Ledger.com/Start - Official Ledger Wallet Setup Guide

What this guide covers

This official setup guide explains the safe, recommended steps to unbox and configure your Ledger hardware wallet, install Ledger Live, create or restore an account, and manage assets securely. It also includes troubleshooting, maintenance tips, and links to official resources. Follow each step carefully — security depends on doing the small things right.

Quick links (official)

Safety checklist

• Buy only from the official Ledger store or authorized resellers.
• Have a clean, offline surface to unbox your device; avoid public Wi‑Fi during setup.
• Prepare paper and a pen for writing your recovery phrase (do not use digital notes).
• Ensure your computer is up-to-date and free of untrusted software.

What’s in the box

Most Ledger devices include the hardware device, a USB cable, a recovery sheet, and a quick-start guide. Check the packaging for tamper indicators and authenticity seals before proceeding.

Download safely

Go to ledger.com/ledger-live and download the official Ledger Live app for your operating system. Avoid third-party download links; verify the URL carefully.

Install and open

1. Run the installer and follow on-screen instructions.
2. Open Ledger Live and follow initial prompts: choose Get started → Set up as new device or Restore device.

Create a new device

1. Power on the device using the supplied USB cable.
2. Choose a PIN directly on the device. Use 4–8 digits you can remember (avoid obvious sequences).
3. The device will display a 24‑word recovery phrase. Write every word exactly as shown on the official recovery sheet provided. Do not take photos or store digitally.
4. Confirm the phrase on the device when prompted.

Why the recovery phrase matters

The 24‑word seed (recovery phrase) is the single backup that recreates your private keys. Anyone who gains it can control your assets. Keep it physically secure, ideally in multiple fireproof locations.

Install crypto apps on the device

Open Ledger Live, go to Manager, and connect your device. Install only the apps for the coins you plan to use (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.).

Add accounts

1. In Ledger Live, go to Accounts → Add account.
2. Select the cryptocurrency and follow the prompts to add the account linked to your device.

Receive

1. In Ledger Live, select the account and click Receive.
2. Connect and unlock your device; verify the address shown on your device matches the address in Ledger Live before sharing.

Send

1. Click Send, enter the destination address and amount.
2. Confirm details on the device display and accept the transaction with the physical buttons.

Common issues

• Device not recognized: try a different USB cable or port; ensure Ledger Live is allowed by your OS firewall.
• App won’t install: update Ledger Live and firmware, then retry from Manager.
• Forgot PIN: you can reset the device, but you must restore from your recovery phrase. See official guide on restoring a device.

Firmware updates

Keep firmware up to date. Official updates appear in Ledger Live. Do not accept firmware prompts from untrusted sources or links sent by others.

Physical safety

• Store the recovery sheet offline in a secure location (safe, deposit box).
• Consider metal backups for fire/water resistance.

Online safety

• Never disclose your recovery phrase to anyone or enter it into a website or app.
• Beware of phishing websites—always check ledger.com and verify TLS certificates when in doubt.

Advanced options

Power users can enable passphrase (25th word) for extra account separation, or use multisig solutions that combine multiple hardware or software keys for higher security.

Can Ledger be used with mobile?

Yes. Ledger Live is available for iOS and Android — see mobile download.

Can Ledger recover from theft?

If your device is stolen but the recovery phrase is safe, you can restore funds to a new device. If both are compromised, funds are unrecoverable.

Are there transaction fees?

Ledger does not charge network fees for transactions — network miners/validators determine fees. Ledger Live will display suggested fees when sending.