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

A concise, polished walkthrough to help new users set up a Ledger hardware wallet safely and confidently. This HTML slide-style presentation includes headings H1–H5 and quick official links for deeper reading.

Overview

What is a Ledger hardware wallet?

Ledger hardware wallets are dedicated devices that store private keys offline. They protect your cryptocurrency by keeping signing operations inside the device, away from connected computers. This guide focuses on the practical first steps: unboxing, initializing, installing Ledger Live, and safeguarding your recovery phrase.

Why use a hardware wallet?

  • Private keys never leave the device.
  • Resistant to malware and remote hacks.
  • Works with dozens of blockchains and thousands of tokens through Ledger Live and compatible apps.
Who is this for?

This walkthrough is for new Ledger users who want a clear, step-by-step setup with security best practices. If you’re transferring large amounts, consider reading advanced security materials linked in the Resources section.

Step-by-step setup

1

Unbox & verify

When you receive your Ledger, verify packaging and tamper-evidence. Official packaging contains the device, a USB cable, recovery sheets, and a quick start guide. Only buy from official channels to reduce the risk of tampering.

Tip:

Register the box serial and keep your purchase receipt for warranty and authenticity checks.

2

Install Ledger Live

Download Ledger Live from the official site and follow the installer. Ledger Live manages accounts, sends/receives crypto, and installs blockchain apps onto your device. Always download software from official sources — not third-party mirrors.

3

Initialize your device

Follow the on-device prompts to set a PIN. The device will generate a recovery phrase (usually 24 words). Write these words on the provided recovery sheet in order and keep them offline and in a safe place.

Warning:

Never store your recovery phrase digitally (photos, cloud, notes). Anyone with these words can control your funds.

4

Add accounts in Ledger Live

Open Ledger Live, add an account for each blockchain you plan to use, and follow the pairing instructions. You may need to update firmware or install blockchain-specific apps on the device.

5

Test with small transfer

Before transferring large amounts, send a small test amount to an address you control to confirm everything works end-to-end.

Security best practices

Keep your recovery phrase safe

Store your recovery words in a secure, offline location. Consider metal backup devices designed to resist fire, water, and corrosion for long-term storage of recovery phrases.

Protect your PIN

Choose a PIN you can remember but that isn’t easily guessed. Ledger devices typically lock and require progressively longer wait times after repeated incorrect PIN attempts.

Beware of phishing

Ledger will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase over email or on a website. If asked, treat it as a scam and report it. Always verify URLs before downloading or connecting your device.

Additional recommendations
  • Use passphrase feature only if you understand the risks and backups required.
  • Keep firmware and Ledger Live up to date using official channels.

Resources & further reading

Below are official Ledger links for setup, troubleshooting, and learning more about secure custody. Bookmark them and consult them when needed.

Ledger — Start (Official) Ledger Live — Download Ledger Support Center Ledger Academy — Learning Ledger — Learn More Ledger Blog Ledger Store — Buy Official Ledger — Security Ledger — Terms & Policies Ledger — Contact

Quick checklist: Unbox → Verify → Install Ledger Live → Initialize device & set PIN → Write recovery phrase offline → Add accounts → Test small transfer → Update & maintain.