Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start | Getting started®

Quick guide: This page is a presentation-style, accessible HTML walkthrough for first-time Ledger users. Links to the official start page are included for convenience.

Overview: what this guide covers (short)

This document provides a concise, presentation-ready walkthrough for setting up a Ledger hardware wallet. It explains preparation, unboxing, initializing the device, securing the recovery phrase, installing apps, making your first transaction, and ongoing safety tips. For the official onboarding flow, visit Official Site® — Ledger Start.

Important safety note

Only use the official setup instructions on the manufacturer's website and the device screen. Never share your 24-word recovery phrase. Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase via email or any website. For the manufacturer’s start guide, see https://ledger.com/start.

Contents

  1. Before you begin
  2. Unboxing and inspection
  3. Initialization and PIN
  4. Recovery phrase: write and verify
  5. Install Ledger Live and apps
  6. Receive and send test funds
  7. Backup, updates, and maintenance

1. Before you begin

What you'll need

A stable computer or phone, a USB-C cable (or the cable provided), a private quiet space, and a pen to write your recovery phrase. Avoid taking photos of your recovery phrase or storing it digitally.

Checklist

2. Unboxing and inspection

Inspect the packaging for tamper-evidence and confirm the hologram/seal. If something looks suspicious, contact Ledger support directly via the official site before proceeding.

Visual checks

  • Sealed box with manufacturer tamper-proof elements
  • Included accessories match the packing list
  • No physical damage to the device

3. Initialization and PIN

Power on the device and follow the on-screen prompts. Choose to set up as a new device (unless restoring). Create a strong PIN using at least 4 digits — longer is better. The PIN is entered on the device, not on your computer, which keeps it secure.

Step: Choose "Set up as new device"

Confirm on the device display and on the official onboarding page (Ledger Start).

Step: Pick a PIN

Enter and confirm your PIN directly on the device.

4. Recovery phrase: write and verify

Critical: physical backup

The device will show your 24-word recovery phrase on-screen, one word at a time. Write each word on the provided card or a trusted steel backup. Do not store this phrase electronically. Verify the words when prompted by the device. If you lose these words, you lose access to your funds.

Best practices

  • Keep the written phrase in at least two separate secure locations (e.g., safe, safety deposit box).
  • Do not share the recovery phrase with anyone.
  • Consider a metal backup plate for fire and water protection.

5. Install Ledger Live and apps

Download Ledger Live only from the official site. Install the desktop or mobile app and follow the pairing steps. Use Ledger Live to install cryptocurrency-specific apps onto your device (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.).

Official download: Ledger Start — Official.

6. Receive and send test funds

Always test with a small amount first. Use Ledger Live to generate an address and check the address on your device screen before sharing it. Confirm transaction details on the hardware device before approving.

Confirmation steps
  • Generate receive address in Ledger Live.
  • Verify full address on the device screen (match it exactly).
  • Send a small amount from an exchange or another wallet.

7. Backup, updates, and maintenance

Keep firmware up to date and confirm update steps with Ledger Live. Never enter your recovery phrase into software. If you need to restore, use the official restore flow in Ledger Live or the device interface.

Support and official resources: Official Site® — Start.

Accessibility & print-friendly tips

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Summary

Setting up a Ledger device is straightforward when you follow manufacturer instructions. Protect your recovery phrase, verify addresses on the device, and use the official onboarding portal at Official Site® — Ledger Start. If something seems off, pause and contact official support through the same site.

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