Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® — Getting started*

A concise, user-friendly walkthrough to set up your Ledger device securely and begin managing crypto with Ledger Live.

Overview

Ledger devices provide hardware-level protection for private keys. This guide walks through the core steps: unboxing, initializing, installing Ledger Live, adding accounts, and best security practices. Follow official pages (linked above) and never share your recovery phrase.

Step-by-step setup (quick)

  1. Unbox & check authenticity: Compare the device and packaging with images on Ledger.com/Start. Ensure tamper-evident seals are intact.
  2. Install Ledger Live: Download from Ledger Live. Do not use third-party downloads.
  3. Initialize device: Follow on-screen device prompts to set a PIN and create a recovery phrase. Write the recovery phrase on the provided card — never store it digitally.
  4. Update firmware: Ledger Live will check firmware after connecting. Apply updates only when prompted by official software.
  5. Add crypto accounts: Use Ledger Live to add supported accounts (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Install apps for each coin from Ledger Live.
  6. Backup confirmation: Perform a test transaction with a small amount to confirm everything works.

Security best practices

Recovery phrase (seed)

The 24-word recovery phrase is the single point of failure. Never share it, type it into a website, or store it electronically. Use the official recovery sheet provided and consider metal backup solutions for long-term durability.

Device authenticity & firmware

Only buy Ledger devices from the official shop or authorized resellers. Always verify firmware updates through Ledger Live.

Managing accounts & transactions

Ledger Live acts as the interface for account management. It shows balances, lets you send/receive, and helps install coin apps. For advanced use (DeFi, NFTs) connect Ledger to trusted third-party apps and always verify transaction details on the device screen.

Troubleshooting tips
  • If Ledger Live cannot detect your device, check USB cables and ports or try the desktop app version on another computer.
  • For recovery or device issues, consult Ledger Support.

Advanced: using with third-party wallets

Ledger’s device can be used as a hardware signer for many wallets (MetaMask, WalletConnect, etc.). Always confirm addresses and amounts on the hardware screen before authorizing.

Quick checklist

  • Buy from official source. (Shop)
  • Install Ledger Live from official site. (Ledger Live)
  • Create a PIN and securely store recovery phrase.
  • Apply firmware updates via Ledger Live only.
  • Verify every transaction on the device screen.