Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start®

Getting started — complete guide

This guide is written to take you from opening a brand new device to confidently receiving, storing, and sending crypto assets. It is intentionally practical and avoids jargon. If you just received a Ledger device, follow these sections in order. If you already completed a few steps, feel free to jump to the linked sections below.

1. Unboxing and first checks

When you open your package, verify the seals and packaging. Ledger devices are shipped with tamper-evident seals. If anything looks altered, contact support immediately. The box should include the hardware device, a USB cable (or USB-C depending on model), a recovery sheet, and documentation. Keep the packaging for warranty and proof of purchase. Learn more at the official start page: Ledger.com/Start®.

2. Powering the device and creating a PIN

Power the device by connecting it to your computer or mobile device. The device's screen will guide you through choosing a PIN. Pick a PIN that you can remember but that is not easily guessable (avoid birthdates, repeated numbers, sequences). If you forget the PIN and still have your recovery phrase, you can restore to a new device; without the recovery phrase the funds are unrecoverable.

3. The recovery phrase — your single most important backup

During initialization the device will display a recovery phrase (typically 24 words). Carefully write the words in order on the supplied recovery sheet — do not store them digitally or take a picture. This phrase can be used to recover your wallet on any compatible hardware or software wallet. Store the recovery sheet in a secure place (ideally a fire- and water-resistant safe). You may also consider geographic redundancy: split the phrase or use trusted custody solutions. Never share the recovery phrase; no legitimate support agent will ever ask you for it. For more information on backing up, see the Security section below and the official backup guidance at Ledger Support.

4. Install Ledger Live

Download Ledger Live from the official source: Download Ledger Live or the official page at Ledger.com/Start®. Ledger Live is the desktop and mobile application that lets you install apps on your device, create and manage accounts, and send/receive assets. Install the app for your platform and follow the setup wizard. When prompted, connect your hardware device and follow the on-screen prompts to add accounts.

5. Adding accounts

Inside Ledger Live you can install individual cryptocurrency apps (for example, Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana) on your device and add accounts. Each account represents an address set on the blockchain that you can use to receive funds. Adding an account in Ledger Live will not expose your private keys — they remain secure inside your hardware device. Use the account receive function to display an address on both Ledger Live and your hardware device to confirm it matches before sending funds.

6. Sending and receiving crypto

To receive crypto, copy the address from Ledger Live and confirm it on the device screen. To send crypto, create a transaction in Ledger Live, then confirm the details on your device. Always check the address shown on the hardware device and confirm the amount and fee before approving.

7. Firmware & updates

Ledger devices occasionally receive firmware updates that improve security and add features. Use Ledger Live to check and apply firmware updates. Only perform updates using the official Ledger Live application. If you ever see prompts to update firmware from a website other than the official one, do not proceed and contact support.

8. Security best practices

Security is the essence of ownership in crypto. A few practical rules: never share your recovery phrase, never install apps from unknown sources, verify download links (use Ledger.com/Start® or the official support site), enable two-factor authentication for exchanges and email accounts, and consider using a separate dedicated computer for high-value operations. For advanced users, consider using passphrases and multi-device setups for additional redundancy. Always verify addresses on the device screen, do not rely solely on the companion app's preview.

9. Troubleshooting

If your device behaves unexpectedly (screen freezes, wonky behavior), first disconnect and reconnect the device. Reboot your host device, ensure Ledger Live is updated, and attempt the operation again. If problems persist, contact the official support channels. Do not disclose your recovery phrase to anyone claiming to be support; genuine support will never request it.

10. Helpful resources

Below are quick links to common resources:

We intentionally included many links so you can quickly jump to the official pages you need. Use only those official pages for downloads and support. If you use third-party wallet software with your seed, ensure it is reputable and open-source where possible.

Closing notes

Owning your crypto means taking responsibility for securing your private keys. Ledger devices make holding keys safer by keeping them offline, but the human element (PINs, recovery phrase storage) remains critical. Follow the steps in this guide, store backups responsibly, and keep software up-to-date. If you'd like a trimmed printable checklist, use the print option in your browser or click the Download Ledger Live link for official documentation and resources.

This page is an informational landing page and guide designed to accompany the official onboarding flow available at Ledger.com/Start®. For official support and downloads always use the links above or visit Ledger.com/Start®.