Get started with Ledger

A step-by-step, security-first guide to set up your Ledger hardware wallet and Ledger Live safely.

Quick start — what you'll need

1. Unbox and verify

Only use the device and accessories that arrived sealed in the official Ledger package. Check the tamper-evident seals. Do not use a device that shows evidence of tampering. If anything looks off, contact support immediately.

2. Download Ledger Live

Download Ledger Live on your desktop or mobile from the official Ledger website. Ledger Live is the companion app that lets you manage apps, accounts, and transactions.

  • Windows, Mac, and Linux are supported on desktop.
  • Android and iOS apps are available for mobile management.
Download Ledger Live

3. Initialize your device

Follow the on-device instructions to choose a PIN and generate a recovery phrase. This is a crucial step — the recovery phrase is the only backup of your private keys. Write it down on the provided recovery sheet. Never store it digitally or photograph it.

  • Choose a PIN you can remember but others won't guess.
  • Write the 24-word recovery phrase in order and keep it safe.

4. Install apps and add accounts

Open Ledger Live and use the Manager to install the apps for the blockchains you want to use (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Then add accounts in Ledger Live — each account reflects an on-chain address controlled by your Ledger's private keys.

5. Receive and verify transactions

Always verify the receiving address on the device screen before accepting incoming or sending transactions. The hardware wallet’s screen is the single source of truth for addresses and transaction details.

Security essentials

Keep these rules

  • Never share your recovery phrase. Ledger staff or support will never ask for it.
  • Store your recovery phrase offline in at least two separate secure locations.
  • Use genuine Ledger products bought from official channels to avoid counterfeit devices.
  • Enable device passphrase (optional) for an extra layer of protection — understand how it works before enabling.

Troubleshooting & tips

Common situations

If you lose your device, your funds are not lost as long as you have your recovery phrase. If you suspect compromise, move funds to a new wallet after restoring the recovery phrase on a new device.

For advanced users, consider using a metal seed storage solution to protect your recovery phrase from fire and water damage.

Ledger hardware wallets provide a secure, offline way to hold your private keys. This guide is an introduction — take time to read the full security documentation in Ledger Live and on the official site.