Ledger.com/start^ | Getting started with Ledger Wallet

What is a Ledger hardware wallet?

Ledger is a brand of hardware wallets that stores your private keys offline in a secure device. Because keys never leave the device, a Ledger protects you from malware and remote attacks that target software wallets or exchanges.

Before you start: what you'll need

A Ledger device (Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, or similar)
A computer or mobile device with USB (or Bluetooth for Nano X)
Access to ledger.com/start to download Ledger Live
A secure, private place to write down your recovery phrase

Step-by-step: initial setup

1. Unbox and verify

Confirm the packaging is sealed and the device isn’t tampered with. Ledger provides tamper-evident packaging; if anything looks off, contact the seller or Ledger support.

2. Install Ledger Live

Go to ledger.com/start, choose your device model, and download Ledger Live. Ledger Live is the official companion app to manage accounts, install apps on the device, and send/receive crypto.

3. Create or restore a wallet

Connect the Ledger device and follow the on-screen instructions in Ledger Live. You can either create a new wallet (recommended for new users) or restore from an existing 24-word recovery phrase.

Choose a PIN

During setup you’ll pick a PIN code — this protects access to the device. Choose a PIN you can remember but that isn’t easy to guess. Never share the PIN.

Write down your recovery phrase

Ledger will display a 24-word recovery phrase. Write it down exactly in order on the provided card (or a metal backup plate for extra durability). Store this somewhere private and offline. The recovery phrase is the only way to restore your funds if your device is lost or destroyed.

Using Ledger safely

Keep firmware and apps updated

Regularly open Ledger Live and apply firmware updates when available. Updates include security improvements. Only update using the official Ledger Live app.

Verify addresses before sending

Always confirm the receiving address shown on your computer or phone by checking the address on the Ledger device's screen. This prevents malware from substituting addresses.

Back up and protect your recovery phrase

Never store your recovery phrase in cloud storage, pictures, or digital notes. Consider a fireproof and waterproof metal backup for long-term storage.

Important: Ledger support will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase. If anyone asks, it's a scam — do not share it.

Common tasks

Adding accounts

Open Ledger Live → Manager to install apps for the coins you want (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.), then add accounts to manage those assets.

Sending and receiving crypto

Use Ledger Live to create transactions. The device will ask you to confirm the transaction details on its screen — review amount, fees, and destination address before approving.