Ledger.com/start — Get Started with Your Ledger Device

A friendly, colorful, step-by-step presentation to help you unbox, secure, and use your Ledger hardware wallet safely.

Why use a Ledger device?

Hardware wallets like Ledger keep your private keys offline and protected. They add a crucial layer of security to storing cryptocurrencies and NFTs: even if your computer is compromised, the signing keys remain on the device. This guide leads you through the first-time setup, best practices, and links to official resources so you can get confident and secure quickly.

Start: ledger.com/start Official guide: ledger.com/start

Quick setup steps

1. Unbox and inspect

Open the package and verify the tamper-evident seal. Make sure the device model matches what you ordered and that accessories (USB cable, recovery sheets) are present.

What to look for

Unbroken seal, neat packaging, Ledger branding. If anything appears tampered with, contact the seller or Ledger support before proceeding.

2. Visit the official start page

Open ledger.com/start on your computer to download Ledger Live and follow the official instructions. Using the official site prevents phishing and ensures you have the correct, signed software.

Download Ledger Live

Choose the correct OS version (Windows / macOS / Linux). Install and run Ledger Live — it will guide you step-by-step.

3. Initialize your device

Plug in the Ledger and follow the on-screen prompts. You’ll choose to create a new wallet or restore from an existing recovery phrase.

PIN and passphrase

Set a strong PIN (not easy to guess). Optionally use a passphrase for an extra hidden-wallet layer — treat it like an additional secret.

4. Secure your recovery phrase

Write the 24-word recovery phrase on the provided recovery sheet. Never store it digitally, never share it. This phrase is the master key — anyone who has it controls your funds.

Best practices

Physical copies

Keep multiple copies in separate secure locations (safe deposit box, home safe). Consider metal backups for fire/water resistance.

Install apps & manage accounts

Ledger uses small apps on the device for each blockchain (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Install the apps you need via Ledger Live and add accounts to manage assets. You can install/uninstall apps anytime without losing funds.

Troubleshooting common issues

If your device is not recognized, try a different USB cable or port, reboot your computer, or check for driver updates if you are on Windows. Always confirm Ledger Live is the latest version. For persistent issues, use the official support resources on the start page to find step-by-step fixes and contact options.

Firmware updates and cautions

Firmware updates patch security and add features. Only accept firmware updates while following Ledger Live instructions and verifying update prompts on the device screen. Never accept unsolicited instructions from social media or unknown support channels—when in doubt, consult the official start page at ledger.com/start.

When to restore

Restore your wallet from the 24-word recovery phrase only on a verified Ledger device or a secure offline environment. If your device is lost, stolen, or damaged, a new Ledger device plus your recovery phrase will restore access to funds. If you suspect your phrase was exposed, move assets to a new wallet with a fresh seed immediately.

Sharing responsibly

Only share public addresses for receiving funds. Avoid sharing transaction history that might reveal patterns if privacy is a concern. Use a new receiving address for large payments when possible.

FAQ — quick answers

Can Ledger recover my lost funds?

Ledger can help with device issues but cannot recover funds if someone else has your recovery phrase or if it was lost without a backup. The recovery phrase itself is the only universal backup.

Is it safe to buy Ledger second-hand?

Buying second-hand is risky unless you are sure the device was factory-reset and seals are intact. Prefer buying new from official retailers or Ledger’s store to reduce risk.

Extra resources

For advanced security, explore multisignature setups, custody solutions for institutional needs, and third-party audited tools compatible with Ledger devices. All such integration guides are referenced from the official start page.

Important safety tips

  1. Never share your recovery phrase or PIN.
  2. Only download Ledger Live from the official start page: ledger.com/start.
  3. Beware of phishing sites and fake support accounts.
  4. Use a strong, unique PIN and consider a passphrase.
  5. Keep firmware updated but confirm updates on the official Ledger channels.

If someone asks for your 24-word phrase claiming to be support, it is a scam — Ledger or legitimate support will never request these words.

Advanced: passphrase, multiple accounts, and recovery

Passphrase (optional)

Adding a passphrase creates an extra hidden wallet derived from the same seed. It boosts security but increases responsibility: losing the passphrase means losing access.

Multiple accounts

You can create multiple accounts per currency in Ledger Live. Label them clearly and back up any custom settings.

Recovery drill

Practice a recovery drill on a spare device if possible: this ensures your backup methods work without risking main funds.

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All links above point to the official Ledger start page for downloads, support, and step-by-step walkthroughs.