Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® — Getting Started
Official Site® — Ledger.com/Start®: Getting Started with Ledger
This official quick‑start guide helps you unbox, set up, and secure your Ledger hardware wallet using Ledger Live. Follow these steps to safely manage cryptocurrencies and protect your recovery phrase.
What’s in the box
Your Ledger package typically includes:
Ledger hardware device (Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X depending on your order)
USB cable (varies by model)
Recovery sheets to write down your recovery phrase
User manual and warranty card
Anti-tamper packaging
Important: If the packaging appears tampered with, do not use the device and contact Ledger Support or your authorized reseller.
Before you begin — requirements
A computer or smartphone compatible with Ledger Live (desktop app or mobile).
Internet connection to download Ledger Live and firmware updates.
A private, well-lit space to write and store your recovery phrase securely.
1. Download and install Ledger Live
Go to ledger.com/start to download the official Ledger Live app — choose the desktop or mobile version.
Verify the download from the official site. Avoid third‑party downloads or links from emails/social media.
Install and open Ledger Live, then follow on‑screen prompts to begin device setup.
Ledger Live is the official companion app to manage accounts, install apps, and track portfolio performance.
2. Connect your Ledger device
Plug your Ledger device into your computer or pair via Bluetooth (Ledger Nano X) and power it on. The device will display a welcome message and prompt you to set it up as new or restore from an existing recovery phrase.
Select Set up as new device if you are creating a fresh wallet.
The Ledger device will generate a recovery phrase — write the words in order exactly as shown on the provided recovery sheets.
Confirm the recovery phrase when prompted.
Do not store your recovery phrase digitally (screenshots, photos, cloud). Keep it offline and secure.
3. Set your PIN and optional passphrase
Choose a PIN code to protect your device. The PIN is required whenever the device is connected. For advanced users, Ledger supports an optional passphrase (additional secret) that creates an extra hidden wallet. Use a passphrase only if you understand backup and recovery implications.
Losing both your recovery phrase and passphrase can result in permanent loss of funds.
4. Install apps in Ledger Live
Ledger devices use small applications for each supported blockchain. Use Ledger Live’s Manager to install apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
Open Ledger Live and go to Manager.
Connect and unlock your Ledger device.
Install the apps you need — each app uses a small amount of device storage.
After installing apps, add accounts in Ledger Live for the coins you want to manage.
5. Receiving and sending crypto
Receiving
In Ledger Live, open the account and click Receive.
Verify the receiving address displayed in Ledger Live matches the address shown on your Ledger device screen.
Share the verified address with the sender.
Sending
Create a transaction in Ledger Live and enter recipient address and amount.
Review fees and confirm the transaction details in Ledger Live.
Verify and approve the transaction on your Ledger device (on‑device confirmation is the security‑critical step).
Always perform a small test transaction when sending to a new address.
Security best practices
Only buy Ledger devices from the official Ledger website or authorized resellers.
Never reveal your recovery phrase or PIN to anyone. Ledger Support will never ask for your recovery phrase.
Store recovery phrase copies in separate secure locations (e.g., safe deposit box, home safe).
Use the optional passphrase carefully — treat it like an additional seed and store it offline.
Keep Ledger Live and device firmware up to date to receive security patches.
Troubleshooting
Device not recognized: Try a different USB cable or port. Restart Ledger Live and your computer.
Firmware update issues: Ensure a stable internet connection and the official Ledger Live app is up to date.
Forgotten PIN: If you forget your PIN, perform a factory reset and restore from your recovery phrase.
Lost or compromised seed: If you believe your recovery phrase is compromised, immediately create a new wallet on a new device and transfer funds.
FAQ
Can Ledger be hacked?
Ledger devices are designed to isolate private keys and resist remote attacks. No system is perfectly invulnerable — follow best practices and keep firmware updated.
Can I use Ledger with my phone?
Yes — Ledger Live Mobile supports many features and Ledger Nano X supports Bluetooth. Check Ledger Live for mobile compatibility.
What happens if I lose my device?
Your funds are recoverable with your recovery phrase. Restore the wallet on another Ledger device or compatible wallet using your seed.