Welcome — a bright, clear start

You’ve found the page titled Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® — Getting started. This guide is written to be approachable, practical, and visually vibrant — using clear headings (H1–H5), friendly explanations, and actionable tips to get your Ledger hardware wallet set up and working with confidence. Follow the sections below in order, or jump to whatever heading you need.

Why a hardware wallet matters

Hardware wallets — like Ledger devices — are specialized tools that keep your private keys offline and under your control. While custodial services and exchanges manage keys for you, a hardware wallet gives you full ownership: only you can authorize transactions. That control brings responsibility: keep your recovery phrase safe, update firmware from official sources, and never reveal secret information to anyone.

What we’ll cover

Unboxing & first steps

Start by checking the package for tamper-evidence and verifying the contents: device, USB cable (or adapter), recovery cards, and quick start guide. Genuine packages usually include clear manufacturer packaging and printed material — but packaging can vary.

Step 1 — inspect the box

Look for any unusual seals or damage. If anything looks tampered with, stop and contact the vendor you purchased from. Always buy hardware wallets from trusted sources or the official store to minimize risk.

Quick checklist

  • Device appears new, no strange scratches
  • Accessories included (cable, cards)
  • Instructions/leaflets present

Initial setup — turn on and initialize

The following is a general overview of the setup flow most Ledger devices use. Exact screens can vary by model and firmware version, but the principles are the same: safely choose a PIN, get a recovery phrase, and verify that phrase.

Step 2 — power on & choose "Set up as new device"

Power the device and follow on-screen prompts. You’ll typically be asked whether to restore from an existing phrase or set up as a new device. Choose to set up as new if you don’t already have a hardware wallet recovery phrase.

Choosing a PIN (short & sweet)

Pick a PIN you can remember but isn’t trivial. Do not write the PIN on the recovery card or share it. Choose 4–8 digits depending on the firmware; longer is usually better.

On the recovery phrase

The device will show a recovery phrase (commonly 24 words). Write these words exactly as shown on the included recovery sheet. This phrase is the single master key for your crypto — if someone else sees it, they can access your funds.

Never type your recovery phrase into a website, an email, or a cloud document. Keep it offline and consider using a steel backup or other fireproof/secure storage.

Installing Ledger Live & apps

Ledger Live is the companion app that allows you to manage accounts, install currency-specific apps, and send/receive assets. Always download Ledger Live from the official source. Search for "Ledger Live" on the official Ledger site or use official links provided by the vendor.

Connecting Ledger Live

After installation, open Ledger Live and follow prompts to connect your device. Ledger Live often prompts to install firmware updates or app updates — apply them only if they come from the official app, and never when prompted by an unknown third-party tool.

Installing currency apps

In Ledger Live’s "Manager" tab you can install apps for Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc. Installing an app does not transfer funds — it simply enables the device to manage that asset type. You can install multiple apps but the device internal memory may limit how many at once; remove and reinstall as needed (accounts remain safe).

Using accounts: receive, send, verify

Accounts are created inside Ledger Live and derived from your device. To receive funds, always check the public address on both Ledger Live and the device screen — they must match. For outgoing transactions, the device displays the transaction details for you to confirm (amount, destination). Verify carefully before approving.

Common workflows

Security best practices (non-negotiable)

Security is the most important part of owning a hardware wallet. A few rules drastically reduce risk:

Do this

Don’t do this

Backup strategies

Beyond the paper card, consider a metal backup for physical durability. Keep multiple copies in geographically separate safe locations if you manage a large amount — but ensure each copy is secure.

Troubleshooting & FAQs

My device won’t connect

Try a different cable/USB port, ensure Ledger Live is up to date, and verify the device is unlocked. If the problem persists, reboot your computer and check official support resources before attempting any advanced step.

I forgot my PIN

If you forget your PIN, the only safe recovery is to perform a device reset and restore from your recovery phrase. That’s why keeping the phrase secure and accessible is critical. Never try to guess PINs repeatedly (many devices will wipe after a number of wrong attempts).

How to verify firmware and software

Ledger provides official checks — always install firmware using the official Ledger Live app and follow prompts carefully. Ledger Live will guide you through any verification process during an update.

Advanced topics (brief)

Using third-party wallets

Ledger devices can be used with third-party wallets that support hardware wallets (for example, wallets that expose specific protocols). When using third-party software, ensure it’s reputable and verify every transaction on your device.

Enterprise & multisig

For advanced users and organizations, multisignature setups and enterprise-grade backups are options to explore. These setups require careful planning and often a higher level of operational security.

Designing your personal security routine

All effective security is a habit: set a secure place for your recovery phrase, schedule periodic checks to ensure firmware and apps are current, and educate yourself about social engineering tactics used by scammers. Keep a checklist and review it annually or after any major change to your setup.

Sample checklist (printable)

Final notes & friendly reminders

A hardware wallet like Ledger places you in control. That’s powerful and empowering — and it carries an obligation to protect your keys. If anything about your setup feels uncertain, pause, take a breath, and consult official documentation or verified support channels.

Where to find official help

Always start with the vendor’s official documentation and support pages. If you use third-party resources, cross-check recommendations and avoid any guidance that asks you to reveal your recovery phrase.