: your 24-word recovery phrase or PIN with anyone — Ledger support will never ask for it.
Restore & backup strategies
If your device is lost, stolen, or damaged you can restore funds on a new Ledger or compatible wallet using your 24-word phrase. Consider these backups:
5
Primary paper/metal backup stored in a secure location.
6
Optional split-seed (Shamir or third-party) for advanced redundancy.
Troubleshooting & support
Common hiccups: connection issues (try a different cable/port), Ledger Live shows "device not recognized" (ensure device unlocked), or app installations hang (restart Ledger Live). For unresolved problems, go to the official support channels — never share your recovery phrase in support chats.