Ledger.com/start — Official Getting Started Guide

A clear, step-by-step walkthrough to set up your Ledger hardware wallet, install Ledger Live, secure your recovery phrase, and start managing assets confidently.

1. Prepare — what to expect

When your Ledger device arrives, inspect the packaging for tamper evidence. Genuine Ledger devices come in sealed boxes and include a small recovery sheet. This guide is written for new users and covers all essential steps from unboxing to first transaction.

What you will need

A computer (Windows/macOS/Linux) or compatible mobile phone.
An internet connection to download Ledger Live from the official source.
Your Ledger device (Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, or similar).

Important: use the official link

Always download Ledger Live only from the official start page: https://ledger.com/start. Bookmark it and verify the URL before downloading.

2. Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the companion app for your Ledger device. It manages apps, accounts and transactions. Use the official site only — never third-party or unexpectedly linked installers.

Steps to install

Open your browser and go to https://ledger.com/start.
Choose your device model and download the Ledger Live installer for your operating system.
Run the installer and follow on-screen prompts to complete installation.

Troubleshooting the installer

If your OS blocks the installer, check system security settings and make sure the download came from ledger.com. If uncertain, cancel and re-download from the official start page.

3. Set up your Ledger device

Setting up your Ledger involves creating a PIN, generating a recovery phrase, and verifying your device. Follow the on-device prompts carefully.

Create a PIN

Choose a PIN you will remember but do not store it digitally. The device will ask for the PIN to unlock and approve operations.

Write down your recovery phrase

This step is the most critical. Your recovery phrase (24 words for most Ledger models) is the only backup of your private keys. Write it on the recovery sheet provided — never take a photo, screenshot, or store it on a cloud drive.

Verification

The device will ask you to confirm several words from the phrase. This ensures the phrase is properly recorded and guarded.

Never share your recovery phrase

Ledger support will never ask for your phrase. If anyone does, it is a scam. Keep the phrase offline and physically secure.

4. Manage accounts with Ledger Live

After setup, open Ledger Live and connect your device. Install the apps for the blockchains you use (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) via the Manager in Ledger Live.

Adding accounts

From Ledger Live, click “Add account,” choose the currency, follow the prompts and approve actions on your device to link an account for that blockchain.

Sending and receiving

When receiving funds, always verify the address shown in Ledger Live matches the address on your device screen before confirming. For sending, confirm transaction details on the device.

Regular checks

Keep Ledger Live and the device firmware up to date. Ledger Live will notify you of updates; apply them promptly but only when you started the action from Ledger Live and the official site.

5. Safety best practices

Protect your recovery phrase

Store it offline in multiple secure locations if needed (e.g., safe deposit box).
Consider a metal seed storage for fire/water protection.
Never share it with any person or enter it online.

Beware of phishing

Scammers create fake websites and emails. Always type https://ledger.com/start into your address bar when downloading Ledger Live and never follow random links promising “support” to retrieve your assets.

Official contacts

Use official Ledger channels for support: links and documentation originate from ledger.com. Ledger support will never ask for your seed phrase or PIN.

6. Quick FAQ & Troubleshooting

What if I lose my device?

If you lose your Ledger, use your recovery phrase on a new compatible device to restore your accounts. This is why the phrase must be secure.

Device not recognized?

Try a different USB cable/port, ensure Ledger Live is up to date, and that the device shows the correct app screen when connected. Reboot your computer if necessary.

When to contact support

Contact Ledger support when you have hardware issues that cannot be resolved with standard troubleshooting — always through the official channels listed at https://ledger.com/start.