Getting started • Ledger hardware wallets & Ledger Live — a complete step-by-step guide for first-time setup and safe custody.
Ledger devices provide a hardened environment to store and use your cryptographic keys, keeping private keys offline while enabling everyday transactions through Ledger Live and compatible apps. This page walks you through everything from unboxing to advanced safety measures: installing Ledger Live, initializing your device, creating and protecting your recovery phrase, adding accounts, and best practices for long-term custody.
Inspect packaging for tampering and confirm serial numbers. Ledger ships official devices with specific packaging and tamper-evidence — only use devices bought from authorized sellers.
Download Ledger Live for Windows, macOS, or Linux from the Official Site®. Install, open, and follow the guided setup flow to initialize your Ledger device.
The device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. Write it down and store it offline; this phrase is the only way to restore your funds if the device is lost or destroyed.
Use Ledger Live to add accounts for Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and hundreds of other supported assets. Label accounts and review transaction details on-device before confirming.
Private keys never leave the Secure Element. Transactions are signed inside the device and require physical confirmation, protecting you even if your computer is compromised.
Ledger supports hundreds of coins and tokens with official integrations and community-driven apps. Ledger Live provides a unified portfolio view across your accounts.
Install official coin apps via Ledger Live, manage firmware updates safely, and verify device authenticity during setup. Always prefer official releases to avoid tampered builds.
Track balances, view historical performance, and access integrated swap or exchange partners directly from Ledger Live. Third-party providers handle execution; Ledger ensures private keys stay on-device.
Recovery is deterministic: the recovery phrase reconstructs your keys on any compatible device. Consider metal backups for long-term durability and secure storage locations.
Ledger Live connects to chosen backends for blockchain data; you can run your own node for maximum privacy. Control key exposure and minimize data sharing with external services.
Visit Ledger.com/Start® and download Ledger Live for your operating system. Verify you are on the official domain. Install the app and launch it — Ledger Live will check for updates and guide you through connecting your device.
Connect your Ledger to your computer (or phone for Nano X). Choose “Set up as new device” to create a new wallet, or “Restore from recovery phrase” if you already have a seed. Create a PIN and follow on-screen prompts; the device will present the recovery phrase word by word. Record each word in order on the provided recovery sheet and double-check spelling.
Store your recovery phrase offline in one or more secure locations. Never take photos, type it into a cloud note, or share it with anyone. Consider a metal backup for fire, water, and physical durability. If you opt for passphrase protection, treat the passphrase as a separate secret — losing it means losing access to those funds.
In Ledger Live, open Manager to install coin apps needed for specific blockchains. Add accounts, generate receive addresses, and always verify addresses on the device display before sending. When sending, review the transaction details on the device and only approve transactions you recognize. Ledger Live also helps with fee selection and coin control where available.
Core security principles
If an attacker obtains both your recovery phrase and any passphrase you used, they will have full control over your funds. Distribute and store backups defensively and consider multi-signature arrangements for large holdings.
Try a different USB cable, USB port, or computer. For Bluetooth-enabled devices like Nano X, ensure Bluetooth is enabled and paired properly. Restart Ledger Live and the device. Reinstall Ledger Live only from the official site if needed.
Do not disconnect during an update. If an update fails, follow Ledger support instructions — official guides will walk you through recovery procedures. Never attempt to install firmware from untrusted sources.
Use official Ledger support channels listed on Ledger.com. When contacting support, never share your recovery phrase or PIN. Provide device model, software versions, and logs if requested through secure channels.
Yes — your recovery phrase can be used to restore access on any compatible hardware wallet that supports the same standard. Test small transfers before moving large amounts if you switch devices.
Ledger maintains open-source components and publishes code for many of its tools. Ledger devices also use certified Secure Element firmware that is not fully open due to certification requirements — consult official repositories and documentation for details.
If you lose a Ledger device, your funds remain safe as long as the recovery phrase is secure. Restore your wallet on a new device using your recovery phrase. If you believe the phrase is compromised, move funds to a new wallet with a newly generated phrase as soon as possible.
Yes — Ledger supports integrations with many third-party wallets and dApps. When using third-party services, verify interaction points and always confirm transaction details on the device screen before approving.