Get started with Ledger — Ledger.com/start

Your first safe step is the official setup portal: Ledger.com/start. Bookmark it before you proceed.

Why start here?

Hardware wallets protect private keys offline, but the setup matters just as much as the device. Beginning at the official guide ensures you download authentic software, verify firmware, and follow security best practices designed by the manufacturer. Think of Ledger Live + device as two halves of one safe system.

What you’ll need

Your Ledger device (sealed box), a USB cable, and a computer you trust.
Pen and paper for your 24-word recovery phrase—never a camera or cloud notes.
A few quiet minutes without distractions; security loves patience.

When in doubt, recheck the instructions on the official start page.

Secure, smooth setup in five parts

Part 1 — Verify the source

Step A: Download Ledger Live

Only download from the signed installer linked at Ledger.com/start. Avoid search-engine ads and third-party mirrors. After download, compare the checksum or signature if provided and run system security updates first.

Part 2 — Initialize your device

Step B: Power on & create a PIN

Connect the device, follow on-screen prompts, and choose a strong PIN you won’t forget. Don’t use birthdays or repeating digits.

Step C: Write down the recovery phrase

The device displays 24 words—this is the master key. Write them neatly on paper, in order, twice. Never type them on a phone or computer. Anyone who sees these words can move your crypto.

Part 3 — Pair with Ledger Live

Step D: Run the onboarding checks

Open Ledger Live, complete the genuine-check, and update firmware if prompted. Keep the device plugged in and don’t interrupt power. If something feels off, compare screens with the walkthrough at Ledger.com/start.

Part 4 — Install apps & add accounts

Step E: Choose the networks you use

In the Manager tab, install only the apps you need (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). Each app handles keys for its network and lets you add accounts to monitor balances and transact through Ledger Live.

Part 5 — Practice a safe first transaction

Step F: Send a tiny test

Start with a small amount to confirm addresses and fees. Verify the full address on the device screen before approving—your device’s display is the source of truth, not the computer.

Tip:

If you need to revisit any step, the clearest route is the official guide: official setup guide.

Security checklist

OK: Download Ledger Live only via Ledger.com/start.
OK: Confirm every address on your device screen before sending.
Warning: Never photograph or scan your recovery phrase.
Never: Share 24 words with anyone—even “support.” Real support will never ask.
OK: Store the phrase in two separate, secret places; consider a fire/water-resistant backup.

Common mistakes to avoid

Using search-ads that lead to fake installers. Always start at the official portal.
Typing the recovery phrase into any keyboard. The device is the only safe place to confirm words.
Skipping firmware updates—these often include critical hardening improvements.
Approving blind transactions. Read the on-device summary every time.

Troubleshooting & next steps

Connection issues

Try another cable/port, close conflicting apps, and ensure your OS recognizes the device. If needed, walk through the fixes linked from Ledger.com/start.

Recovery practice (optional but smart)

Consider practicing a restore on a spare device before you need it. This confirms your written phrase is correct and complete.

Keep learning

Explore account features, staking support, and advanced approvals in Ledger Live. For updated instructions, return to Ledger.com/start and bookmark it.

This guide is educational; always follow the latest instructions in the official documentation.