Ledger Start — A Friendly, Practical Setup Guide

Clear step-by-step instructions to help you set up a Ledger hardware wallet safely. This is an educational guide and not affiliated with any vendor.

Overview

Hardware wallets keep your cryptocurrency keys offline, greatly reducing the risk of theft from malware or phishing. This page explains the typical setup flow you'll encounter when starting a Ledger device: what to look for in the box, how to create a PIN, recording and verifying your recovery phrase, installing Ledger Live, and following security best practices. The guidance here is intentionally practical and concise so you can complete the process without confusion.

Before you begin — safety checks

Take a few moments for these quick checks. They prevent common mistakes and reduce risk from counterfeit or tampered devices.

  • Inspect the packaging for seals or signs of tampering. A factory-sealed box is a good sign.
  • Never download setup software from untrusted third-party sites. Type the official URL manually into your browser.
  • Plan where you will store your recovery phrase physically — a safe or deposit box is best. Avoid taking photos or storing it digitally.

What's in the box

Typical items included with a Ledger device:

  • • Hardware device (model-dependent)
  • • USB or charging cable
  • • Recovery phrase cards for writing down 24 words
  • • Quick-start leaflet and warranty information

If any expected item is missing or packaging looks tampered with, pause and contact official support through verified channels before proceeding.

Step-by-step setup (typical flow)

1

Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official companion app for managing accounts and installing blockchain apps. Download it only from the official site and follow the installer prompts.

2

Power on and set a PIN

Connect the device, power it on, and create a PIN. Choose a PIN you can remember but isn't easily guessable. The PIN prevents local access if the device is lost.

3

Create and record the recovery phrase

Your device will display a set of 24 words — the recovery phrase. Write these words down in order on the supplied card. This phrase is the only backup for your wallet and should be kept offline and secure.

4

Verify the phrase

The device will ask you to confirm several words to ensure that they were recorded correctly. Double-check the spelling and order.

5

Install apps and add accounts

Open Ledger Live, install the blockchain apps you need (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.), then add accounts to view balances and manage assets.

Sending & receiving securely

When receiving funds, always verify the receiving address on the device screen. Devices render addresses internally and the device's display cannot be altered remotely. When sending funds, each transaction must be confirmed physically on the device (button or touchscreen). This physical confirmation ensures that malicious software running on your computer cannot silently sign and send transactions.

Security best practices

  • Never share your recovery phrase with anyone. No legitimate support will ask for it.
  • Keep your recovery phrase offline — consider metal backups for long-term durability.
  • Verify addresses on the device screen, not only in browser windows.
  • Keep Ledger Live and your device firmware up to date to benefit from security improvements.
  • If you suspect the device was tampered with, stop and seek verified support. Consider moving funds to a newly initialized device if compromise is suspected.

Troubleshooting & support tips

Common setup hiccups often have simple remedies: reconnect the cable, try a different USB port, restart Ledger Live, or reboot the computer. For firmware or app errors, ensure you're using the latest Ledger Live release. If problems persist, consult official support channels reachable from the vendor's verified site. Never provide your recovery phrase to anyone claiming to help.

Quick reference (keep offline)

Important: never store this sample phrase anywhere online. It is an example only: sample recovery (example only): abandon ability able about above absent absorb abstract absurd abuse access accident This is a sample — your device generates a unique 24-word phrase during setup.