Welcome to the official Ledger.com/Start® guide — your trusted path to setting up and securing your Ledger hardware wallet. Whether you’re a beginner exploring digital currencies or a seasoned trader securing your crypto assets, this guide ensures every step of your journey begins safely, confidently, and securely.
Before anything else, carefully inspect your Ledger device packaging. Each official Ledger device arrives sealed and tamper-evident. Check for any sign of damage or pre-use. Always purchase directly through Ledger.com or authorized retailers to ensure authenticity and protect against counterfeit devices.
Ledger Live is your secure companion app, designed to manage your crypto portfolio and access firmware updates. Download it only from the official Ledger website. Avoid third-party sources or email links. Once installed, connect your Ledger device using the supplied cable and follow the on-screen prompts.
Choose “Set up as new device” on your Ledger screen. You’ll be prompted to create a unique PIN code — this ensures no one can access your wallet without authorization. Select a strong PIN, and never share it or store it digitally.
The 24-word recovery phrase displayed is the master key to your crypto assets. Write each word carefully on the provided recovery sheet. Keep multiple offline backups in separate secure locations. Never share this phrase or input it into any website, including Ledger’s own — no legitimate service will ask for it.
Always confirm firmware updates directly through Ledger Live and verify device authenticity during setup. Avoid using public Wi-Fi when initializing or accessing sensitive data. Your wallet’s physical isolation is what keeps your keys secure.
Ledger wallets are designed with a Secure Element chip — the same technology used in passports and credit cards. This ensures your private keys never leave the device, even when connected to potentially unsafe computers. Beyond the hardware, your vigilance plays a crucial role. Here are best practices to follow:
Regularly update Ledger Live and your device’s firmware. Updates patch vulnerabilities, add new coin support, and maintain compatibility with blockchain protocols.
Consider fireproof and waterproof storage for your recovery phrase. Many users prefer metal recovery backups to protect against environmental damage. Treat this phrase as you would a vault key — if lost, your assets are unrecoverable.
Ledger will never contact you asking for recovery phrases or personal details. Always verify email addresses and website URLs carefully. Bookmark https://www.ledger.com/start and access it directly when needed.
Avoid connecting your Ledger to public or shared computers. Keep your system clean from malware by using trusted antivirus software and regularly updating your operating system.
For professionals managing large portfolios, consider multiple Ledger devices to segregate holdings by purpose (e.g., savings vs. daily transactions). Use multi-signature setups where applicable for added redundancy.
If your Ledger is lost or damaged, you can recover your assets on a new device using your 24-word recovery phrase. Without that phrase, your crypto cannot be restored — so guard it with utmost care.
Yes. Ledger supports over 5,500 coins and tokens. You can install multiple apps within Ledger Live and manage everything from Bitcoin to NFTs safely from one interface.
Absolutely. Ledger Live is available for both desktop and mobile platforms. The Bluetooth-enabled Ledger Nano X connects seamlessly to your smartphone via the Ledger Live mobile app.
During setup, Ledger Live automatically performs a genuineness check through secure attestation. This process ensures your device’s firmware has not been altered and is officially recognized by Ledger.
Always store small amounts of crypto during your first test transaction. Once you confirm everything operates smoothly, you can safely transfer larger sums. This practice helps prevent irreversible errors during wallet setup or address entry.