Ledger.com/start — Quick start guide

A practical, security-first walkthrough to unbox, initialize and use your Ledger hardware device. No fluff — just clear steps and safety tips so you can manage crypto with confidence.

Why a hardware wallet matters

Hardware wallets keep your private keys isolated from the internet. Unlike exchanges or software-only wallets, a Ledger device stores secrets inside a secure chip. That separation drastically reduces the risk of theft from phishing, malware, or compromised computers.

Before you begin

  • Ensure you ordered your device from an official Ledger channel or authorized reseller.
  • Have a clean, offline place to write your recovery phrase — preferably the included recovery sheet or a metal backup if you have one.
  • Do not share your recovery phrase with anyone. Ledger staff will never ask for it.

Step-by-step setup

  1. Unbox and inspect.

    Check the packaging seal. Verify there are no unexpected accessories or damage. Only proceed if packaging looks authentic and tamper-free.

  2. Power on and choose a PIN.

    Follow on-screen prompts to set a PIN of 4–8 digits (or longer if supported). Use a PIN you can remember but don’t write it down with your recovery phrase.

  3. Write your recovery phrase.

    The device will show a 24-word recovery phrase (sometimes 12 for older models). Write each word in order on the official recovery card. Verify each word carefully — this is the only backup of your wallet.

    Do not store the recovery phrase digitally (screenshots, cloud, notes). A physical offline backup is essential.
  4. Confirm the phrase on the device.

    Ledger will ask you to confirm certain words to validate your backup. This ensures the phrase was recorded accurately.

  5. Install Ledger Live on your computer or phone.

    Download Ledger Live from the official site. Connect the device and use Ledger Live to install the required apps for the coins you want to manage (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.).

  6. Create accounts and receive funds.

    In Ledger Live add an account for the currency you choose. Use the 'Receive' flow to get a deposit address and always confirm the address on your device screen before sending funds.

Daily-use safety checklist

  • Always verify receive addresses on the Ledger device screen.
  • Keep firmware up to date — but confirm updates from Ledger Live and the official site before applying.
  • Beware of phishing: only visit ledger.com and verify URLs and SSL certificates in your browser.

Troubleshooting & best practices

If your device does not power, try a different cable and USB port. If you suspect tampering or lost recovery phrase, move funds to a new wallet immediately and generate a fresh recovery phrase using a new device.

Common quick checks:
• Device won't connect: try another USB cable or a different computer.
• Recovery confirmation fails: ensure words are spelled exactly and in order.
• Firmware update stuck: contact official Ledger support and avoid third-party 'fixes'.

Advanced tips for long-term safety

  • Use a metal seed backup if you plan long-term storage — metal resists fire, water, and time better than paper.
  • Consider a passphrase (25th word) only if you understand its implications — losing the passphrase can permanently lock funds.
  • Keep a small test transfer first when sending to a new address to confirm everything works as expected.

Need more? Visit ledger.com/start for official downloads, firmware notices, and full device documentation. Remember: Ledger staff will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase.