Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started Wallet Setup

Overview

Welcome! This guide walks you through setting up a Ledger hardware wallet from the very first steps to everyday use. It explains safety-first practices (your recovery phrase), installing Ledger Live, connecting the device, managing cryptocurrencies, common troubleshooting, and recommended follow-ups. The goal: fast, secure setup in an office-friendly, colorful format.

Table of contents

1. Quick checklist — What you need

2. Physical unboxing & verification

When you receive the device, verify packaging seals and holograms if present. Only set up a brand-new device out of a sealed box. If anything looks tampered with, contact the vendor and do not use the device.

Unboxing steps

1. Remove the device from its sealed packaging.
2. Confirm authenticity: manufacturer card, serial number label, and Ledger hologram (if included).
3. Keep packaging and serial info for warranty and support.

3. Install Ledger Live (official app)

Ledger Live is the official interface for managing accounts and apps. Always download from https://ledger.com/start (or links below).

1. Visit the official start page and choose your operating system.
2. Download and install Ledger Live. On first run, allow the app to update firmware if prompted.
3. Create or restore a portfolio within Ledger Live to begin adding accounts.

4. Initialize the device & set a PIN

Power on the Ledger device and follow on-screen prompts. You’ll choose between creating a new wallet (new seed) or restoring from an existing recovery phrase.

Set a strong PIN

Choose a PIN you can remember but that would be hard for others to guess. PIN length varies by device; longer is stronger.

Step-by-step

1. Press both buttons to start the device.
2. Choose "Set up as new device".
3. Select a PIN using device buttons, confirm it.
4. The device will display your recovery phrase words one by one — write them down in order.

5. Recovery phrase — write & secure (CRITICAL)

The 24-word recovery phrase is the only backup of your private keys. Secure it offline and never type it into a computer, phone, or cloud note.

Best practices

• Write the phrase on the supplied card and make at least two physical copies stored in separate secure locations (e.g., safe deposit box, home safe).
• Consider a metal backup plate for fire/water resistance.
• Do not share the phrase with anyone. Ledger will never ask for it.

6. Install apps & add accounts

Use Ledger Live's Manager to install cryptocurrency apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) to your device. Each app allows accounts to be created and addresses to be displayed securely on the device.

1. Open Ledger Live & go to Manager.
2. Connect and unlock your Ledger with your PIN.
3. Install the apps you need (each app uses device storage).
4. In Accounts, click "Add account", follow prompts to scan and add addresses.

7. Send & receive — test transaction

Before moving large amounts, send a small test transaction to confirm everything works and the receiving address shown in Ledger Live matches the address shown on your device screen.

1. In Ledger Live, select Receive and the account.
2. Verify the address on the device screen visually matches the app.
3. Send a small amount from an exchange or another wallet to test.
4. Once confirmed, send the full amount if desired.

8. Troubleshooting & common issues

If device doesn't connect: try a different USB cable, USB port, or computer. If Ledger Live prompts for firmware updates, follow instructions carefully and ensure the recovery phrase is already backed up before updating.

Common fixes

• Restart Ledger Live and your computer.
• Try reinstalling Ledger Live from the official site.
• Contact official support if you suspect hardware tampering.

9. Security checklist (must-do)

• Never share recovery phrase. Ledger support will never ask for it.
• Keep firmware up to date via Ledger Live’s official updates.
• Use a passphrase (optional advanced feature) if you need an extra hidden account layer.
• Consider a hardware wallet for long-term holdings and cold storage.

10. Final recommendations

Treat your device like a bank vault — access is physical and secrets-only. For businesses, use multi-signature schemes or hardware security module (HSM) solutions if you need shared custody or regulatory compliance.

Thank you — this guide is intended to help you set up securely and simply. Below are 10 curated links (official & office-friendly) to continue learning, download software, and access templates.