Introduction

If you own cryptocurrency, protecting your private keys is the single most important task you will do. A Ledger hardware wallet keeps your keys offline while Ledger Live — the official desktop and mobile application — helps you manage accounts, sign transactions, and keep firmware up to date. This page walks you through an accessible, secure setup flow so you can start using your device confidently. For official downloads and the latest instructions visit Ledger.com/Start.

The setup process may look short on the surface — unbox, connect, write down a recovery phrase — but each step has security choices. This guide covers practical tips, what to avoid, and how to recover if something goes wrong.

Why use a Ledger hardware wallet?

Software wallets are convenient, but their private keys live on internet-connected devices and are therefore exposed to malware and phishing. Ledger hardware wallets store private keys in a tamper-resistant chip and require physical confirmation on the device for any transaction. Combining a hardware wallet with Ledger Live gives you an interface for everyday operations while keeping the signing keys offline and secure.

Step-by-step setup (quick overview)

1. Unbox & verify: Confirm the packaging is intact. If anything looks tampered with, contact the seller or Ledger support. Ledger.com/Start includes authenticity steps. Ledger.com/Start.

2. Download Ledger Live: Always download Ledger Live from the official site. Install the desktop or mobile version and use it to initialize your device. Ledger Live download.

3. Connect device: Plug the Ledger into USB (or pair via Bluetooth for supported models) and follow on-screen instructions in Ledger Live to begin configuration.

4. Choose setup: Select “Set up as new device” to create a new wallet or “Restore device” if you already have a recovery phrase from another device.

5. Pick a PIN: Choose a PIN code you can remember but others cannot guess. This PIN protects the physical device if stolen.

6. Write down the recovery phrase: Your 24-word recovery phrase is the only backup for your keys. Write it on the supplied recovery card (or a metal backup) and store it offline and in a safe location. Do not photograph or store it digitally.

7. Install apps & add accounts: Use Ledger Live’s Manager to install blockchain-specific apps on your device (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum), then add accounts to manage balances and transactions.

8. Verify addresses and transact: Always verify receiving addresses on the Ledger device screen, and confirm transaction details on-device before approving.

9. Keep firmware & app updated: Use Ledger Live to apply official firmware updates when prompted — never install updates from unverified sources.

10. Test recovery (optional but recommended): Practice restoring the recovery phrase on a spare device (or emulator) to ensure the backup works and you understand the process.

Unboxing & first checks

When your Ledger arrives, inspect the seal and packaging. Ledger devices ship with tamper-evident elements; if something looks suspicious, stop and reach out to support. Avoid purchasing used or second-hand devices — the safest buy is directly from Ledger.com/Start or authorized resellers.

If everything looks good, connect the device and follow Ledger Live’s prompts. Ledger Live will guide you through firmware checks and the initial configuration workflow.

Creating & safeguarding your recovery phrase

The recovery phrase (typically 24 words) is the critical secret: it recreates your wallet on any compatible device. Treat it like the gold key to your funds. Best practices:

Write it physically on paper or use a metal backup plate built for mnemonic storage.
Store copies in geographically separate, secure locations (e.g., safe deposit box, fireproof safe).
Never type it into a computer, phone, cloud storage, photo, or email.
Never share the phrase. No legitimate support team will ask for it.

If your recovery phrase is compromised, move funds to a new wallet as soon as possible and safely destroy the old phrase.

Using Ledger Live to manage accounts

Ledger Live is the official companion app where you add accounts, check balances, and build transactions. Use the Manager inside Ledger Live to install the appropriate apps on your device (one app per blockchain). After installing, add accounts in Ledger Live — each account maps to addresses derived from your recovery phrase but requires the physical device to sign transactions.

For details about which coins and tokens Ledger supports, consult the official supported assets index. Supported cryptocurrencies.

Send & receive — practical safety checklist

When receiving: generate a fresh address in Ledger Live and confirm it on the device’s screen before you share it. When sending: always verify the destination address and the amount on the hardware screen — malware on a computer can tamper with on-screen values but cannot change the device display.

For large transfers, send a small test amount first. Review transaction recommendations and help at the official transaction guide. Transaction guide.

Firmware updates, maintenance & support

Ledger periodically releases firmware updates for security improvements and new features. Ledger Live will notify you — only install updates through Ledger Live and verify prompts on the device. If you encounter problems, Ledger’s official support resources and knowledge base will walk you through troubleshooting steps. Ledger Support.

Recovery drill & contingency planning

Practicing wallet recovery on a spare device is wise. This verifies your backup and builds confidence in the restore process. Also, maintain a contingency plan: decide who (if anyone) will be able to access your funds in the event of incapacity, and document recovery steps securely (without exposing secrets).

Final checklist before first use

Downloaded Ledger Live from official page.
Device authentic and untampered.
PIN set, recovery phrase written and stored offline.
Firmware and apps updated via Ledger Live.
Tested a small send/receive transaction.

Where to get official help

For authoritative guidance, always consult the official Ledger resources: the start guide at Ledger.com/Start, the Ledger Live page, the support center and the knowledge base. Avoid community suggestions that contradict official documentation without verification.