Get Started with Ledger — Ledger.com/start
Quick summary
This guide walks you through everything you need to go from unboxing your Ledger device to sending and managing crypto safely. We'll cover the required materials, setup steps at Ledger.com/start, best security habits, common pitfalls, troubleshooting, and curated resources. Follow the steps closely — hardware wallets are powerful but require attention to detail.
Why use a Ledger hardware wallet?
Security-first design
Hardware wallets like Ledger keep your private keys isolated inside a secure chip. The device signs transactions internally; your private keys never leave the device. This dramatically reduces the risk of theft compared to storing keys on an internet-connected device.
Control + flexibility
Ledger supports many blockchains and tokens via Ledger Live and third-party apps. You remain in full control of your funds — no custodial middleman. That said, with great control comes great responsibility: backup your recovery phrase securely.
Who should use a Ledger?
Anyone holding non-trivial amounts of crypto who wants long-term security, collectors with many different tokens, and people who want to self-custody while keeping funds accessible for spending or staking.
What you'll need before starting
- Genuine Ledger hardware device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or supported model).
- Computer (Windows/Mac/Linux) or mobile device for Ledger Live, and a USB cable or Bluetooth if using Nano X.
- Access to the official site: Ledger.com/start
- Quiet space to write down your recovery phrase on the provided recovery sheet (not on a digital device).
- A secure place to store the recovery sheet (fireproof safe, safety deposit box).
Important safety reminders
Never enter your recovery phrase into a website, app, or phone. Ledger staff will never ask for it. If any website asks for your 24-word phrase, that is a scam.
Step-by-step setup (follow these closely)
Step 1 — Unbox & inspect
Check for tamper-evidence and that the packaging looks genuine. Your Ledger box should contain the device, a USB cable, recovery sheets, and quick start instructions. If anything seems off, contact support before proceeding.
Step 2 — Go to Ledger.com/start
Open a browser and navigate to Ledger.com/start. This page provides device-specific downloads, official firmware, and step-by-step instructions from Ledger.
Step 3 — Install Ledger Live
Download Ledger Live for your platform from the official site. Ledger Live is the companion app used to manage accounts, update firmware, and install apps for different blockchains. Install it and open the app.
Step 4 — Initialize your device
Follow the on-screen instructions on both Ledger Live and your device. Choose Set up as new device if you don't have a recovery phrase. Pick a PIN code on the device — memorize the structure, but write it nowhere.
Step 5 — Write down your recovery phrase
The device will show a 24-word recovery phrase (or 12/24 depending on model). Write each word in order on the supplied recovery card. Verify the words carefully. This phrase is the single backup of your entire wallet — treat it like gold.
Step 6 — Confirm recovery phrase
Your device will ask you to confirm a few words to ensure you wrote them down correctly. Confirm as requested. Do not skip this verification; it ensures your backup is correct.
Step 7 — Install apps & add accounts
Use Ledger Live's Manager to install blockchain apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.) on the device. Then add accounts in Ledger Live for the blockchains you plan to use. Each account corresponds to an address that the device can manage.
Step 8 — Receive a small test transaction
Before sending large amounts, receive a small test transfer to your new address to confirm everything is correct. Check the address shown in Ledger Live against the address on your device screen — they must match.
Step 9 — Send & sign transactions
When sending, Ledger Live constructs the transaction and your device displays the destination and amount. Verify the details on the device and physically confirm to sign. Signing on-device ensures that transactions cannot be tampered with remotely.
Step 10 — Keep firmware updated
Ledger periodically releases firmware updates that may add features and security improvements. Use Ledger Live to update when prompted. Only update from Ledger Live after confirming you're on the official site.
Security best practices
Never disclose your recovery phrase
Your 24-word phrase is the master key to your wallet. Store it offline and physically. If someone obtains it — even months later — they can steal your funds.
Use a secure PIN and physical protection
Choose a PIN only you know and avoid easy patterns. If possible, physically secure the device when not in use (safe or other secure location).
Do not store secrets on cloud or photos
Pictures or digital notes can leak. Resist the convenience of photographing or copying your recovery phrase into password managers or cloud storage — these are attack surfaces.
Consider a metal backup
Paper degrades. Many users invest in a metal backup plate (stamped or engraved) for the recovery words to protect against fire and water damage.
Advanced: passphrase & multiple accounts
Ledger supports optional passphrases (BIP39 passphrase) for additional account separation. This is advanced and can protect funds, but if you forget the passphrase you lose access — treat it like another secret to back up.
Troubleshooting & common mistakes
Device not recognized by Ledger Live
Try a different USB cable/port, ensure the device is unlocked, and that Ledger Live has necessary OS permissions (e.g., USB access). Restart Ledger Live and the device. If problems persist, consult the official support link below.
Lost recovery phrase
If you lose the recovery phrase and still have a working device, immediately create a new wallet and transfer funds to it, then write down the new recovery phrase securely. If the device is lost and phrase is lost too, funds cannot be recovered.
Suspicious links or popups
Avoid entering your recovery phrase into any website. If you receive an email or message claiming to be Ledger asking for your phrase, treat it as phishing. Always check the URL carefully and use official links only.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ledger compatible with my crypto?
Ledger supports a wide range of blockchains. Use Ledger Live or the Manager to search supported apps. For niche tokens, third-party wallets may integrate with your Ledger device.
Can I recover funds from the recovery phrase on another device?
Yes. A BIP39-compatible phrase can be restored into compatible hardware or software wallets. However, ensure the target environment is trustworthy — restoring to a malicious or compromised device is risky.
What if Ledger Live asks for a firmware update?
Perform firmware updates through Ledger Live from the official site. Do not install firmware from unknown sources. Backup your recovery phrase before major firmware changes.
Useful links & resources (10 official Ledger links)
Below are ten official Ledger links to help you: setup pages, support, downloads and guidance. Each link opens in a new tab.
Tip: Bookmark these official resources and always double-check the URL before downloading or entering any sensitive information.
Final thoughts & next steps
Make security a habit
Setting up a Ledger hardware wallet is a small time investment that pays lifelong dividends in security. Keep your recovery phrase offline, update firmware responsibly, and verify addresses and amounts on-device before signing.
Start small, then scale
When you first move funds to a new wallet, send small test transfers. Once satisfied, you can move larger amounts. Consider splitting holdings across multiple wallets if you manage high-value sums or different risk profiles.
Share wisely
Share public addresses to receive funds — never share your PIN or recovery phrase. If you need help, use the official support channels listed above.