Get Started with Ledger – Official Ledger.com/Start Hub
Why choose a Ledger hardware wallet?
Using a hardware wallet like Ledger provides a strong, proven layer of protection between your private keys and the internet. Your private keys never leave the secure element on the device — they stay isolated even while you transact. For beginners and experienced holders alike, Ledger offers a reliable path to self-custody: peace of mind, interoperability with many blockchains and apps, and a simple UX via Ledger Live.
What this guide covers
- Unboxing and initial setup (step-by-step)
- Installing and using Ledger Live
- Firmware updates and security best practices
- Backing up and recovering your seed phrase
- Troubleshooting common problems and FAQ
Audience
Ideal for new Ledger users looking for a clear, friendly, and secure way to get started. No prior hardware wallet experience required.
Quick start checklist
Unbox & verify
Confirm packaging integrity and verify you purchased from an official retailer. Counterfeit devices are rare but possible — always buy from trusted sources.
Initialize device
Power on the device, set a secure PIN, and write down your recovery phrase on the supplied recovery sheet. This is the one-time backup you'll need if your device is lost.
Install Ledger Live
Download Ledger Live from the official site (ledger.com/ledger-live), install it, and follow the on-screen instructions to add accounts.
Update firmware & apps
Keep firmware up to date and install only the apps for the blockchains you plan to use — fewer apps = less attack surface.
Send / receive test transaction
Always test with a small amount first to confirm everything works — then move larger sums.
Important safety rules (do these first)
Rule 1 — Your seed is sacred
Write your recovery phrase on paper (or a metal plate) and store it in a physically secure location. Never type it into a computer, phone, or cloud note. Ledger will never ask for it.
Rule 2 — Beware phishing
Always check URLs and never follow links in unsolicited messages. Bookmark https://www.ledger.com/start and other official pages to reduce risk.
Rule 3 — Use a PIN & passphrase
Use a strong PIN for the device. If you want an extra layer, enable a passphrase (advanced) — it creates a hidden wallet derived from your seed phrase.
Step-by-step: Unbox, initialise, and secure your Ledger
Unboxing
When your Ledger arrives, check the tamper-evident packaging. Inside you should find the device (Nano family), a recovery sheet, a USB cable, and quick start materials. Keep the recovery sheet and the box — they are useful if you need to verify serial numbers or restore the kit in the future.
Power on and create a PIN
Power on the device by connecting it to your computer or mobile via the supplied cable. The device will guide you through selecting a PIN code. Choose a PIN you can remember but that is not easily guessable. If you input the wrong PIN multiple times the device will wipe itself — this is an anti-theft safety feature.
Write down your recovery phrase
The device will show a sequence of words (12, 18, or 24 depending on model/settings). This is your recovery phrase (seed). Write each word down, in order, on the recovery sheet. Double-check spelling and order. Store the sheet offline and in a secure place: a safe, a safety deposit box, or a hidden metal backup.
Verify the recovery phrase
Ledger will ask you to confirm words from your seed to ensure you wrote them down correctly. This verification step prevents mistakes that could lead to permanent loss.
Do not share your recovery
Under no circumstance should you share these words. Ledger staff or official support will never ask for your full seed phrase. If anyone asks, it's a scam.
Install & use Ledger Live
Download Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the companion app to manage accounts, install blockchain apps on your device, and make transactions. Download Ledger Live from the official page: ledger.com/ledger-live.
Install your first app
Open Ledger Live, connect your device, unlock with your PIN, and go to the Manager tab. Install only the blockchain apps you need (for example Bitcoin, Ethereum). Apps allow the device to understand and display each blockchain's transaction data without exposing your keys.
Add accounts
In Ledger Live, choose "Add account", select the blockchain, and follow the prompts. Ledger Live will derive public addresses from your device (the private keys remain on the device).
Send and receive
Use the Receive button in Ledger Live to get an address from the device. Verify the address on the device screen before accepting deposits. To send assets, choose an account, click Send, and confirm the transaction details on your device before authorizing.
Pro tip
Always verify amounts and addresses on the device screen, not just in the desktop/mobile app — the device is the final source of truth.
Firmware updates, apps & maintenance
Why firmware matters
Firmware updates often patch security issues and add features. Always update firmware using official Ledger Live instructions. Never install firmware from third-party sources.
How to update
- Open Ledger Live and go to the Manager.
- If a firmware update is available, Ledger Live will prompt you.
- Follow on-screen steps and confirm actions on your device.
App hygiene
Remove unused blockchain apps from the device to conserve storage and reduce risk. You can reinstall apps later via Ledger Live without losing your accounts — your keys are stored in the secure element.
Troubleshooting updates
If Ledger Live shows an error, check your USB cable, try a different port, reboot your computer, or consult the official support center.
Backing up & recovering your wallet
Primary backup: the seed phrase
The recovery phrase is the only reliable backup. If your device is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can recover your funds using the phrase on a new Ledger or any compatible hardware wallet.
Alternative backups
- Metal backup plates (fire & water resistant)
- Split backups (Shamir or multi-location), advanced users only
Recovering a wallet
To restore, choose the "Restore device" option during setup on a new Ledger, and enter the recovery phrase when prompted. After restoring, connect to Ledger Live and re-add accounts.
Safety note
If you ever suspect your seed has been exposed, move funds to a new wallet generated from a fresh seed immediately.
Best practices & advanced tips
Keep software up to date
Ledger Live, OS updates, and device firmware should be kept current. Updates reduce attack surface and fix bugs.
Separate sums
Consider keeping a "hot" small balance for trading and a "cold" larger balance secured by Ledger. This minimizes exposure when interacting with exchanges or third-party apps.
Avoid screen sharing & public Wi-Fi
Never reveal your recovery phrase during calls or over messages. Avoid using public Wi-Fi when performing large transactions.
Use passphrases carefully
A passphrase creates an additional hidden wallet. It's powerful but remember: if you lose the passphrase, the hidden wallet is unrecoverable even with the seed.
Third-party apps
Ledger works with many ecosystem apps (DeFi wallets, staking platforms). Use reputable apps and verify contract addresses; when in doubt, start with small amounts.
FAQ — Common questions
Q: Can Ledger be hacked?
A: The secure element and device design greatly reduce remote hacking risk. Most losses occur due to compromised seeds, phishing, or social engineering — not from hardware vulnerabilities.
Q: What if I lose my Ledger?
A: If you have your recovery phrase, you can restore funds to a new device. If both device and seed are lost, funds are unrecoverable. Store your seed offline.
Q: Can I use Ledger with mobile?
A: Yes. Ledger supports mobile through Ledger Live mobile and select Bluetooth-enabled devices. See official mobile compatibility notes on the Ledger Live page.
Q: Are my NFTs safe?
A: Ledger secures the private keys controlling NFTs. Interacting with NFT marketplaces still requires care: always verify the contract and use a trusted dApp connector.
Troubleshooting common problems
Device not recognized
Try a different USB cable, another port, or a different computer. Ensure Ledger Live is updated and that you have allowed device access if prompted.
Forgot PIN
After multiple wrong PIN attempts the device will reset. Restore using your recovery phrase. If you do not have the phrase, funds are lost.
App installation errors
Check device storage, remove unused apps, and repeat. If an error persists, consult the Ledger Support page for the error code.