Ledger.com/start — Get Started with your Ledger Wallet
Ledger.com/start — Get Started with your Ledger Wallet
A clear, step-by-step guide to set up, secure, and use your Ledger hardware wallet so you can safely manage crypto assets.
What is a Ledger hardware wallet?
A Ledger hardware wallet is a small, secure device that stores the private keys required to control your cryptocurrency. Unlike software wallets that live on internet-connected devices, a hardware wallet keeps keys offline (sometimes called “cold storage”), dramatically reducing the risk of remote theft. Ledger devices — such as the Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X — pair with Ledger Live (their companion app) to let you manage accounts, send/receive crypto, and install blockchain apps.
Before you begin — essentials to have ready
Your boxed Ledger device and its USB cable (or Bluetooth for Nano X).
A computer or mobile phone that meets Ledger Live requirements (see Ledger Live app store listing or official site for current compatibility).
A secure, quiet place to write down the recovery phrase (12–24 words depending on device) — do not store this digitally.
A pen and the recovery sheet that comes with your device (or a separate metal backup if you prefer more durable storage).
Important: Never share your recovery phrase. Ledger Support or any legitimate service will never ask for it.
Step 1 — Unbox and verify your device
When you first receive your Ledger device, check the box for tamper evidence. Ledger packages usually include the device, a USB cable, a keychain or lanyard, and recovery sheets. Power the device up by connecting it to your computer or phone and confirm the startup screen and model match your expected device.
Security tip: Only purchase hardware wallets from the official Ledger store or authorized resellers. If the packaging seems opened, tampered with, or the device behaves strangely, do not continue.
Step 2 — Download Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the companion application for installing blockchain apps, managing accounts, and performing transactions. Download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website and install it on your desktop or mobile device. Always verify you’re on the official site before downloading.
Open the official Ledger site and locate Ledger Live.
Download the correct installer for your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux) or mobile app from an official app store.
Install and launch Ledger Live, then follow the on-screen prompts to begin setup.
Step 3 — Initialize your Ledger device
Ledger devices will ask whether you want to set up as a new device or restore from a recovery phrase. Choose setup as new (unless you’re restoring an existing wallet).
Choose a PIN: create a PIN you’ll remember. The PIN protects access to the device and is entered on the device itself, not on your computer.
Write down the recovery phrase: the device will display a series of words (the recovery phrase). Carefully write the words in order on the recovery sheet. Confirm the words when prompted.
Complete setup and confirm the device returns to the main dashboard.
The recovery phrase is the master key to your funds. If you lose the device, anyone with the phrase can restore your funds. Store it offline, in a safe place — consider a fireproof, waterproof metal backup.
Step 4 — Install apps and add accounts in Ledger Live
Ledger uses small blockchain-specific apps to interact with each cryptocurrency. Ledger Live makes it easy to install those apps.
Open Ledger Live → Go to the Manager tab and connect your device.
Install the apps you need (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana). Each app uses device memory; uninstalling an app does not delete your crypto — your accounts remain recoverable via your recovery phrase.
After installing apps, go to Accounts → Add account and follow the steps to create or sync accounts for each supported coin.
Step 5 — Sending and receiving crypto
Once accounts are added in Ledger Live, you can receive and send funds. Always verify addresses on the hardware device screen — that ensures the address hasn’t been tampered with by malware on your computer.
To receive: In Ledger Live, choose the account → Receive → verify the address shown on Ledger Live matches the address displayed on your device. Use that address to transfer funds.
To send: In Ledger Live, choose the account → Send → paste recipient address → verify details → confirm the transaction on your Ledger device.
Address verification on-screen is a core security feature: always confirm the full address on the device before sending or accepting funds.
Step 6 — Keep firmware & software updated
Ledger releases firmware updates that improve security and add features. Keep Ledger Live updated and apply firmware updates when prompted. Firmware updates require you to confirm the update on your device; follow on-screen instructions carefully.
Do not install firmware files from third-party sources. Only use Ledger Live’s built-in update process and only when connected to the official Ledger servers.
Safety & best practices
Never enter your recovery phrase on a computer, phone, or website — the phrase belongs only on your Ledger device and on your physical backup.
Never share screenshots, photos, or text copies of your recovery phrase.
Use a strong PIN and never reuse it across devices or accounts.
Consider a secondary secure backup (e.g., metal backup) to guard against fire, water, or physical damage.
Beware of phishing: always verify that the Ledger Live app and Ledger website URLs are correct before entering any information or connecting your device.
Troubleshooting common issues
Device not recognized by Ledger Live
Try a different USB port/cable, ensure you allowed the device to connect, and restart Ledger Live. If using a mobile device, confirm Bluetooth permission (for Nano X).
Forgot PIN
If you forget the PIN, you’ll need to reset the device and restore from your recovery phrase. This is why secure backup of the recovery phrase is essential. A reset without a recovery phrase means permanent loss of access to funds.
Suspicious messages asking for recovery phrase
Immediately stop and assume it’s a phishing attempt. Ledger Support will never ask you for your recovery phrase. If in doubt, consult Ledger’s official support channels directly.
Advanced tips
Use passphrase feature (advanced): Ledger supports an optional passphrase that acts as an extension to your recovery phrase, creating a hidden wallet. This is powerful but risky — losing the passphrase means losing access to that hidden wallet. Only use if you fully understand the implications.
Multi-account organization: Create separate accounts for different purposes (savings, trading, staking) to keep funds organized.
Watch-only wallets: You can add accounts to display balances without connecting a device — useful for monitoring.
Wrapping up
Setting up a Ledger wallet takes a few careful steps: initialize the device, securely record the recovery phrase, install needed apps via Ledger Live, and always verify addresses on the hardware device before transactions. The extra care you take during setup and usage is the best defense against loss or theft of crypto assets.
1. What is the recovery phrase and why is it important?
The recovery phrase is a human-readable list of words (usually 12, 18 or 24) that represent the private keys to your crypto. If your device is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can restore your wallets on a new Ledger (or compatible) device using this phrase. Anyone with the phrase can access your funds, so store it offline and securely.
2. Can I install/remove apps on my Ledger without losing funds?
Yes. Installing and removing apps on the device only changes the small application software used to display and sign transactions. Your private keys are derived from your recovery phrase and remain intact. If you reinstall an app and add the account in Ledger Live, your funds will reappear.
3. What happens if I forget my PIN?
If you forget the PIN, you must reset the device to factory settings and then restore accounts using your recovery phrase. Without the recovery phrase, the funds are inaccessible. This is why safeguarding your recovery phrase is critical.
4. Is it safe to buy a used Ledger device?
Buying a used device is risky. A previously configured device could have been tampered with or already set up with a known recovery phrase. It's recommended to buy new from the official Ledger store or an authorized reseller and verify packaging integrity.
5. Can Ledger protect me from scams or bad investment decisions?
Ledger protects the private keys that control access to your crypto, but it cannot protect you from social engineering, phishing, or poor investment choices. Always verify links, never share your recovery phrase, and double-check transaction details. If a service asks for your recovery phrase or private keys, it’s a scam.