Getting Started with Your Ledger Device

Welcome — setting up your Ledger hardware wallet is the single most important step you can take to protect your cryptocurrency. This guide walks you through each stage of initialization, explains best practices for security, and points out common troubleshooting steps. If you need the official setup portal, use ledger.com/start.

Step 1 — Unbox and Verify

When your Ledger device arrives, first inspect the packaging for tampering. Only use the device if the seals look intact. Ledger’s official instructions and download links live on the official startup page: ledger.com/start. Avoid third-party links. Confirm the model name and match the serial number on the box to the device.

Step 2 — Download Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the companion app for managing accounts, installing apps, and updating firmware. Download Ledger Live from the official site only. After installing, open Ledger Live and follow the on-screen instructions to begin the onboarding flow. Ledger Live will guide you when to connect your device and which buttons to press on the physical Ledger.

Tip: Never share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone — Ledger will never ask for it via email or support chat.

Step 3 — Initialize the Device

Follow Ledger Live prompts to create a new device or restore an existing wallet. If creating a new wallet, the device generates a secure recovery phrase. Write the recovery phrase down with the included recovery sheet — do not store it digitally (no photos, no cloud storage). Keep that written copy somewhere safe and private.

Step 4 — Install Apps & Add Accounts

Ledger devices support many blockchains. Using Ledger Live, install the apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) you plan to use. After installing the relevant apps, add accounts in Ledger Live and receive addresses to start transferring funds. Each account is independently derived from your single recovery phrase.

Security Best Practices

Always verify the address displayed on the Ledger device before confirming a transaction.
Keep firmware up to date — updates often include important security fixes.
Never enter your recovery phrase into a computer, phone, or website.
Consider using a passphrase (advanced) for added account segregation and privacy.

Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues

If Ledger Live fails to recognize your device, try a different USB cable or port and ensure the device is fully powered. For firmware or application updates, keep Ledger Live open and follow the prompts exactly. If you still experience problems, consult the official help pages or community resources linked from ledger.com/start.

Recovery & Emergencies

If your device is lost or damaged, your funds are not lost — they can be recovered with your recovery phrase on any compatible hardware or software wallet. If you ever suspect your recovery phrase has been exposed, move funds to a fresh wallet immediately. Consider splitting high-value holdings across multiple wallets for additional risk management.

Why Choose a Hardware Wallet?

Hardware wallets isolate private keys from computers and mobile devices, dramatically reducing the risk of remote theft. By confirming transactions directly on the device screen, you maintain control over approvals. Hardware wallets are a foundational tool for anyone holding meaningful cryptocurrency.