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Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® — Getting Started

Official Site® — Ledger.com/Start®

Getting started with Ledger: quick setup, essential security, and everyday management for your crypto.

Welcome

This official guide walks you through the recommended steps to set up your Ledger device, secure your recovery, and use Ledger Live safely. It’s written for new users but includes notes for advanced features. Follow official links at ledger.com/start for downloads and firmware updates.

Why use a hardware wallet?

Hardware wallets keep your private keys offline in a tamper-resistant chip. When you sign transactions, the signing happens on-device — the private key never touches your computer or the internet. This reduces the risk of theft from malware, phishing, and compromised software wallets.

Good fit for:

  • Anyone holding crypto beyond small daily amounts.
  • Investors storing assets long-term.
  • DeFi and NFT users who want a secure signing method for interactions.

Before you start — Quick checklist

  • Buy only from Ledger’s official store or authorized resellers.
  • Have a clean workspace, pen, and the provided recovery sheet ready.
  • Do not store recovery words digitally or take photos.
  • Ensure your computer or phone is up to date and you can download Ledger Live from the official site.

Step-by-step setup

  1. Unbox and inspect: Confirm the package seal and device integrity.
  2. Power on & choose PIN: Follow on-device prompts to set a PIN. Use a memorable but not obvious PIN.
  3. Record recovery phrase: Your device will display a 24-word phrase. Write each word in order on the physical sheet. Store it offline and secure.
  4. Install Ledger Live: Download Ledger Live from ledger.com/start, install it, and follow the onboarding flow to add your device.
  5. Install apps and add accounts: In Ledger Live’s Manager, install the crypto apps you need, then add accounts for each asset type to start managing balances.
  6. Test with a small transfer: Send a small transaction to/from your device to verify everything and confirm addresses on-device before approving.

Security essentials

Good security is mostly about habits. These essentials reduce risk dramatically:

  • Never share your 24-word recovery phrase. Ledger will never ask for it.
  • Never type or photograph recovery words; physical-only is safest.
  • Confirm receiving addresses on the device screen before sending funds.
  • Use Ledger Live official downloads; avoid third-party installers or unofficial guides for critical steps.
  • Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated.

Daily use & features

Send and receive

Generate receive addresses in Ledger Live and verify them on the device. For sends, review the transaction details on-device before approval.

Swap & exchange

Ledger Live integrates exchange partners so you can swap assets without exposing private keys off-device. Fees vary by partner — check the quote before approving.

Staking

For supported networks, stake from Ledger Live to earn rewards while keeping keys offline. Validator choices and reward structures differ by blockchain — read network docs before staking large amounts.

Advanced options

  • Passphrase (optional): Adds an extra secret word to create hidden wallets. Powerful for privacy but risky if forgotten — losing the passphrase means losing access to funds.
  • Third-party wallet integrations: Use Ledger with MetaMask, MyCrypto, and other wallets. Always verify addresses on the Ledger device screen before signing.
  • FIDO2 authentication: Some Ledger models can be used as physical security keys for supported services (passwordless login).

Troubleshooting

  • Device not detected: Try a different USB cable or port; ensure Ledger Live is updated.
  • Forgot PIN: Reset the device and restore with your recovery phrase.
  • Recovery mismatch during restore: Check spelling and word order. If unsure, try restoring on a spare device before transferring funds.

FAQ (short)

What if I lose my Ledger?

If you have your recovery phrase, restore on a new device. If you lost both, funds cannot be recovered.

Can the Ledger be hacked remotely?

The secure element design prevents remote extraction of private keys; social engineering and phishing are the most common attack vectors.

Official resources

  • Ledger.com/start — Ledger Live downloads and official setup pages.
  • Ledger Help Center — step-by-step guides and troubleshooting.
  • Ledger Academy — deep dives on security and crypto basics.

© Official Site® — Ledger.com/Start®. This guide is informational and complements official Ledger documentation. For downloads and firmware updates, always visit ledger.com/start.