Get Started with Ledger | Ledger.com/Start

Why use a Ledger hardware wallet?

Hardware wallets store private keys offline in a secure enclave — far away from malicious software that might be running on your computer or phone. If you're serious about owning crypto rather than leaving it on exchanges, a hardware wallet like Ledger gives you full control over your keys and a strong defense against remote attacks.

What you’ll need before you start

• A Ledger device (Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, Stax, etc.) and its USB/USB-C cable.
• Access to a desktop or mobile device (Ledger Live works on macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android).
• A secure, private place to write down your 24-word recovery phrase — never type it on a computer or share it.

Quick links (10 official Ledger pages)

Step-by-step: Set up your Ledger device

1. Buy only from official sources

Always buy Ledger devices from shop.ledger.com or an authorized reseller. Devices bought from unknown marketplaces may be tampered with.

2. Install Ledger Live

Download Ledger Live from the official Ledger site, then install and open it. Ledger Live is the companion app for managing accounts, updating firmware, and checking portfolio balances.

3. Initialize the device

1. Turn on your Ledger and choose “Set up as new device.”
2. Create a PIN directly on the device (do not store the PIN digitally).
3. Write down the 24-word Secret Recovery Phrase exactly as shown. This is the only backup of your wallet.

4. Add accounts in Ledger Live

Open Ledger Live, connect the device, follow the app prompts to install apps for the coins you want, and add accounts. You can now receive and send crypto while your private keys remain on the device.

Best practices for security (must-read)

Never share your recovery phrase

Your 24-word recovery phrase gives direct access to your funds. Ledger (or any legitimate service) will never ask you to share it. If any app, email, or person asks for it — it’s a scam.

Always download Ledger Live from the official site

Only download Ledger Live from ledger.com/ledger-live-download. Fake Ledger apps and malware campaigns exist that try to trick users into entering their seed phrases.

Verify before you click

When directed to install or update software, check the URL carefully and use bookmarks to reach official Ledger pages. If an interface ever asks for your recovery phrase, stop immediately and assume compromise.

Troubleshooting & support

Ledger Support and the Ledger Academy have thorough guides and troubleshooting walkthroughs for device setup, firmware updates, supported coins, and account recovery.

Common fixes:
 - If Ledger Live won’t detect your device: try a different cable/port and enable "browser support" if prompted.
 - If an app fails to install: update firmware via Ledger Live.
 - If you suspect phishing: disconnect device, stop any pending transactions from approving, and visit the official support pages.
      

When to seek help

• If you didn't write your recovery phrase correctly during setup — contact support before using the device further.
• If you think you clicked a suspicious link or installed fake software — assume compromise and move funds to a new wallet after safely restoring with your recovery phrase.

Visual checklist (copy/paste friendly)

Conclusion

Getting started with Ledger is straightforward if you follow a few basic rules: buy official hardware, download Ledger Live from the official site, protect your recovery phrase, and stay vigilant against phishing. With these steps you’ll have a much stronger defense for your crypto holdings.