Get Started with Confidence at Ledger.com/start

Why choose Ledger?

Ledger makes hardware wallets — small physical devices that store the private keys to your cryptocurrency securely offline. The big advantage is that private keys never leave the device, making them immune to online hacks, phishing and remote malware. If you're new to hardware wallets, think of a Ledger device as a tamper-evident, encrypted vault for your crypto.

Security-first design (overview)

Ledger devices use a secure element and a separate operating environment for signing transactions. That layered architecture reduces the attack surface compared to software-only wallets. Combined with a recovery phrase (seed) and optional passphrase, it allows you to build strong defenses while retaining control over your funds.

What this guide covers

• Preparing for the setup and buying genuine Ledger hardware.
• A clear, step-by-step setup path you can follow at Ledger.com/start.
• How to use Ledger Live: adding apps and accounts, sending and receiving.
• Key security practices, recovery phrase handling, and common troubleshooting.

Who should use this guide

Beginners who purchased a Ledger hardware wallet, users migrating funds from exchanges, and anyone who wants a thorough security checklist before moving substantial balances off-custody.

Before you begin — what to prepare

Buy genuine hardware from an official source

Only purchase Ledger devices from the official Ledger store or authorized resellers. Devices purchased from marketplaces or second-hand sellers may be tampered with. Keep the box sealed until you start the setup.

Checklist

• Genuine Ledger device (model: Nano S Plus, Nano X, etc.).
• Computer or mobile device with the latest OS updates.
• USB cable or Bluetooth-capable phone (depending on model).
• Secure, private place to write down your recovery phrase.
• A basic understanding of the crypto assets you'll manage (addresses, confirmations).

Minimal time estimate

Plan at least 20–40 minutes for your first setup and initial sync with Ledger Live. Don’t rush: the security steps are worth the extra time.

Step-by-step setup at Ledger.com/start

1 — Visit the official start page

Open your browser and go to https://www.ledger.com/start. The official start page will guide you to download Ledger Live (desktop or mobile) and show model-specific setup instructions. Follow the onscreen prompts and always make sure your browser shows the secure padlock icon to confirm you're on the right domain.

2 — Unbox and power on

Carefully unbox your device. Power it on using the supplied cable or follow the Bluetooth pairing instructions for mobile. The device will show a welcome animation and ask to create a new wallet or restore an existing one.

Create a new device

1. Choose “Set up as new device” on the device screen.
2. Create a PIN code directly on the device — choose a PIN you can remember but is not trivial (avoid 1234, dates, repeated digits).
3. The device will generate a recovery phrase (24 words by default for most Ledger devices).

Write down your recovery phrase carefully

Write the words on the supplied recovery sheet or another secure, offline medium. The order matters. Never store your recovery phrase digitally (no photos, screenshots, cloud notes, or email). Anyone with access to these words can steal your funds.

3 — Install Ledger Live

Download and install Ledger Live from the official site reached via Ledger.com/start. Ledger Live is the companion app for managing accounts, installing coin apps on the device, and sending/receiving crypto.

// Example (desktop)
1. Download Ledger Live for your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux).
2. Install and open the app.
3. Follow "Set up as new device" and confirm the PIN on the hardware device.
4. Continue with "Install apps" and add the coins you need.

4 — Add accounts

In Ledger Live, go to Accounts → Add account, choose the cryptocurrency, and follow prompts. Ledger Live will derive addresses from your hardware device — verify addresses on the device screen before sending funds.

Verify addresses on-device

Never trust an address shown only in software. When receiving funds, always verify that the receive address is displayed and confirmed on your Ledger device screen.

Using Ledger Live: apps, accounts, transactions

Apps vs Accounts

Ledger devices use coin-specific apps (small programs installed on device storage) to interact with different blockchains. Ledger Live shows your accounts and balances once the relevant app is installed and the device is connected.

Install only what you need

Device storage is limited on some models. Install only the coin apps you actively need. You can uninstall and reinstall apps without affecting your accounts or funds — all your private keys remain safe in the secure element.

