Ledger Start — Official Getting Started Guide
Welcome to Ledger Start, the official getting started guide for using your Ledger hardware wallet. This guide walks you step-by-step from unboxing to making your first secure transaction. Follow each section carefully, and keep your recovery phrase private and offline — it is the only backup for your assets.
Unboxing and first inspection:
Open the box and check the device model and packaging seal. Inspect for physical damage and verify the accessories include the USB-C cable, recovery sheet, and Quick Start guide. A genuine Ledger device will display the Ledger logo on the box and the device itself.
Set up and initialize:
Connect the Ledger device to your computer or mobile device using the supplied cable. Follow the on-screen instructions to choose a PIN code. Choose a PIN that is long and easy for you to remember but hard for others to guess. Never share this PIN.
Write down your recovery phrase:
The device will display a 24-word recovery phrase one word at a time. Write each word clearly on the supplied recovery sheet. Store the recovery sheet somewhere secure, such as a fireproof safe or specialized backup solution. Never store your recovery phrase digitally, never photograph it, and never enter it on a website or app.
Install Ledger Live app:
Download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website. Install the app on your computer or mobile device, then open it and create a new account. Ledger Live manages apps and accounts for your device and provides updates. Use the app to install cryptocurrency apps on your Ledger hardware.
Add accounts:
In Ledger Live, navigate to the Accounts tab and add the cryptocurrencies you wish to manage. Each account corresponds to a blockchain address derived from your recovery phrase on your Ledger device. Verify addresses on the device screen before sending funds to ensure they match the Ledger Live display.
Receive funds securely:
To receive funds, open the Receive flow in Ledger Live, select the account, and connect your device. The Ledger device will display the address; verify the full address displayed on your device before sharing it. This prevents address substitution attacks. Use QR codes for mobile convenience, but always confirm the address visually on the device.
Send transactions:
When sending funds, enter the recipient address in Ledger Live, set an appropriate fee, then confirm the transaction details on the device screen. Ledger signs transactions on-device so private keys never leave the hardware wallet. Confirm the amount and destination on the device before approving.
Firmware updates:
Keep your Ledger device firmware and Ledger Live app up to date. Firmware updates can include important security improvements. Only install firmware through Ledger Live or official Ledger instructions. Do not install third-party firmware or click unknown links.
Security best practices:
Treat your device as a secure vault. Enable passphrase features only if you understand how they work and can manage additional backups. Beware of phishing sites and always verify the URL before entering information. Ledger never asks for your recovery phrase. If prompted for the recovery phrase by any website or technician, decline and contact Ledger support.
Additional notes
Additional notes: always verify firmware signatures when available and enable two-factor protections on associated accounts. Consider using a metal backup for your recovery phrase for resilience against fire, water, and wear. Periodically review account permissions on connected services and revoke any unused approvals. Stay educated about common scams and maintain habit of verifying transaction details visually on your device each time you approve a transaction. Keep your software minimal.