Getting started with Ledger — quick overview

This guide walks you through setting up a Ledger hardware wallet (Model Nano S / Nano X / newer) and Ledger Live. Follow each step carefully — hardware wallets protect your private keys by keeping them offline.

What is Ledger & Ledger Live?

Ledger hardware wallets store your private keys on a secure chip. Ledger Live is the companion app (desktop & mobile) used to manage accounts, send/receive crypto, and install app support for different blockchains. The recommended start page is ledger.com/start.

Step-by-step setup (5 minutes)

1

Unbox & verify — Confirm the package seal and authenticity. Use only devices purchased from official channels.

2

Connect device — Plug your Ledger into your computer or pair via Bluetooth (if supported). Visit ledger.com/start for official downloads.

3

Install Ledger Live — Download the desktop or mobile app and follow the on-screen installer. Create or restore a wallet inside Ledger Live.

4

Create your PIN & recovery phrase — The device generates a recovery phrase (24 words). Write it on the provided recovery card and store offline. Never photograph or share it.

5

Install apps & add accounts — Use Ledger Live Manager to install blockchain apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) and add accounts to manage funds.

Security best practices

Keep your recovery phrase offline. The 24-word seed is the only backup of your funds.
Only use official software. Download Ledger Live and drivers from ledger.com/start; check the URL and SSL lock.
Verify addresses on the device. Always compare the address shown in Ledger Live with the device screen before sending funds.
Beware of phishing. Never enter your recovery phrase into any website or app. Ledger support will never ask for your seed.

Common troubleshooting

If your device isn’t recognized: try a different USB cable/port, ensure Ledger Live is up to date, and reboot your computer. If you forget your PIN, restore the wallet on a new device using your recovery phrase.

FAQ
Q: Can I recover my wallet if the device is lost?
A: Yes — use your recovery phrase on a new Ledger or compatible wallet.
Q: Should I store my recovery phrase digitally?
A: No — storing it on a phone, cloud, or photo increases risk. Use secure offline storage.
Q: Are firmware updates safe?
A: Yes — apply firmware updates through Ledger Live. Verify prompts on your device before confirming.

Next steps

After setup, consider these actions: enable passphrase for extra security (advanced users), explore staking or swap features in Ledger Live, and review app permissions when connecting to third-party dApps.