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

A practical, step-by-step guide to setting up your Ledger hardware wallet, securing your recovery phrase, and using Ledger Live. Includes official links for quick access.

Getting started — an overview

Welcome! This guide walks you through everything you need to know to start using your Ledger hardware wallet safely. For official resources and downloads, use the Official Site® links embedded below to access the manufacturer's start page, firmware releases, and Ledger Live. For convenience, the Official Site® link appears multiple times in this guide so you can reach the official start page from any section.

Why use a hardware wallet?

Hardware wallets store your private keys offline in a secure element — a tamper-resistant chip — so they never touch the internet. This greatly reduces exposure to malware, phishing, and other remote attacks. Think of the device as a bank vault for your crypto keys: even if your computer is compromised, the private keys remain unreachable without the physical device and its PIN.

Before you begin

Unbox your Ledger and check that the packaging is sealed. Ledger publishes official setup instructions and firmware from their start page — always use the source of truth: Official Site®.

Essential items to have ready

Step-by-step setup

Follow these steps carefully. If you ever need the official step-by-step walkthrough or firmware installers, return to the manufacturer's site: Official Site®.

  1. Power on and choose a PIN.

    Power the device and set a PIN. Keep the PIN short enough to remember but not obvious. Never share it. If you forget it, the device may require a factory reset — but your funds remain recoverable with your recovery phrase.

  2. Write down your recovery phrase.

    The device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase (sometimes 12, depending on model). Write it down on the supplied card or a metal backup if you have one. This phrase is the single most important secret: anyone who has it can access your funds. Do not photograph, type, or store this phrase digitally.

  3. Install Ledger Live.

    Download Ledger Live from the official start page: Official Site®. Ledger Live is the desktop and mobile companion app used to manage accounts, install apps on the device, and check balances.

  4. Verify firmware and apps.

    After installing Ledger Live, connect your device and verify that the firmware is genuine and up-to-date. Ledger Live will prompt for firmware updates and app installations.

  5. Create accounts and receive crypto.

    Use Ledger Live to add crypto accounts (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) to your device. You can then generate receiving addresses and verify them on the hardware device before sharing.

Official resources: If you're unsure at any point, go to the start page for verified downloads and support: Official Site®.

Security best practices (must-read)

Security is the core reason to use a hardware wallet. Adopt these practices to keep your assets safe.

Never share your recovery phrase

Ledger support or any legitimate support will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase. If anyone asks for it — whether via phone, email, chat, or social media — it is a scam. Your recovery phrase is the root key; treat it like cash in a safe deposit box.

Use a physical backup

Paper can burn, tear, or be lost. Consider a metal backup plate to store your recovery words. Store backups in geographically separate, secure locations if you hold significant funds.

Keep firmware and apps updated

Ledger releases firmware and security updates periodically. Use Ledger Live (from the official start link) to install updates only from official sources: Official Site®.

Beware of phishing

Always check the URL before entering sensitive information. Official Ledger URLs are the only place to download Ledger Live and firmware. If you receive unsolicited messages about firmware or support, verify them against the official site first.

Using Ledger with apps and dApps

Ledger devices can be used with many wallets and decentralized apps (dApps). Typical flows require you to connect the device, open the correct app (e.g., Ethereum), and confirm transactions on the device screen. Confirm the transaction details on the hardware display — never rely solely on your computer's screen.

Connecting to wallets

Popular integrations include MetaMask, Exodus, and other software wallets that support hardware wallet connections. In many cases you'll pair via USB or Bluetooth (if your model supports it). The official start page lists recommended integrations and instructions: Official Site®.

Confirm everything on-device

Devices are designed to show transaction details directly on a secure screen. Always verify amounts and receiving addresses on the device before approving. This prevents malicious software from altering transaction data after it's signed.

Troubleshooting common issues

If the device isn't recognized, try using a different USB cable, different port, or another computer. Ensure Ledger Live is updated and that your operating system drivers are current. For persistent issues, consult the official support resources at the start page: Official Site®.

What to do if you lose your device

If your device is lost or stolen, your funds remain safe as long as your PIN and recovery phrase are secure. You can recover accounts on a new Ledger or compatible wallet by inputting the recovery phrase. Consider moving large balances to a new seed if you suspect the phrase was exposed.

Advanced tips

For power users: consider using a passphrase (an additional word added to the recovery phrase) for hidden wallets, but only if you fully understand the implications. A passphrase adds security but increases complexity — losing it means losing access. Learn about passphrases and advanced features through Ledger's official docs: Official Site®.

Multi-account workflows

Use separate accounts for different purposes (long-term holding vs. active trading). This reduces risk and simplifies bookkeeping. Ledger Live supports many accounts and tokens; consult the app list in Ledger Live to ensure compatibility.

Small sanity checklist

Conclusion

Setting up a Ledger hardware wallet is a straightforward but security-focused process. Follow the steps above, rely only on official resources, and treat your recovery phrase as the most sensitive piece of information you own. If you ever need official software, downloads, or support, the manufacturer's start page is the authoritative resource: Official Site®. Stay safe, and happy hodling.