Get Started with Ledger – Official Ledger.com/Start Hub
Welcome to your step-by-step introduction to setting up and using a Ledger hardware wallet. This guide is structured with clear headings (H1, H2, H3, H4) and practical steps so you can confidently secure and manage your crypto assets.
Why choose Ledger for your crypto security?
Ledger hardware wallets protect your private keys in a secure, offline environment. Unlike software wallets that keep keys on an internet-connected device, Ledger devices isolate keys so hackers can't access them remotely.
Core benefits
- Cold storage of private keys — air-gapped security.
- Open, audited firmware and wide ecosystem support.
- Easy recovery flow with a 24-word recovery phrase.
- Works with Ledger Live and many third-party wallets.
Before you start — what you'll need
Prepare the essentials before unboxing a Ledger device:
- A Ledger hardware wallet (e.g., Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X).
- A computer or smartphone with USB/USB-C or Bluetooth (depending on model).
- A secure, private place to write down your recovery phrase — never take a photo or store it digitally.
- Access to the official Ledger Start Hub for downloads and official instructions.
Step-by-step setup: from unbox to managed
Unbox and check authenticity
Inspect packaging and tamper-evident seals. Use Ledger's official authenticity checks and documentation on the Start Hub: https://www.ledger.com/start.
Install Ledger Live
Download Ledger Live from the official site, install it on your computer or mobile device, and follow the on-screen prompts to create a new wallet or restore an existing one.
Download: https://www.ledger.com/startInitialize your device
Power on the device, select “Set up as new device” (or restore if you have an existing recovery phrase), then choose a PIN. Record the 24-word recovery phrase on the supplied recovery card — physically and privately.
Install apps for your coins
Within Ledger Live, open the Manager and install the apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) for the assets you want to hold. Ledger Live displays compatible apps and instructions from the official hub: Ledger Start.
Receive and verify
Create an account in Ledger Live for a specific coin, obtain the receiving address from your device (verify it on the device screen), then send a small test transaction first.
Best practices & safety (must-read)
Secure your recovery phrase
Treat your 24-word recovery phrase like the master key to your funds. Never store it digitally, never share it, and never enter it into a website or app. Use a fire- and water-resistant backup solution if possible.
What not to do
- Do not photograph your recovery phrase or store it in the cloud.
- Do not give your recovery phrase to anyone claiming to be “support”. Ledger support will never ask for it.
- Do not buy devices from unofficial resellers to avoid tampered hardware.
Common tasks: sending, staking, connecting DApps
Send and receive
Sending requires confirming the transaction on your Ledger device. Always verify the address on the device screen before approving.
Staking & DeFi
Ledger supports staking for several PoS assets and can connect to DeFi apps through Ledger Live or via trusted third-party integrations. Always use Ledger Live or the DApp’s official integration guidance from the Start Hub.
Connecting DApps
When connecting a DApp, use the browser extension or WalletConnect option trusted by Ledger and confirm all actions directly on your device.
Troubleshooting & support
Firmware updates
Keep firmware up to date via Ledger Live. Firmware updates improve security but make sure you follow the official update flow at the Start Hub: Ledger Start.
Lost device but you have recovery phrase
If your device is lost or damaged but you have your recovery phrase, you can restore funds on a new Ledger device or a compatible wallet that supports BIP39/BIP44 recovery standards. Always verify the restore steps with official documentation.
Suspected compromise
If you believe your recovery phrase was exposed, move funds immediately to a new wallet with a new recovery phrase. Consult Ledger’s official guidance for safe migration: Ledger Start.
Official resources & quick links
The following are direct entry points to the official onboarding resources. Use them to verify steps or download tools:
Final checklist — are you ready?
- Device authentic and sealed.
- Ledger Live installed from the official source.
- PIN chosen and memorized (but not written electronically).
- 24-word recovery written on physical backup and stored securely.
- Small test transaction completed before larger transfers.