Get started with Ledger* | Ledger.com/start
Welcome — this colorful, approachable, step-by-step guide (≈2,500 words) walks you through unboxing, setting up, securing, and using your Ledger hardware wallet. Follow the headings (H1 → H5) to quickly find what you need, and use the handy links below to jump to official resources.
Quick links (10× Office links)
Below are ten helpful links that take you to the official Ledger start page — useful to open in another tab as you follow this tutorial.
Why choose Ledger for your crypto keys?
Ledger devices are hardware wallets — small, tamper-resistant devices that store the private keys which control access to your cryptocurrencies and digital assets. Unlike software wallets that live on an internet-connected computer or phone, hardware wallets keep keys isolated from online threats. This guide helps you get set up securely and confidently.
What you’ll need before you begin
- A Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or other Ledger hardware)
- A compatible computer or smartphone with internet access
- A USB cable or Bluetooth (device dependent)
- Pen and paper for writing down your recovery phrase — or use a metal backup device for better durability
- Time: set aside 20–40 minutes for the initial setup
Unboxing your Ledger
When your Ledger arrives, check the packaging for tampering and confirm the seal matches the manufacturer’s instructions. Ledger includes only the device, a USB cable, a keychain/case depending on model, setup cards, and quick-start guides. There should never be a pre-filled recovery card—if one is present, contact support immediately.
Step-by-step: initial setup (H3)
Step 1 — Power on & choose a PIN
Turn on your Ledger and follow the on-screen prompts. You’ll be asked to create a PIN code. Choose a PIN you can remember but that’s not easily guessable (avoid birthdays or repeated patterns). This PIN protects the device locally — anyone who physically has the device still needs your PIN to access it.
Step 2 — Write down your recovery phrase
Your Ledger will display a 24-word recovery phrase (sometimes 12 or 18 depending on the device/version). Write each word in order on the official recovery card that came with your device — or use a durable metal backup like Cryptosteel or Billfodl. Your recovery phrase is the ultimate backup: if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged, anyone with that phrase can restore your funds. Keep it offline and secret.
Step 3 — Confirm the recovery phrase
The device will ask you to confirm a few random words to ensure you recorded the phrase correctly. This verification step prevents setup mistakes.
Step 4 — Install Ledger Live
Download and install Ledger Live from the official site: Ledger.com/start. Ledger Live is the companion app that lets you manage apps, accounts, and transactions. Always download Ledger Live from the official URL to avoid phishing.
Step 5 — Add accounts
Open Ledger Live, connect your device, and use the "Manager" to install the coin apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). Then add accounts in Ledger Live for each coin you want to manage. Ledger Live shows balances and helps broadcast transactions while your private keys stay on the device.
Security best practices (keep it safe)
Security is the core reason to use a hardware wallet — but only if you follow a few strict rules. A single mistake (exposing your recovery phrase, buying a tampered device, or using a malicious app) can lead to loss.
Do this
- Buy only from the official Ledger site or an authorized reseller.
- Keep your recovery phrase offline and in a secure place — ideally split across multiple locations.
- Use a metal backup for the recovery phrase if you want fire/water resistance.
- Enable device passphrase features only after you fully understand them — they add security but also complexity.
- Check the device screen before confirming any transaction — the Ledger device shows the exact address and amount that you must confirm physically.
Don't do this
- Don't store your recovery phrase electronically (photos, cloud storage, notes) — these are easily compromised.
- Don't enter your recovery phrase into any website or software (Ledger never asks for your full recovery phrase online).
- Don't buy used Ledger devices without securely wiping and verifying them per Ledger's guidance.
Using Ledger Live: apps, accounts, and transactions
Ledger Live acts as your dashboard. You’ll install coin-specific apps (like Bitcoin or Ethereum) to the device via Ledger Live's Manager. Each installed app uses the device to sign transactions securely.
Install an app
In Ledger Live: go to Manager, connect your Ledger, and install the apps you need — the app sizes are small, and you can install multiple. Follow on-screen prompts to allow connection.
Add an account
After installing an app, choose Add account in Ledger Live, pick the currency, and follow the steps. Ledger Live will read your public addresses from the device (without exposing private keys).
Send & receive
To receive funds, open your account in Ledger Live and click Receive. Always verify the address shown in Ledger Live with the address displayed on your device screen — they must match. To send funds, create the transaction in Ledger Live and confirm the details on your Ledger device physically.
Advanced features worth knowing
Passphrase (optional)
Ledger supports an optional passphrase that acts as an additional word appended to your recovery phrase, creating a hidden wallet. This is powerful but dangerous if used incorrectly: if you forget the passphrase, funds cannot be recovered. Use only after learning the implications.
Multiple accounts & derivation paths
Ledger supports multiple accounts per coin and advanced derivation path management. For most users, the default settings are sufficient. Power users may need custom derivation paths when migrating from other wallets.
Third-party wallets
Ledger works with many third-party wallets (MetaMask, MyEtherWallet, etc.). When using third-party software, the private keys still remain on the Ledger device — third-party software only requests signatures. Always verify compatibility and trustworthiness before connecting.
Troubleshooting: common problems & fixes
Device not recognized
Try a different USB cable, different USB port, and make sure the device is unlocked. If using a phone, ensure supported OTG cable or Bluetooth pairing (model-dependent). Restart the device and Ledger Live if necessary.
Forgot PIN
If you forget your PIN, you must reset the device and restore from your recovery phrase. This is why secure storage of the recovery phrase is critical.
Recovery phrase issues
If you suspect your recovery phrase was exposed or copied, move your funds to a new wallet immediately (generate a new device & new recovery phrase).
Frequently asked questions
- Is Ledger safe?
- Ledger devices are designed to be secure when used correctly. The attack surface is minimized because private keys never leave the device. The security depends on the user's practices (keeping recovery phrase secret, buying official devices).
- Can I recover funds if my device is lost?
- Yes — if you have your recovery phrase. Restore it on a new Ledger or compatible wallet to access your funds.
- What if Ledger Live stops supporting a coin?
- Ledger devices hold private keys that can be used with compatible third-party wallets. Ledger Live is convenient but not the only way to access your assets.
- Should I inscribe my recovery phrase on metal?
- Yes — metal backups resist fire, water, and rot better than paper. Many users combine multiple backups and store them in separate secure locations (safes, safety deposit boxes).
Quick start checklist (printable)
Before you start
- Buy only from Ledger.com or trusted retailers.
- Prepare a pen, trusted private space, and time.
- Decide on using a metal backup or paper card.
During setup
- Power device and choose a strong PIN.
- Write down the 24-word recovery phrase in order.
- Verify the phrase when prompted.
- Install Ledger Live from the official start page.
- Install apps and add accounts.
After setup
- Make a small test transaction first.
- Store the recovery phrase safely (offline).
- Consider a metal backup for long-term storage.
Final thoughts — stay curious, stay safe
Ledger devices provide a strong layer of protection for your crypto holdings when combined with safe operational habits. Hardware security takes a bit of learning, but the peace of mind is worth it. Use Ledger Live as your hub, verify everything on the device screen, and never share your recovery phrase.
Resources
Official setup & support: Ledger.com/start
Learn about metal backups and advanced workflows from Ledger's support pages and community guides.