A practical, step‑by‑step walkthrough to get your Ledger hardware wallet up and running safely. This guide is formatted for clarity and quick reference — use headings to skim and the colorful quick links to jump straight to the official start page.
This guide explains everything required to set up a Ledger hardware wallet from first unboxing through initial security checks and common troubleshooting. It assumes you have a Ledger device on hand and an internet‑connected computer or smartphone. Follow the official start page at the colorful quick links below when you need the manufacturer’s downloads or updates.
Ledger is a hardware wallet that stores private keys offline in a secure element. By keeping keys off an internet‑connected device, Ledger dramatically reduces the risk of remote theft. This guide emphasizes safe setup practices so you can maintain custody of your crypto with confidence.
Anyone new to hardware wallets, or users who want a clean, reliable checklist to set up a Ledger device securely.
Check the box contents and packaging for tamper indicators. Ledger packages are sealed — if the seal is broken or anything looks suspicious, do not set up the device and contact the seller or Ledger Support via the official start page links below.
ledger.com/start. Third‑party downloads can be malicious.Follow the device prompts to power on and select Set up as new device. You’ll be asked to choose a PIN. Pick a PIN that is long enough to be practical but memorable for you, and avoid obvious sequences like 1234 or repeated digits.
The device will display a recovery phrase (usually 24 words). Write each word in order on the recovery card — this is the only backup of your private keys. Store the card in a secure, offline location such as a safe or a safety deposit box.
If your device is lost, stolen, or damaged, the recovery phrase lets you recover access on a new device. Anyone with the phrase has complete control — treat it like the keys to a safe deposit box.
Visit a colorful link above (they all go to the same official page) to download Ledger Live on desktop or mobile. Ledger Live manages apps and accounts for supported cryptocurrencies. Install only what you need to keep attack surface minimal.
Open Ledger Live, connect your device, and add the cryptocurrency accounts you plan to use. Ledger Live will prompt for the device confirmations for each transaction you authorize.
Do not photograph, screenshot, or copy the recovery phrase into a cloud note. Digital copies are vulnerable to malware and cloud provider breaches.
Ledger periodically releases firmware updates to address security improvements. Only update firmware through Ledger Live and the official start page. Firmware updates require device confirmation — never proceed if something looks unexpected.
For advanced users, a passphrase (a 25th word) can create an additional hidden wallet. This adds complexity and responsibility — losing the passphrase means losing access to funds. Consider carefully before enabling.
Try a different USB port or cable, ensure Ledger Live is up to date, and confirm the device is powered. For Bluetooth models, confirm pairing consent on both devices.
If you did not write down the recovery phrase during setup and still have the device, you should reset and set up again to capture the recovery phrase. If you no longer have the device and did not record the phrase, recovery is not possible.
If you have doubts about tampering, shipping, or functionality, contact Ledger Support via any of the official start links above for verified assistance.
Perform a small test send (a tiny amount) to ensure you understand signing flows. Always confirm the transaction details on the device screen before approving.