Welcome — what this page covers
Welcome to Ledger.com/start. This guide is designed to help new and returning users complete the essential steps for using a Ledger hardware wallet: downloading and installing Ledger Live, unboxing and inspecting your device, initializing or restoring your wallet, recording and protecting your recovery phrase, and performing the first secure transactions. Follow each step carefully — hardware wallets are powerful security tools, and small mistakes during setup can have significant consequences later.
Before you begin — checklist
- Your Ledger device (Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus, Nano X, or other supported model).
- The original USB cable included with your device (or a verified compatible cable).
- A trusted computer or mobile device (avoid public terminals).
- A pen and the recovery sheet provided, or a certified metal backup for long-term storage.
- An internet connection to download Ledger Live from the official site.
Step 1 — Download Ledger Live (official source only)
Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile app used to manage accounts, send and receive assets, and update device firmware. Always download it from ledger.com/ledger-live or from the Apple App Store / Google Play Store. Do not follow links from unknown emails or social media posts — phishing sites mimic Ledger branding to steal recovery phrases.
- Open a browser and go to ledger.com/start or ledger.com/ledger-live.
- Select the installer for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux) or install the mobile app from your device’s official app store.
- Run the installer and follow the on-screen steps to complete installation.
Security tip: Verify the HTTPS lock icon and domain before downloading. If anything looks off, stop and contact Ledger Support.
Step 2 — Unbox and inspect your Ledger device
Examine the packaging and device. If the tamper seal is broken or packaging appears altered, do not proceed — contact the seller or Ledger Support. Confirm the model and that accessories (cable, recovery sheet) are present.
- Check the device for visible damage or signs of tampering.
- Ensure the serial number (if present) matches the box or retailer information.
Step 3 — Initialize your device (new device)
When you initialize a new Ledger device, you will create a PIN and generate a recovery phrase. These steps occur mainly on the device itself — that’s by design. Do not enter your recovery words into a computer or phone.
- Open Ledger Live and choose Get started, then select Set up a new device.
- Connect the device to your computer (USB) or pair via Bluetooth if supported (Nano X), and follow the prompts in Ledger Live.
- Create a PIN directly on the device. Choose a PIN that you can remember but others cannot guess.
- The device will present a 24-word recovery phrase (some models allow 12 or 18 words). Write these words down on the recovery sheet in order. Double-check the spelling and order — this is your only backup.
- Confirm a few words when prompted to verify you recorded the seed correctly.
Never store the full recovery phrase digitally — not in cloud storage, pictures, text files, or password managers. Treat it as the keys to your vault.
Step 4 — Restore an existing wallet
If you already have a recovery phrase from another device or a previous Ledger, choose the Restore device option in Ledger Live and enter the words directly on the device when prompted. Restoring on-device keeps the seed entry offline and reduces exposure to malware.
Step 5 — Add accounts in Ledger Live
After initialization or restoration, add cryptocurrency accounts in Ledger Live. Ledger Live reads public addresses from the device — private keys remain securely isolated and never leave the hardware.
- Open Ledger Live and unlock your device using the PIN you created.
- Go to Accounts → Add account, choose the currency, and follow prompts to scan the blockchain for existing balances and transactions.
- Repeat to add multiple currencies or multiple accounts for the same currency if desired.
Step 6 — Verify addresses and transactions on-device
When receiving funds, always display the receiving address on your Ledger device and verify it matches the address shown in Ledger Live. When sending, Ledger Live will build the transaction but your device will display recipient address, amount, and fee — confirm every detail on the device before approving. This on-device verification prevents malware from replacing addresses or amounts.
Security best practices
- Write your recovery phrase offline: use the provided recovery sheet, a secure notebook, or a metal backup plate for long-term durability.
- Use a unique PIN: avoid trivial sequences. The device will lock or wipe after multiple incorrect attempts (depending on model settings).
- Keep multiple physical backups: store copies in separate secure locations (safety deposit box, trusted relative, fireproof safe).
- Enable passphrase carefully: a passphrase creates a hidden wallet but is unrecoverable if forgotten. Only use it if you fully understand the responsibility.
- Firmware & software updates: apply updates only through Ledger Live and confirm prompts on the device screen.
Troubleshooting common issues
Device not detected
- Try a different USB port or cable (prefer the original cable).
- Restart Ledger Live and your computer, then reconnect the device.
- On macOS or Linux, check USB permissions; on Windows, ensure drivers are up to date.
Firmware update problems
Follow Ledger Live’s guided update steps and do not disconnect the device during the process. If update fails, follow on-screen recovery options or consult Ledger Support.
After setup — recommended next steps
- Explore Ledger Live features: portfolio, send/receive, staking, swap integrations, and third-party dApp connections via official integrations.
- Consider a dedicated machine for high-value transfers to reduce risk.
- Familiarize yourself with official support resources at support.ledger.com.
If your device is lost or stolen
If your Ledger device is lost or stolen, your funds remain secure provided your recovery phrase and PIN are safe. Use the recovery phrase to restore your wallet on a new Ledger device or compatible hardware wallet. If you suspect the seed was exposed, move funds immediately to a new wallet generated from a new recovery phrase.
Final notes — stay vigilant
Hardware wallets dramatically reduce risk by keeping private keys offline, but they are not a substitute for sound operational security. Always use official downloads, verify addresses on the device screen, protect your recovery phrase, and be cautious with third-party integrations. With careful setup and good habits, a Ledger device offers a strong foundation for owning and managing cryptocurrency securely.