Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start®

Ledger.com/Start®

Getting started — protect your crypto with confidence

This guide walks you through the essential first steps to set up your Ledger device and Ledger Live application so you can store and manage your crypto securely. Follow these core principles: keep your recovery phrase private, verify device screens, and update software only from official sources. The instructions below are written to be clear and practical for first-time hardware wallet users.

Unbox & Inspect

Check tamper seals and included items. If anything looks suspicious, contact support before proceeding.

Connect Ledger Live

Download Ledger Live from the official site, install the app, and create a new wallet or restore from a recovery phrase.

Create a PIN

Choose a secure PIN you can remember — never store it digitally.

Step-by-step setup

1 — Install Ledger Live

Get Ledger Live on your desktop or mobile. Follow official prompts to install firmware and apps for the currencies you use.

2 — Initialize device

Power on the device, set a PIN, and write down the 24-word recovery phrase on the provided card. Keep it offline and private.

3 — Add accounts

Open Ledger Live, add accounts for Bitcoin, Ethereum, or others, then receive addresses only after confirming on your device.

4 — Keep firmware updated

Regular firmware updates fix bugs and improve security; apply them via Ledger Live when prompted.

Why a hardware wallet?

A hardware wallet stores private keys offline so they cannot be tampered with by malware on your computer. It provides an isolated environment for transaction signing and verification. Using a hardware device reduces attack surface and dramatically improves long-term security for digital assets.

Best practices

Make multiple secure backups of your recovery phrase (paper, metal plate).
Never enter the recovery phrase into a computer or phone.
Use a strong, unique PIN and consider passphrase support where applicable.

Recommended next steps

1. Initialize device — 2. Install apps — 3. Add accounts — 4. Send a small test transfer

Support & resources

Official guides, community forums, and knowledge base articles provide extra help.