Get started with Ledger* | Ledger.com/start

A concise, expert-backed walkthrough to set up your Ledger hardware wallet, install Ledger Live, initialize your device, secure your recovery seed, and verify authenticity for best-in-class cold storage.

Why use a Ledger hardware wallet?

Ledger devices store private keys inside a certified secure element and keep signing operations offline — a cornerstone of cold storage and the safest way to protect Bitcoin, Ethereum and other assets from online theft.

Quick checklist — before you begin

  • Official Ledger hardware (e.g., Nano S Plus, Nano X) — buy only from ledger.com or authorized resellers.
  • A clean computer or mobile device and a reliable internet connection for downloading Ledger Live.
  • USB cable (or Bluetooth for Nano X) and a pen + paper for writing your recovery seed.
  • Time and a quiet place — do not rush the recovery phrase step.

Step-by-step: Set up your Ledger (fast, safe)

1. Start at the official hub

Open your browser and go directly to ledger.com/start — this hub links to the correct Ledger Live downloads and model-specific instructions.

2. Download Ledger Live (desktop or mobile)

From the hub, download Ledger Live for your platform (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android). Verify you are on the official download page before running installers.

3. Unbox and inspect your device

Confirm packaging is sealed and the device is untampered. Ledger ships devices in specific sealed packaging — if anything looks altered, contact Ledger Support before proceeding.

4. Initialize the device

  1. Connect the device and power it on following the on-screen prompts.
  2. Choose a secure PIN — memorize it (don’t store it digitally).
  3. Write down the 24-word recovery seed exactly as displayed on the device. Use a pen and the recovery sheet; do not take photos or store the seed online.

5. Verify device authenticity in Ledger Live

Open Ledger Live and follow the genuine-check / authenticity verification steps so Ledger Live confirms your device model and firmware are genuine before you add accounts.

6. Install coin-specific apps & add accounts

In Ledger Live's Manager tab, install the apps you need (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Then add accounts inside Ledger Live — balances and addresses are derived from your device but private keys never leave the secure element.

7. Receiving and sending crypto

To receive: in Ledger Live select an account → Receive → verify the address on your device screen before sharing.
To send: create a transaction in Ledger Live, confirm details on your device, and validate the signature on the physical device.

Security best practices (practical & non-negotiable)

  • Never share your 24-word recovery seed. No legitimate support will ever ask for it.
  • Store your recovery seed offline (fireproof/waterproof metal backup is recommended for long-term storage).
  • Enable a passphrase (optional) for an additional hidden wallet layer if you understand the tradeoffs.
  • Keep device firmware & Ledger Live updated; perform updates only from Ledger Live.
  • Avoid downloading Ledger Live from third-party sites — always use ledger.com/ledger-live-download.
  • Be alert to fake apps & phishing campaigns — if an interface asks for your seed phrase, it’s a scam.
Important security note: In 2024–2025 multiple counterfeit/fake Ledger apps were distributed via malicious campaigns targeting users, especially macOS users. Only use official sources linked above and never enter your recovery seed into any app or website.

Recovery & disaster plan

If your device is lost or damaged, restore access by acquiring a new Ledger device (or a compatible BIP39-compatible device) and using your recovery seed during initialization. If your recovery seed is lost, funds cannot be recovered — keep multiple secure copies in geographically separated, offline locations.

Advanced tips (optional)

  • Use a hardware passphrase to create hidden accounts for plausible deniability.
  • Consider a multisig setup for large holdings using multiple hardware wallets.
  • Use a dedicated, clean computer for initial setup if you suspect malware on your usual device.

FAQs — quick answers

1. Where do I download Ledger Live?
Download Ledger Live only from Ledger’s official hub: ledger.com/start or the direct Ledger Live download page.
2. What is the recovery seed and how many words?
Ledger devices use a 24-word recovery seed (BIP39) that acts as the master backup for all private keys. Write it down offline and store securely.
3. Can I restore my wallet on another device?
Yes — any compatible hardware wallet that accepts the same seed standard or Ledger can restore your accounts using the 24-word seed.
4. What is the secure element?
The secure element is a tamper-resistant chip on Ledger devices that stores private keys and performs cryptographic signing inside the hardware — it never exposes private keys to the host computer.
5. How do I confirm a receive address is safe?
Always confirm the full receive address shown in Ledger Live by checking the address displayed on your Ledger device's screen. Only the device display is the authoritative source.
6. My Ledger asks for firmware update — should I install?
Yes — keep firmware updated through Ledger Live. Follow the onscreen steps and ensure you are connected directly to Ledger Live from the official download hub.

Where to get help & learn more

Official resources: Ledger Start hub, Ledger Support, and Ledger Academy for tutorials and deep dives.