Official Site® — Ledger.com/Start®

Getting started — a clear, step-by-step guide to set up your Ledger hardware wallet and Ledger Live so you can securely manage your crypto assets.

Why choose Ledger?

Ledger hardware wallets store private keys in a secure, offline environment, commonly called a secure element. This keeps your keys isolated from internet-connected devices, protecting them from malware and remote attackers. Ledger provides a compact, user-friendly device plus the Ledger Live application to manage accounts, receive/send funds, and install apps for supported blockchains.

Quick note: Always buy Ledger devices only from the official store or an authorized reseller to avoid tampered devices.

Before you start — what you'll need

  • A Ledger hardware device (e.g., Ledger Nano series) purchased from an official channel.
  • A computer (Windows, macOS, Linux) or a compatible mobile device (iOS/Android) with a USB-C/Lightning adapter if required.
  • A USB cable supplied with your Ledger device (do not use unknown or modified cables).
  • Stable internet connection to download Ledger Live from the official site.
  • A private, quiet place to write down and safely store your recovery phrase (the 24-word recovery phrase). Do not photograph it or store it digitally.

Step-by-step setup

1. Unbox and inspect

Unpack your Ledger device and check the box seal and contents. Confirm that the packaging matches what the official site described and that there is no visible tampering.

2. Download Ledger Live

On your computer or mobile, download Ledger Live from the official source. Ledger Live is the companion app used to manage your crypto accounts. Run the installer and follow on-screen prompts to install.

3. Initialize your device

  1. Connect the Ledger device to your computer/mobile using the supplied cable.
  2. Power on the device and follow the on-screen instructions. Choose Set up as new device unless you're restoring from an existing recovery phrase.
  3. Create a PIN code on the device. Choose a PIN you will remember but that’s not easily guessable. The device will ask you to confirm it.
  4. The device will then generate your recovery phrase (24 words). Write these words down in the order shown — on paper — and keep them offline and secure. This phrase is the only backup of your crypto accounts.
Security reminder: Never share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone. Ledger support will never ask for these words.

4. Install apps and add accounts

Open Ledger Live and follow the Manager flow to install blockchain apps (for example, Bitcoin, Ethereum) on your device. After apps are installed, use the Accounts tab to add accounts for each blockchain you plan to use.

Using Ledger Live — receive, send, and manage

Receive crypto

  1. Open Ledger Live → Accounts → Select the account → Receive.
  2. Follow the on-screen instructions and verify the receiving address shown in Ledger Live on your Ledger device's screen — the addresses must match exactly.
  3. Copy the verified address and provide it to the sender or use it in the exchange/wallet you’re withdrawing from.

Send crypto

  1. Open Ledger Live → Accounts → Select the account → Send.
  2. Enter the destination address and amount. Ledger Live will show fees and a summary.
  3. Confirm the transaction details on your device before approving. The transaction is only valid after you physically confirm it on the hardware wallet.

App updates & firmware

Ledger periodically releases firmware updates and app updates. Only install official updates through Ledger Live. Firmware updates may require that you re-enter your PIN and confirm your recovery phrase is safely stored before proceeding.

Security best practices

  • Keep your recovery phrase offline: never type it into a website or store it digitally (photos, cloud, email).
  • Verify addresses on the device screen: always cross-check the address on the hardware device — this prevents malicious software on your computer from substituting addresses.
  • Use official software only: download Ledger Live and device firmware from the official site and check signatures when available.
  • Be cautious with browser extensions: some extensions can attempt to trick you into signing transactions.
  • Backup and diversification: consider using multiple secure backups or geographically separated storage for your recovery phrase if you manage substantial value.

Restoring a device (using your recovery phrase)

If you lose your device or it becomes damaged, you can restore your accounts to a new Ledger device using your 24-word recovery phrase:

  1. On the new device, choose Restore configuration during setup.
  2. Enter the 24 words exactly in order. Confirm the PIN.
  3. Install necessary apps via Ledger Live and add your accounts; balances and transaction history will resynchronize from the network.

Only restore on a device you trust. If you suspect your recovery phrase was ever exposed, move assets to a new wallet with a newly generated recovery phrase as soon as possible.

Troubleshooting — common issues

Device not recognized

Try a different USB port or cable, ensure Ledger Live is up to date, and verify your OS supports the device. Restart Ledger Live and your computer. If the issue persists, consult official support resources.

Forgot PIN

If you forget your PIN, the device will perform a factory reset after a number of incorrect attempts. To regain access you must restore from your 24-word recovery phrase.

Lost recovery phrase

If you lose your recovery phrase and no other backup exists, access to your crypto cannot be recovered. This is why the recovery phrase is critical.

FAQ — quick answers

Can Ledger hold multiple cryptocurrencies?
Yes. Ledger supports many blockchains via specific apps installed on the device and managed through Ledger Live.
Is Ledger safe for long-term storage?
Ledger devices are specifically designed for long-term cold storage when used with secure backup practices.
Can I use Ledger with third-party wallets?
Yes. Ledger can be used with compatible third-party wallets; always verify compatibility before connecting and never share your recovery phrase.
What happens if Ledger stops existing?
Your crypto is tied to your recovery phrase — not to Ledger as a company. As long as you control your recovery phrase, you control your funds and can restore to compatible wallets.

Final steps & checklist

  • Confirm your device is set up with a secure PIN.
  • Confirm your 24-word recovery phrase is written down in order and stored safely offline.
  • Install Ledger Live from the official source and add accounts.
  • Perform a small test transaction to verify receive/send flows before transferring large funds.

Download Ledger Live

© Official Site® — Ledger.com/Start® | This page is a general getting-started guide. For official support articles, device-specific instructions, and the latest firmware information, always consult official Ledger resources.