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

Quick start — the essentials

This guide covers the recommended flow for new Ledger users: unbox, initialize, secure your recovery phrase, install apps, and connect with Ledger Live or compatible software. If you already own a device and just want to restore from a recovery phrase, skip to the restore section below.

1. 1. Unbox and inspect

   Confirm packaging is sealed and the device looks undamaged. Only use Ledger.com/Start® or the official Ledger Live app for setup — avoid third-party links and unsolicited setup assistance.

2. 2. Power on and choose "Set up as new device"

   Follow on-device instructions. Create a new PIN when prompted — choose 4 to 8 digits you can remember but that aren’t trivial (avoid easy sequences like 1234).

3. 3. Write down your recovery phrase (24 words)

   Your device will display a 24-word recovery phrase. Write it down on the provided recovery sheet (or a metal backup). Do not take a photo, store it digitally, or share it with anyone. This phrase restores access to your funds.

4. 4. Confirm recovery phrase on device

   The device will ask you to confirm several words. This ensures you recorded them correctly.

5. 5. Install Ledger Live and add accounts

   Download Ledger Live from the official site and follow the desktop or mobile installer. In Ledger Live, go to Manager to add currency-specific apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.).

6. 6. Receive a small test transaction

   Before moving large amounts, send a small test deposit to your new address to confirm everything is working end-to-end.

7. 7. Create a secure backup strategy

   Store your recovery phrase in at least two physically separate, secure places (e.g., a home safe and a bank safe deposit box or a metal backup). Consider using fireproof/waterproof storage and avoid obvious labels like “crypto seed.”

Detailed setup — expanded guidance

Below are practical tips to avoid common mistakes and to maximize long-term security and usability.

PIN selection & device lock

Choose a PIN that balances memorability and unpredictability. Ledger devices include a lockout mechanism after multiple incorrect attempts — this protects your device in case of theft. If your device is lost or stolen, your funds remain protected as long as the recovery phrase is secret.

Handling your recovery phrase

Three golden rules:

• Never share the phrase with anyone — legitimate services never ask for it.
• Never type or photograph the phrase — digital copies are targetable by malware.
• Test your backup by restoring to a separate device (optional, but best practice) to confirm the phrase was recorded correctly.

Installing apps and managing accounts

Ledger Live’s Manager allows installing apps for different blockchains. Each app consumes a small portion of device memory; you can remove and reinstall apps without losing funds (the accounts are derived from your recovery phrase). When adding accounts, pick the correct network and double-check receiving addresses before sharing them.

Restore from an existing recovery phrase

If you already have a 24-word recovery phrase (or 12/18 words for some older setups), choose Restore device during setup and carefully enter words in order. After restoring, install the required apps and add corresponding accounts in Ledger Live.

Advanced tips

Passphrase (optional): Ledger supports an optional passphrase (adds a 25th 'hidden' word). It can increase security but also increases responsibility—if you forget the passphrase you can permanently lose access. Use only if you fully understand the implications.

Using with third-party wallets

Ledger devices act as a secure signer. You can use them with many wallets (e.g., MetaMask, MyEtherWallet) — always follow official guides and verify addresses locally on the device before approving transactions.

Keeping firmware and software updated

Regularly update device firmware and Ledger Live to receive security improvements. Only update using official releases from the Ledger website or Ledger Live — never run unofficial firmware.

Common troubleshooting

My device won't power on

Ensure the USB cable is functional and connected to a powered port. Try a different cable or computer port. If problems persist, contact official support channels.

I lost my recovery phrase — what now?

If you lose the phrase and still have access to your unlocked device, move funds to a new wallet immediately and generate a new recovery phrase. If you lose both device and phrase, funds are irrecoverable.

Can I store my recovery phrase digitally?

Strongly discouraged. Digital storage (photos, cloud drives, notes) creates attack surface for hackers and malware.

Security checklist (print-friendly)

• ✅ Unbox and confirm sealed packaging
• ✅ Set a strong PIN
• ✅ Write down 24 words on paper/metal
• ✅ Confirm recovery phrase on device
• ✅ Install Ledger Live from the official site
• ✅ Send a small test transaction
• ✅ Store backups in two secure physical locations

Sample HTML snippet (button + CTA)

If you're building a landing page or help article, use this accessible CTA snippet:

<a href="https://ledger.com/start" class="btn btn-primary" role="button">Get started with Ledger.com/Start®</a>

Legal & safety notes

This guide is educational and not financial advice. Trademarked terms used here (e.g., Official Site®, Ledger.com/Start®) belong to their respective owners. Always verify links and downloads with official channels before proceeding.