Get started with Ledger

1. What you'll need

Essentials

Before you begin, gather: your Ledger device (Nano S / Nano X / Stax / Flex), the original USB cable, a computer or smartphone, and a quiet place to write down your recovery phrase. Do not proceed using a public or shared computer.

Checklist

• Ledger hardware device (boxed, unopened)
• Computer or phone with internet
• Paper and pen (for recovery phrase)
• Ledger Live app (download from official site)

2. Download Ledger Live (official app)

Why Ledger Live?

Ledger Live is the official desktop & mobile app that lets you install apps on your device, manage accounts, and send/receive crypto. Always download Ledger Live from ledger.com to avoid fake installers.

Download Ledger Live

3. First-time device setup

Initialize your Ledger

Unbox your Ledger and connect it to your computer or phone. During onboarding you will:

1. Create a PIN on the device (do not reuse obvious PINs).
2. Write down the 24-word Secret Recovery Phrase exactly as shown — order matters.
3. Confirm the words when prompted.

Key safety rules (H3 → H4 emphasis)

• Never share your 24 words or type them into a website or app.
• Store your recovery sheet in a secure, offline place (safe, deposit box).
• Consider redundant backups (multiple geographically separated copies).

Common pitfalls

Do not photograph the recovery phrase. Do not store it in cloud storage, email, or on your phone. Ledger will never ask you for the 24 words — if a site or person asks, it’s a scam.

4. Add accounts & apps

Install crypto apps on the device

Open Ledger Live, go to the Manager tab and install the apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.) you need. Each app consumes device storage — remove apps you don’t use.

Adding accounts

In Ledger Live, use Accounts → Add account to create portfolio entries. Ledger Live reads the public addresses from your device so private keys never leave the hardware.

5. Receiving, sending, and verifying transactions

Receive crypto

Use Ledger Live to display a receive address and verify it on the device screen. Only send funds to addresses you verified on your Ledger device.

Send crypto

Compose transactions in Ledger Live and approve them on your device. Always confirm the destination address and amount on the device display before approving.

Extra safety (H3 → H4)

For large transfers, send a small test amount first to confirm the destination is correct.

6. Backups, recovery & Ledger Recovery Key

Recovery from your 24-word phrase

If your device is lost or damaged you can restore access using your 24-word phrase on a new compatible device or supported wallet that accepts BIP39/SLIP39 words.

Ledger Recovery Key (optional)

Ledger now offers additional recovery options (Ledger Recovery Key) for eligible devices — read the official Ledger documentation for details if you want this optional backup.

7. Keep firmware and software up to date

Install official firmware updates when available and update Ledger Live regularly. Always download updates from ledger.com or via Ledger Live itself.

When in doubt

If you ever see unexpected prompts, unfamiliar apps, or suspicious messages during setup, stop and consult Ledger’s support pages before proceeding.

8. Best practices & operational security

Operational tips

• Use a strong, unique PIN and enable device passphrase features only if you understand them.
• Consider hardware backups and store them offline.
• Use the official Ledger support center for questions.

For organizations

Consider multisig or institutional custody patterns for larger holdings; Ledger provides developer and enterprise resources for more complex setups.