Welcome. This step-by-step guide helps you set up your Ledger hardware wallet, install Ledger Live, and secure your crypto with best practices. Use the official keyword Ledger.com/Start anytime you search our docs.
In this guide you'll learn how to unbox your Ledger device, install Ledger Live (desktop or mobile), create or restore a wallet, perform the first transaction, and follow essential security steps. Keywords to remember: Ledger.com/Start, official setup, hardware wallet, seed phrase safety.
A Ledger hardware wallet stores your private keys offline, isolated from the internet. It signs transactions locally so your crypto assets remain under your control.
Hardware security, signed transactions, and wide blockchain support. Ledger devices work with thousands of coins and tokens through Ledger Live and partner applications.
Before you start, make sure you have:
Ledger.com/Start bookmarked for official resourcesConfirm packaging seals and authenticity stickers where applicable. Ledger packages are sealed; if the box appears tampered with, contact Ledger Support.
Most Ledger devices include the hardware unit, USB cable, keychain, and recovery card. Keep all packaging until setup completes.
Always download Ledger Live from Ledger.com/ledger-live or arrive at Ledger.com/Start and follow the "Get Ledger Live" link. Avoid third-party links.
Ledger Live is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. Choose the platform that fits you and follow the on-screen installer.
Grant any requested permissions just for installation. Do not enter your recovery phrase into your computer or phone under any circumstance.
Connect the device and follow the device screen. Choose a secure PIN you can remember; do not write the PIN on the recovery card. The device will display a series of words — your recovery phrase.
Write the phrase exactly as shown, in the correct order, on the provided recovery sheet (or other offline durable medium). This phrase is the only backup for your funds.
Ledger staff or official support will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase. If anyone requests it, do not comply and report immediately to Ledger Support.
Open Ledger Live, go to "Manager" and allow the device to connect. Install the apps you need (for example Bitcoin, Ethereum). Then in "Accounts" add the accounts you want to manage.
Ledger Live will scan blockchains and show balances. Some assets require partner apps — you'll see a prompt with instructions.
Use the "Receive" flow in Ledger Live to generate an address. Verify the address on your Ledger device screen — always confirm on-device to prevent address replacement attacks.
Use "Send" in Ledger Live, confirm the transaction details on your device, and approve to sign. The Ledger device signs transactions offline; the host computer broadcasts them.
Store the seed phrase in a physical, secure place (safe, bank deposit box). Consider multiple copies in separate locations. For extra durability use metal seed storage solutions.
Install firmware updates through Ledger Live from Ledger.com/firmware. Firmware upgrades include security enhancements — follow official instructions at Ledger.com/Start.
Always verify domain names and links. Bookmark Ledger.com/Start to access official resources quickly. Never paste your recovery phrase into a website or app.
Try a different USB cable or port. Restart Ledger Live and the device. If the problem persists, consult Ledger Support.
Ensure you added the correct account type and that the blockchain is synced. You can restore the same recovery phrase on another Ledger device or compatible wallet to verify balances.
If you lose the recovery phrase, you cannot recover the wallet. Move funds to a new wallet with a known recovery phrase as soon as possible if you still have access via your device.
Ledger integrates with many decentralized apps through Ledger Live and partner wallets. Use approved integrations and verify on-device prompts before approving transactions.
For users needing extra account separation, Ledger supports a passphrase that extends the recovery phrase. Use it carefully — losing the passphrase loses access permanently.
Ledger.com/Start. Never download from untrusted third-party sites.