Ledger.com/Start® | Getting started — Ledger

A clean, step-by-step guide to set up your Ledger device, install Ledger Live, verify authenticity, and secure your recovery. Official resources linked below for download, support, and verification.

Getting started — quick overview

Top tip: Only download Ledger Live and firmware updates from Ledger’s official site. Never share your 24-word recovery phrase — Ledger never asks for it.

Why use a hardware wallet?

Hardware wallets keep your private keys offline in a secure chip, separated from internet-connected devices. This drastically reduces risk from malware, phishing, and other remote attacks while giving you full control of your crypto.

What you’ll need

  • Ledger hardware device (Nano series, Stax, Flex, etc.)
  • Desktop or smartphone and a USB-C / Bluetooth capability for some devices
  • Ledger Live app (official download)
  • Safe place to store your recovery phrase — never digital

Step-by-step setup (condensed)

  1. 1

    Unbox & inspect

    Buy only from official store or authorized resellers. Confirm the package seals and genuine checks before powering on.

  2. 2

    Install Ledger Live

    Download Ledger Live from Ledger’s official download page and install on your OS (Windows/macOS/Linux) or mobile device.

  3. 3

    Onboard the device

    Follow the device prompts to create a PIN and generate a recovery phrase. Write the recovery phrase by hand and store it offline.

  4. 4

    Verify genuineness

    Use Ledger Live’s genuine check and support guidance to verify your device. Ledger performs checks at onboarding and via My Ledger.

  5. 5

    Install apps & manage assets

    Install coin apps through Ledger Live, add accounts, and move assets from exchanges to your secure addresses.

Security best practices

Never enter your recovery phrase into a computer or website. Beware of fake Ledger Live installers and phishing sites — always verify signatures and download URLs.

Troubleshooting

If something looks off (unexpected prompts, requests for seed words, or unusual downloads), stop and consult Ledger support and verification articles.

Prepared with official Ledger resources.
Last updated: Live

Deep dive: ledger ecosystem & protections

Ledger hardware wallets use a Secure Element chip and Ledger’s proprietary OS to isolate private keys. Ledger Live acts as the user interface to manage accounts while the signing operations always occur on-device. For advanced backup options, Ledger offers the Ledger Recovery Key product with documented security guarantees and procedures.

Keeping your assets safe

Stay updated: Ledger periodically publishes security guidance and whitepapers; follow official pages for firmware updates, genuine checks, and best practices. If you suspect compromise, use official support channels and consult the warranty and reseller guides.

Further reading & official references

  1. Ledger Start — how to set up
  2. Ledger Live overview
  3. Ledger Live downloads
  4. Genuine device checks
  5. Hardware integrity
  6. Recovery Key white paper
  7. Security model
  8. Ledger Shop
  9. Buy through Ledger Live
  10. Warranty & Ledger Replace