Ledger.com/Start® — Getting started

Official setup & onboarding guide for Ledger Nano devices — step-by-step installation of Ledger Live™, device initialization, recovery best practices, account management, and security tips.

Start here — what this guide covers

This guide walks you through everything you need to know to get your Ledger hardware wallet up and running in minutes. We cover checking packaging, installing Ledger Live™, setting your PIN, writing your recovery phrase, adding accounts, sending/receiving funds, and crucial long-term safety practices.

1. Unboxing & authenticity

When your Ledger device arrives, verify packaging and tamper-evidence. Ledger devices ship with secure seals and genuine packaging; if anything looks swollen, broken, or suspicious, stop and contact official support.

  • Confirm the tamper-evident seal is intact.
  • Only buy from authorized channels — official store or trusted retailers.
  • Never accept a device already configured by someone else.

2. Install Ledger Live™ (official companion app)

Ledger Live is the secure companion app used to manage assets while private keys remain on your hardware device. Download Ledger Live only from the official site and install the version suitable for your operating system.

Download tip: Always navigate to the official domain for Ledger Live installation. Avoid third-party downloads.

Go to Ledger.com/Start®

3. Setting up your Ledger device

Create a PIN

Power on your device, follow on-screen prompts, and choose a secure PIN. The PIN protects physical access — pick something memorable but not trivial.

Write your recovery phrase (24 words)

The device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is the only way to restore your wallets if the device is lost or damaged.

  • Write the words on the supplied recovery sheet — do not store electronically.
  • Never share the words with anyone or enter them into websites.
  • Consider secure redundancy (e.g., two separate physical locations or metal backup kits).

Verify your device

Ledger Live will verify device authenticity and that the firmware is genuine. Approve firmware updates only when prompted by Ledger Live and always confirm details directly on the device screen.

4. Add accounts and install blockchain apps

Each blockchain (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.) requires a dedicated app installed on the Ledger device. Ledger Live orchestrates app installation and account creation safely.

  • Open Ledger Live & connect your device.
  • Use the Manager tab to install necessary blockchain apps.
  • Add accounts in Ledger Live to start receiving funds.

5. Sending & receiving crypto

Always verify destination addresses both in Ledger Live and on your device. When sending, the device displays the exact address and amount — confirm before approving.

  • Test with a small transaction first.
  • Double-check memo/tags for blockchains that require them (e.g., XRP, XLM).
  • For large transfers, consider using multiple small transactions or cold storage practices.

6. Security best practices

Security is a layered approach — device, recovery phrase, software, and personal habits.

  • Never share your recovery phrase or enter it into apps/websites.
  • Enable a strong, unique PIN and keep device firmware up to date.
  • Use official Ledger software only; verify site URLs and certificates.
  • Consider hardware backups for recovery phrases (metal backups are recommended).
Important: Ledger support will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase. Anything requesting those words is a scam.

7. Advanced usage & integrations

Ledger devices integrate with many third-party wallets and Web3 applications while keeping your private keys offline.

  • Connect to decentralized apps through Ledger Live or compatible wallet connectors.
  • Stake eligible assets directly in Ledger Live to earn rewards while keeping keys secure.
  • Use passphrase features (advanced) to create hidden wallets — only recommended if you understand the risk model.

Frequently asked questions

Can I recover my crypto if I lose my device?
Yes — with your 24-word recovery phrase you can restore wallets on a new Ledger device or compatible recovery software/hardware.
Is Ledger Live free?
Yes. Ledger Live is free to download and use. Some integrated services (swap, buy, staking) may have fees set by third parties.
What if I forgot my PIN?
If you forget your PIN, you must reset the device and restore from your recovery phrase. Keeping the recovery phrase secure is critical.
How often should I update firmware?
Install device firmware updates when Ledger Live prompts you. Updates can include security hardening and new features.

Final checklist — before you go live

  • Verified device authenticity and sealed packaging.
  • Downloaded Ledger Live from the official site.
  • Created a strong PIN and written your 24-word recovery phrase offline.
  • Installed blockchain apps and added accounts in Ledger Live.
  • Tested a small transaction before sending large amounts.

When in doubt, consult official documentation or contact Ledger Support through the official website.