Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® | Getting started

A clear, step-by-step onboarding guide for new Ledger users. Keyword: Ledger.com/Start.

Welcome to the official onboarding guide for Ledger hardware wallets. This page walks you through the essential steps at Ledger.com/Start to get your Ledger device set up safely and quickly. Whether you just received a Ledger device in the mail or are preparing to restore from a recovery phrase, this guide will help you install Ledger Live, initialize your device, and follow best security practices.

What you'll need before you start

A genuine Ledger device (Nano S, Nano S Plus, Nano X, or other official model).
A computer or mobile device with a compatible browser or the Ledger Live app.
Your recovery phrase backup materials (not stored digitally).
A stable internet connection to download Ledger Live from Ledger.com/Start.

Important: always download Ledger Live from Ledger.com/Start or the official app stores. Do not trust unverified links or attachments.

Step-by-step setup (using Ledger.com/Start)

Follow these steps exactly to complete the setup process. The instructions below mirror the flow you’ll find on Ledger.com/Start and in Ledger Live.

1. Unbox and inspect

Carefully unbox your Ledger device and verify the tamper-evident packaging. If anything looks altered, do not proceed and contact official support via the links on Ledger.com. Genuine Ledger packaging always includes a sealed box and security information in the quick start guides.

2. Download Ledger Live

Go to Ledger.com/Start and download the Ledger Live installer for your operating system, or install the Ledger Live app on your mobile device from the official app store. Launch the app and follow the on-screen prompts.

3. Initialize your device

When prompted, choose whether to set up a new device or recover an existing wallet. If you set up a new device, you’ll create a PIN code and generate a recovery phrase. Write the recovery phrase down on the supplied card—never store it digitally.

4. Verify your recovery phrase

The device will ask you to confirm a few words from your recovery phrase. This verification step ensures you recorded the phrase correctly. If you find discrepancies, repeat the setup or contact support.

5. Install apps & add accounts

Use Ledger Live to install the appropriate blockchain apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) to the device and add accounts. Ledger Live will show step-by-step prompts to connect, install, and manage your accounts securely.

6. Receive funds

To receive crypto, open the account in Ledger Live, click Receive, and verify the address on your Ledger device screen before sharing it. Always check the address on the hardware device itself — this is the critical defense against malware address manipulation.

Security best practices

Security is the primary reason for using a hardware wallet. Follow these recommendations to protect your funds:

Always download software from Ledger.com/Start or official app stores.
Never reveal your recovery phrase to anyone — Ledger employees will never ask for it.
Store your recovery phrase in a secure, offline location (preferably metal backup for fire/water resistance).
Use a strong PIN and enable additional protection features supported by the device.
Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated; updates are delivered through the official channels documented at Ledger.com/Start.

If you suspect your recovery phrase was exposed, immediately move funds to a new wallet with a new recovery phrase using a device you trust.

Troubleshooting & support

Common issues and quick fixes:

Device not recognized: Check the USB cable, try a different port, or use another machine. Ensure USB debugging is turned off on mobile devices that may interfere.
Ledger Live won't install an app: Update your device firmware via Ledger Live and try again. Follow the exact instructions on Ledger.com/Start.
Forgot your PIN: You will need to reset the device and restore using your recovery phrase. Only do this if you have the recovery phrase securely stored.

For step-by-step tutorials, video guides, and official support, visit Ledger.com/Start or the support section linked from the official site.

FAQ — Quick answers

Q: Is Ledger.com/Start the official download source?

A: Yes. Always use Ledger.com/Start to download Ledger Live or find official mobile links. Avoid third-party downloads or links shared in chats.

Q: Can I use my Ledger on multiple devices?

A: Yes. Your Ledger device can be connected to multiple machines but keep the recovery phrase offline and private. Use the same recovery phrase only on devices you fully control.

Q: What happens if I lose my Ledger device?

A: If you have your recovery phrase, you can restore your accounts on a new Ledger device or compatible wallet. If you do not have the recovery phrase, funds cannot be recovered.