Start at Ledger.com/Start — first steps
Use the official Ledger start page to download Ledger Live and begin setup. This short guide summarizes the essential steps and best practices for securing cryptocurrency with a Ledger hardware wallet.
Welcome to Ledger.com/Start — your concise, trustworthy starting point for setting up a Ledger hardware wallet and protecting your cryptocurrency holdings. Whether you are new to hardware wallets or migrating from a software wallet, this guide walks you through each step with clear instructions, security best practices, and practical tips that keep your private keys offline and your assets safe.
Getting started
Begin at Ledger.com/Start to download Ledger Live, the companion app that manages accounts, sends and receives tokens, and updates firmware. Use only the official Ledger website link and verify the URL carefully to avoid phishing scams. Plug in your Ledger device, follow the on-screen prompts in Ledger Live, and choose a PIN. Memorize the PIN and never store it in plain text or online.
Write down your recovery phrase
During initialization, your Ledger will display a 24-word recovery phrase. Write these words down on the card provided — never take a photo, never save them digitally, and never share them. This phrase is the ultimate backup of your keys; anyone with access to it can control your funds. Consider storing the written phrase in multiple secure locations (e.g., a safe, a bank deposit box, or a trusted physical backup) to protect against loss or damage.
Firmware and app updates
Keep your Ledger device firmware and Ledger Live app up to date. Ledger issues firmware releases that fix bugs and harden security. Apply updates only through Ledger Live. If prompted to update, follow the official instructions and confirm the device display before approving any operation.
Adding accounts and receiving crypto
Ledger Live supports many cryptocurrencies. Add individual accounts for each asset you want to hold. To receive crypto, use the receive feature in Ledger Live and verify the address shown on the device screen matches the app. Confirming addresses on the device is critical — it ensures the address hasn’t been tampered with by malware on your computer.
Sending crypto securely
When sending funds, confirm the transaction details on your Ledger device before approving. Check the amount, the destination address, and any network fees. Approve transactions only when the details exactly match what you intend to send.
Advanced tips & scams
Consider using a passphrase in addition to your 24-word recovery phrase. A passphrase acts as a 25th word and can create hidden wallets, but if you use one, store it securely — it is not recoverable by Ledger. Test backups on a spare device and beware of scams: Ledger support will never ask for your full recovery phrase or PIN.
Visit Ledger.com/Start for official tutorials, support articles, and customer service options. If you need help with an urgent issue, use Ledger’s verified support channels rather than community forums where misinformation can spread.