Sending and receiving securely

• To receive: generate a receive address in Ledger Live and verify it on your device.
• To send: create a transaction in Ledger Live, then confirm the details (amount, fees, destination) on the device screen before approving.

Check transaction fees and confirmations

Choose appropriate fees depending on network congestion. Ledger Live shows recommended fees and estimated confirmation times for many chains. For large transfers, consider first sending a small test amount.

Third-party dApps and integrations

Ledger works with many wallets and dApps via integrations (e.g., MetaMask, DeFi platforms). When connecting Ledger to a third-party app, you still sign transactions on the Ledger device — compatibility and correct contract interactions remain your responsibility. Always verify the transaction details on-device.

Security best practices & recovery

Never share your recovery phrase

Ledger staff or any trustworthy service will never ask for your recovery phrase. If someone asks, treat it as a direct attempt to steal your funds. Your recovery phrase is the ultimate backup — protect it like a bank vault key.

Where to store your recovery phrase

• Write it on the supplied recovery card and store in a safe or lockbox.
• Consider steel backup solutions (metal plates) for fire/water resistance.
• Distribute redundant backups in physically separate, trusted places if managing very large custody (but beware of increased exposure).

Using a passphrase (advanced)

A passphrase acts as a 25th word. It allows creating hidden wallets but introduces complexities: if you lose the passphrase, your assets in that hidden wallet are irrecoverable. Use it only if you understand the trade-offs and keep the passphrase safe and memorable (or stored securely offline).

Recovering a wallet

If your device is lost or broken, you can restore your wallet on a new Ledger device (or compatible wallet supporting the same seed standard) using the recovery phrase. Always confirm you're restoring to a legitimate device, and never enter your recovery phrase into a computer or online form.

Troubleshooting — common issues and fixes

Device not recognized by Ledger Live

• Try a different USB cable or port; use the original cable when possible.
• Ensure the device is unlocked (enter the PIN) before connecting.
• Update Ledger Live to the latest version and check for firmware updates via the app.

Ledger Live sync errors or balances not updating

Check network status for the specific blockchain (sometimes nodes are temporarily slow). Try re-syncing the account or removing and re-adding the account in Ledger Live (this does not affect your funds).

Lost or damaged recovery sheet

If you lose the recovery phrase and still have the device and it’s accessible, immediately transfer funds to a new wallet with a newly generated recovery phrase. If both device and phrase are lost, funds are unrecoverable.

Advanced tips: firmware, passphrase, multiple accounts

Keep firmware updated

Ledger periodically releases firmware updates that improve compatibility and security. Update firmware only through Ledger Live and follow on-screen instructions carefully. Firmware updates may require you to reconnect and confirm actions on the device.

Multiple accounts & derivation paths

Ledger supports multiple accounts for many chains. When dealing with non-standard derivation paths or custom wallets, document your settings carefully. If using external tools, double-check the derived addresses match those in Ledger Live.

Working with multisig and advanced setups

Ledger devices can be part of multisig setups via supported software. Multisig increases resilience against single-point failures but adds complexity — test with small amounts first and maintain clear recovery procedures for all cosigners.

FAQs and final checklist

FAQ: Can Ledger lose my funds?

Ledger cannot access or move your funds; it only stores keys. Funds live on blockchains. If you keep your recovery phrase secure and maintain device integrity, your funds remain under your control.

FAQ: Is Ledger Live required?

Ledger Live is recommended for ease of use and official support. However, you can interact with blockchains using other wallets (e.g., MetaMask, Electrum) while keeping keys on the Ledger device — as long as the wallet supports hardware signing.

Final checklist before moving funds

• Have you written down your recovery phrase and stored it offline?
• Is your device purchased from an official source and unsealed?
• Did you verify addresses on-device before sending/receiving?
• Is your Ledger Live up-to-date and synced?
• Have you tested with a small transfer first?

If the answers are all yes, you're ready to move funds from exchanges or hot wallets into your Ledger-secured accounts with confidence.