Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start®

Introduction

Welcome to the Official Ledger Start Guide — your trusted, step-by-step path to safely set up and use your Ledger hardware wallet. Whether you’re new to cryptocurrency or a seasoned user, this guide will walk you through every stage: from unboxing and device setup, to securing your recovery phrase, to sending and receiving crypto, and beyond.

We recommend you read through this entire guide first, then follow the sections in order. Always use only the official Ledger site (ledger.com) and never share your PIN or recovery phrase with anyone.

What Is Ledger?

Ledger is a leader in hardware wallet solutions. A hardware wallet is a secure, offline device that holds your cryptocurrency private keys in an isolated environment, completely disconnected from the internet when not in use. This kind of setup significantly reduces the risk of hacking or malware attacks.

With a Ledger device plus the companion software called Ledger Live, you can manage Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of other coins and tokens in a secure and consolidated way.

The power of Ledger lies in combining three elements:

Secure Element chip — a tamper-resistant hardware chip that stores private keys securely
Trusted Display & Buttons — ensuring all confirmations are done on the device itself, not via a computer
Ledger Live software — a user interface to manage accounts, check balances, initiate transactions, install apps, and monitor your portfolio

Unboxing & Inspection

When your Ledger wallet arrives, carefully inspect the packaging to ensure it hasn't been tampered with. Ledger ships devices in tamper-proof or tamper-evident packaging.

Inside the box, you should find:

Your Ledger hardware device (e.g. Nano S Plus, Nano X, etc.)
A USB‑C cable (or relevant connection cable)
Recovery phrase sheets / cards to write down your 24-word phrase
Quick start guide / instruction pamphlet
Accessory items (lanyards, keychain, etc.) if included

Important: If there is a pre-printed recovery phrase or handwritten notes already on the recovery sheet, do **not** use it — discard the device and contact support. Your 24-word phrase must be generated by you, privately, during setup.

Device Setup

Follow these steps to set up your Ledger device securely:

Connect the device via USB‑C cable (or power it on, depending on model).
Select “Set up as new device” when prompted.
Choose a PIN code (4–8 digits). Do not use an obvious PIN like “1234” or your birth year.
The device will display a 24-word recovery phrase. Carefully write each word in order on your recovery sheet.
Confirm your recovery phrase when prompted (you may have to select or enter words in the correct order).
If a firmware update is available, Ledger Live will guide you through updating it.

Never enter your recovery phrase on a computer, browser, or share it with anyone. Ledger support will never ask for your recovery phrase or PIN.

Installing Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official application that allows you to manage your Ledger device, accounts, and assets. Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website.

Steps:

Visit ledger.com/start to download the correct version for your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android).
Install and launch Ledger Live.
Click “Get Started” and select your device model.
Connect your Ledger device to your computer or mobile (via USB or Bluetooth, depending on model).
Follow the prompts — Ledger Live will detect your device, prompt for firmware updates if needed, and guide you to add accounts.

Recovery Phrase & Backup

Your 24-word recovery phrase (a.k.a. seed phrase) is the ultimate key to your crypto assets. If your Ledger device is ever lost, damaged, or stolen, this phrase allows you to recover access to your funds. However, if someone else obtains it, they can steal your assets.

Here are precautions and best practices:

Write your phrase on paper (or the supplied sheets) — in a calm, distraction-free environment.
Do not take photos, screenshots, or store the phrase digitally (on phone, computer, cloud).
Consider using metal backup devices (fireproof, waterproof) for long-term safety.
Store backups in separate, secure locations (e.g., home safe, safety deposit box).
Test readability from time to time (check ink hasn’t faded, paper isn’t worn).

If you ever need to restore your wallet:

Open Ledger Live → Restore wallet option.
Enter the 24-word phrase in the correct order.
Choose a new PIN for the restored device.

Using Crypto: Receiving & Sending

Receiving Crypto

Open Ledger Live → Accounts tab.
Select the crypto account (e.g. Bitcoin, Ethereum).
Click “Receive”. Ledger Live will generate an address.
Verify the same address on your Ledger device screen (ensure no tampering).
Copy the address and share it with the sender.

Sending Crypto

Open Ledger Live → Click “Send”.
Select the account and enter the recipient’s address.
Enter the amount and choose transaction fees (standard / fast).
Ledger Live will show a summary of the transaction.
Confirm the transaction on your Ledger device — verifying address, amount, and fees.

Always double-check addresses and fees. Mistyped addresses can result in irreversible loss. Prefer copy and paste, and verify on the device itself.

Security Best Practices

To maximize protection of your investments, follow these best practices:

Buy only from the official Ledger store or authorized resellers.
Regularly update your device firmware via Ledger Live.
Never share your PIN or recovery phrase.
Avoid entering recovery phrases into any website, app, email, or device other than your Ledger device.
Be vigilant against phishing attempts — verify URLs carefully (ledger.com, not misspelled or alternate domains).
If you suspect your phrase has been compromised, move funds to a fresh wallet immediately.
Prefer secure, offline storage of your backup in fireproof and waterproof safes or metal backups.
Use unique and unpredictable PIN codes (not something easily guessable).
Verify transaction details on the physical device screen before approving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What if I lose my Ledger device?

A: Your funds are not stored on the device itself, but on the blockchain. With your 24-word recovery phrase, you can restore your wallet on a new Ledger device or any compatible wallet.

Q: Can I use Ledger on my smartphone?

A: Yes — Ledger Live is available on iOS and Android. Some Ledger devices support Bluetooth connectivity. Always ensure you use the official Ledger Live app.

Q: What if someone knows my PIN but not the recovery phrase?

A: They might open the device temporarily (if they have physical access), but they can’t restore it to another device without the recovery phrase. It’s advisable to change your PIN if you suspect leakage.

Q: Does Ledger support all cryptocurrencies?

A: Ledger supports thousands of coins and tokens via apps in Ledger Live. For very new or niche assets, you may need to connect Ledger to third-party wallets. Always check support in Ledger’s official lists.

Q: How often should I update firmware?

A: Update whenever Ledger Live notifies you. Firmware updates may include security patches, bug fixes, or compatibility improvements.

Q: Is my recovery phrase safe from hacking?

A: So long as you follow best practices (offline storage, no digital copies, secure backups), it is highly secure. The primary risk comes from phishing, malware, or physical theft of your backup.

Support & Resources

If you need help, explore these official Ledger resources:

Ledger Support Center: ledger.com/support
Ledger official documentation, tutorials, and setup guides
Community forums and trusted crypto communities
Ledger’s security blog — updates on phishing, threats, and best practices
Contact official Ledger support if you suspect compromise or issues

Always verify you are interacting with official channels (URLs ending in ledger.com). Save your recovery phrase in a secure place, keep your device safe, and regularly monitor security announcements from Ledger.