Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® — Official Getting Started Guide

Simple, secure steps to set up your Ledger hardware wallet and manage crypto safely.

Welcome — What this guide covers

This official getting started guide walks you through setting up your Ledger device (Nano S / Nano X / Stax), installing Ledger Live, creating a secure backup, and safely interacting with crypto apps and DeFi. Follow each step carefully — security starts with the first action you take.

Before you begin

What you'll need
  • A genuine Ledger device purchased from the official store or an authorized reseller.
  • A computer (Windows / macOS / Linux) or smartphone (iOS / Android) with internet access.
  • A USB-C / USB-A cable (included) or Bluetooth for compatible models.
  • A private, offline place to write down your recovery phrase.

Important: Do not plug your Ledger into a device until you are ready to follow the setup steps below. If you received a device pre-initialized or with packaging tampered, return it and contact support.

Step 1 — Initialize your Ledger device

  1. Power on your Ledger device by pressing the hardware button(s).
  2. Choose Set up as new device when prompted.
  3. Create a PIN code — choose something memorable but not guessable. Never store your PIN with your recovery phrase.
  4. Your Ledger will display a 24-word recovery phrase. Carefully write each word in order on the provided recovery card. Never take a screenshot or store the phrase digitally.
  5. Confirm the words on the device when asked.

Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase. Do not share it with anyone or enter it into websites or apps.

Step 2 — Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile application to manage apps, accounts, and transactions. Download Ledger Live only from the official site or your device's app store.

  1. Visit the official download page or open your app store.
  2. Install the app and open it.
  3. Follow the in-app flow: choose Initialize as new device and connect your Ledger with the cable or Bluetooth (Nano X).
  4. Allow the app to install the cryptocurrency apps you want to use (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.).

Ledger Live handles account creation and balance display — transactions still require confirmation on your physical device.

Install Ledger Live

Step 3 — Add accounts & manage apps

  1. Open Ledger Live and go to Accounts → Add account.
  2. Select the currency (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) and follow the prompts to add accounts.
  3. Install or remove apps on the device from the Manager tab as needed — each crypto uses a small app on the device.

You can use Ledger with third-party apps (MetaMask, DeFi dapps). When doing so, always confirm transaction details on the Ledger device screen.

Security best practices

  • Never share your 24-word recovery phrase. Recovery phrases are intended to be stored offline only.
  • Keep your recovery phrase in a secure location — consider steel seed storage for added protection.
  • Verify device firmware updates only through Ledger Live.
  • Beware of phishing sites — always check the URL and bookmark Ledger Live or the official site.
  • Use a passphrase (advanced) only if you understand how it affects recovery and backups.

If you suspect your recovery phrase was compromised, move funds to a new wallet with a new seed immediately.

Troubleshooting

  1. Device not recognized: try a different USB cable or port, update Ledger Live, and ensure your OS trusts the device.
  2. Firmware update failed: follow Ledger Live instructions carefully; try on another computer if needed.
  3. Lost recovery phrase: If lost and device is still accessible, create a new wallet and transfer funds. If both lost, funds cannot be recovered.

For persistent problems, contact official support and provide only safe, non-sensitive diagnostic info.

FAQ

Is Ledger free to use?
Ledger Live is free to download. Hardware devices have a one-time purchase cost. Network fees still apply when sending transactions.
What is the recovery phrase?
A 24-word seed generated by your device that can restore your wallet on compatible hardware/software.
Can Ledger be hacked?
Ledger devices isolate private keys in secure hardware. Social engineering or compromised recovery phrases are the most common attack vectors.
Where can I get help?
Visit the official support center or community forums. Never share your recovery phrase with support — they don't need it.

© Ledger.com/Start® — This guide is a general overview. For device-specific instructions, refer to your product manual and official Ledger Live documentation.