Ledger.com/Start — Getting Started Guide
A clear, trusted walkthrough to set up your Ledger hardware wallet and Ledger Live safely. Follow each step to protect your crypto from day one.
Start here: what this guide covers
This page walks you through unboxing, installing Ledger Live, initializing a device, securely backing up your recovery phrase, adding accounts, and basic operations such as sending and receiving crypto. It also outlines best security practices and where to get official support. Follow the instructions carefully — protecting your private keys is the foundation of self-custody.
Before you begin
Ensure you have a safe workspace, a stable internet connection for downloading official software, and physical paper or a metal backup for your recovery phrase. Never store your recovery phrase digitally (photos, cloud, notes). If possible, buy Ledger devices only from ledger.com or an authorized reseller.
Unboxing & authenticity
When your Ledger wallet arrives, inspect the packaging for signs of tampering. Genuine Ledger devices ship sealed and include documentation, a USB cable, and recovery sheets. If anything seems unusual, pause and contact official support. Ledger Live performs an authenticity check the first time you connect; allow that process to complete before proceeding.
Download Ledger Live
Always download Ledger Live from ledger.com/start. The app is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. Installing Ledger Live provides the official companion for your device: it installs blockchain apps, manages accounts, and serves as the interface for sending, receiving, and staking—while private keys remain on the hardware device.
During installation the app will verify its own integrity. Do not follow links in unsolicited messages; navigate directly to the site or use official app stores.
Initialize your Ledger device
Power on the device and choose “Set up as new device.” Create a PIN using the device buttons; this PIN protects access to the device. Next the wallet will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. Write every word in order on the recovery sheet supplied. Confirm the words as prompted; the device will ask a few verification questions to ensure accuracy.
Important: Never enter your recovery phrase into a computer, phone, or website. Ledger support will never ask for it. Keep the physical backup offline and secure — consider a fireproof/waterproof metal backup for long-term storage.
Add accounts & install apps
Open Ledger Live, go to the Manager, and install the specific blockchain apps you need (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.). After installing apps, add accounts in Ledger Live. Each account corresponds to addresses generated by your hardware wallet. Use the “Receive” flow to display an address; always verify that the address shown in Ledger Live matches the address displayed on your device screen before sharing it.
Send & receive safely
To receive, choose the account and use the Receive action to show an address. The address on your computer must match the one on the device screen. To send, enter recipient details in Ledger Live and confirm the full transaction on the physical device. Transaction approval on-device prevents malware from altering destination addresses or amounts.
Firmware & software updates
Keep both Ledger Live and your Ledger device firmware up to date. Updates include security hardening and new asset support. Install updates only through Ledger Live Manager. Before performing firmware updates, ensure your recovery phrase is securely stored — updates can require reinitialization if interrupted.
Security best practices
Use a unique, strong PIN. Protect the email linked to any services you use. Always verify URLs and avoid downloading attachments or clicking unknown links. Limit third-party integrations to those you trust and regularly review connected applications. Consider using a dedicated, malware-free computer for high-value operations.
Lost device & recovery
If your Ledger is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can recover your wallets on a new Ledger device using your 24-word recovery phrase. Only enter the recovery phrase on a trusted, offline hardware wallet — never type it into a website or mobile app. After recovery, review all accounts and reset any linked services if you suspect compromise.
Official support & resources
For detailed tutorials, video walkthroughs, or troubleshooting articles visit the official Ledger Support Center at support.ledger.com. Use only the contact information listed on Ledger’s official domain. Beware of impersonators on social media or email — Ledger will never request your recovery phrase or ask you to transfer funds to prove ownership.
Closing notes
Starting at Ledger.com/Start ensures you use official software and documented procedures. Ledger’s model of self-custody empowers you to own and control your crypto safely. By following the steps in this guide and keeping backups offline, you establish a strong security posture for years of secure asset management.