Ledger.com/Start | Official* Setup Guide

Why use a hardware wallet?

Hardware wallets like Ledger keep your private keys offline, which greatly reduces the risk of remote theft. Whether you're storing Bitcoin, Ethereum, or many other tokens, the combination of a secure device and verified setup procedures is the best practice for long-term security.

Quick start links

Begin or verify your setup at the official Ledger start page: Ledger.com/Start — Official Setup Guide.

Before you begin

Box contents & checks

• Confirm sealed package, tamper evidence intact.
• Unpack: Ledger device, USB cable, recovery sheets, instructions card.
• Do not accept devices pre-configured by anyone else.

Important precautions

1. Only visit the official setup link: https://ledger.com/start.
2. Never share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone — Ledger staff will never ask for it.
3. Perform setup in a private, trusted environment.

Step-by-step setup (recommended)

1. Go to the official start page

Open a modern browser and go to the official setup page: Ledger.com/Start. This page contains the latest Ledger Live application and step-by-step instructions.

2. Install Ledger Live

From Ledger.com/Start, download the correct Ledger Live installer for your operating system (Windows / macOS / Linux). Follow on-screen prompts to install.

Verify the app if prompted

Ledger occasionally provides instructions to verify downloads. Follow any official verification steps from the start page for additional assurance.

3. Power up and choose a PIN

Connect your Ledger device to your computer/phone, power it, and follow the device prompts to create a secure PIN. Choose a PIN you can remember but is not easily guessable. Do not store the PIN electronically.

4. Write down your recovery phrase

The device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. Write it down on the provided recovery sheet, in the exact order. Store it securely offline — ideally in a safe or a safety deposit box. This phrase is the single backup to access your funds.

Security note

If any site or person asks for your 24-word phrase, treat it as a targeted scam. Ledger staff or official support will never ask you for this phrase.

Adding accounts and transferring funds

Connect Ledger Live to your device

Open Ledger Live, choose Add account, select the coin (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.), and follow prompts to add and name your accounts. Always confirm on the device that addresses shown in Ledger Live match the device screen.

Receive funds

1. In Ledger Live, select the account and click Receive.
2. Verify the address on your device screen before sharing it.
3. Send funds from the exchange or wallet to that address.

Troubleshooting (common issues)

Device not recognized

If your computer doesn't detect the Ledger device: try a different cable, USB port, or a different computer. Ensure Ledger Live is up to date (via Ledger.com/Start instructions).

Firmware update required

Ledger devices may require firmware updates for new features or security fixes. Ledger Live will prompt you if an update is necessary — follow the official prompts and verify everything on-device.

Lost PIN or device

If you lose access to the device or forget the PIN, you can restore your wallet on a new Ledger device or a compatible recovery tool using your 24-word phrase. This is why storing the recovery phrase securely is essential.

Advanced tips & best practices

Use passphrase for extra security

Ledger supports adding an optional passphrase to the 24-word seed (making a different "hidden" account). This increases security but also increases complexity — only use it if you understand the implications and have secure, separate backups.

Keep software updated

Always keep Ledger Live and your device firmware updated by checking the official start page: Ledger.com/Start for the latest downloads.

Store multiple backups

Consider maintaining geographically separated backups of recovery information (paper or metal), but avoid digital copies. For high-value holdings, consider using specialist secure storage solutions and legal protections.

Resources & support

Official support and guides

Always use official resources for troubleshooting and support. The official setup and support hub is: Ledger.com/Start. If you need live support, use links from the official site — avoid support offered via unsolicited emails or social media DMs.

Further reading

• Security best practices for hardware wallets
• How to safely move large crypto holdings
• Comparing backup options (paper vs. metal)

Quick checklist

1. Verify package seal and device authenticity.
2. Install Ledger Live from the official start page: Ledger.com/Start.
3. Create PIN and write down 24-word recovery phrase.
4. Store backup offline and verify addresses on-device before sending funds.