LLEDGER.START GUIDE Official Ledger start

YOUR FIRST STEPS, MADE CLEAR

A more confident
way to get started.

Set up your Ledger device, understand the essentials, and build safer habits from day one. Your keys. Your responsibility. A little preparation goes a long way.

Explore the setup guide Start with security
Security-first guidance, with links to official Ledger resources.
Illustration of a hardware wallet beside a smartphone
YOUR DEVICE, YOUR CONTROL
Keep it offlineYour recovery phrase stays private

Important security reminder Ledger will never ask you to share your recovery phrase or PIN. Keep both secret, always.

Read the safety checklist

THE ESSENTIALS

Your setup, step by step.

Take your time. Follow instructions shown on your own device, and verify important actions directly on its screen.

01

Get Ledger Wallet™

Download Ledger’s companion app only from the official Ledger website or your device’s trusted app store. Check the publisher before installing.

Visit Ledger Live
02

Connect and update

Power on your Ledger device and follow the on-screen prompts. Connect it to Ledger Wallet and install any available firmware updates using the official app.

03

Set up your recovery phrase

Create a new wallet on the device and write the recovery phrase on the supplied recovery sheet. Verify each word on the device screen and store it offline.

04

Add accounts securely

Use the app to add the crypto accounts you need. Confirm receiving addresses on your Ledger device screen before sharing or sending funds.

ⓘ

Device menus and app screens can vary by model and software version. For exact, up-to-date instructions, use Ledger Support .

SECURITY STARTS WITH YOU

Protect your keys.
Protect your assets.

Your recovery phrase is the master backup to your wallet. Anyone who gets it can control your assets, so treat it like the keys to your home.

Explore Ledger Academy

Your security checklist

  • Write it down offline. Keep your recovery phrase on paper or a suitable offline backup—not in a photo or cloud account.
  • Never share it. Ledger support, legitimate apps, and trusted people will never need your phrase or PIN.
  • Trust your device screen. Verify addresses and transaction details on the hardware wallet before approving.
  • Check every URL. Navigate directly to official Ledger channels; be wary of ads, DMs, and urgent messages.

Stop if asked for your phrase. Close the page or message. Never enter it into a website or app.

Explore Ledger Wallet

GOOD TO KNOW

Questions, answered.

Clear answers to a few common questions before you begin.

Visit official support
What is Ledger Wallet?+

Ledger Wallet (formerly Ledger Live) is Ledger’s companion application for managing accounts and connecting to supported services. Your private keys remain protected by your Ledger hardware device.

Where should I store my recovery phrase?+

Keep the phrase offline in a private, secure place. Never photograph it, store it in cloud notes, type it into a website or share it with anyone—including someone claiming to be support.

Does Ledger support need my recovery phrase?+

No. Ledger support will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase or PIN. Anyone asking for these details is attempting to gain access to your assets.

What if my device is lost or damaged?+

A replacement device can restore access using your recovery phrase. This is why keeping the phrase private and safely stored is essential. If you believe it has been exposed, consult Ledger’s official support guidance immediately.

READY WHEN YOU ARE

Make your first move
a safe one.

For device-specific setup steps, go straight to Ledger’s official getting-started page.

Go to Ledger.com/start