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

Introduction

This comprehensive getting-started blog walks you through the essentials of initializing your Ledger hardware wallet, protecting your recovery phrase, installing the Ledger Live app, and best practices for long-term cryptocurrency security. Wherever the guide references the official setup or downloads, we link it directly to the Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® so you can follow the vendor-approved flow.

Who this guide is for

This guide is written for general users taking their first steps with a Ledger device, including:

• Users who just purchased a Ledger hardware wallet and want a clear path to set it up.
• People who are new to self-custody and want to understand the recovery phrase and security implications.
• Anyone who prefers a step-by-step walkthrough with clear headings, code-like visual cues, and links to official resources at Ledger.com/Start®.

What you’ll need before you begin

Gather these items to make the setup smooth and secure:

• Your unopened Ledger device (check packaging and tamper-evidence).
• A computer or smartphone with an internet connection.
• A secure, private location to write down your recovery phrase (paper backup, metal backup plate optional).
• 10–20 minutes of uninterrupted time to complete the first setup steps.

Why use the official site?

Using Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® ensures you download the latest Ledger Live application, follow vendor-verified safety checks, and get the most up-to-date instructions for your particular model. Avoid third-party downloads or links shared in random forums to reduce phishing risk.

Step 1 — Unbox and inspect

Visual checks

When you open the box, check for the following:

• Untampered seals and original packaging.
• Ledger device in the expected protective sleeve.
• Instruction card and recovery materials included.

If anything looks suspicious, stop and contact support through the official site: https://www.ledger.com/start.

Step 2 — Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official companion app for managing accounts, installing apps on your device, and performing updates. Download it only from the official start page: Ledger.com/Start®.

Step 3 — Initialize your device

Turn on your Ledger device and follow the on-screen steps. Choose whether you are creating a new wallet or restoring from an existing recovery phrase.

Create a new wallet

If you choose to create a new wallet, the device will generate a recovery phrase for you. This recovery phrase is the single most important secret — treat it like gold.

What is the recovery phrase?

The recovery phrase (sometimes called a seed phrase) is a sequence of 12, 18, or 24 words. It is the master key to your cryptocurrencies. If someone else obtains your phrase, they can access your funds. If you lose the phrase, you may permanently lose access to your holdings.

Step 4 — Securely store your recovery phrase

Write the words down on the provided sheet (or use a metal backup plate for extra durability). Do not store the phrase digitally (no photos, no cloud notes, no text files).

Step 5 — Install apps and add accounts

On Ledger devices you install cryptocurrency apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) which enable account management. Use Ledger Live to add accounts once the corresponding app is installed on the device.

Adding your first account

1. Open Ledger Live and go to "Manager" to install desired apps.
2. Open the installed app on your device.
3. In Ledger Live, click "Add account", select the currency, and follow the prompts.

Step 6 — Sending and receiving funds

Receiving is straightforward: create a receive address in Ledger Live and verify the address on your device screen before sharing it. For sending, create the transaction in Ledger Live and confirm amounts and destination addresses on the device itself.

Confirm everything on-device

One of the main security features of hardware wallets is on-device confirmation. Always confirm addresses, amounts, and fees on the physical device screen before approving. This protects you from malware on your computer attempting to change transaction details.

Safety checklist

• Only download Ledger Live from Ledger.com/Start®.
• Never reveal your recovery phrase to anyone.
• Verify device firmware updates via Ledger Live Manager and the official site.
• Keep your device’s PIN secret and choose a secure PIN you can remember.

Advanced tips

Advanced users may create multiple accounts, use passphrase protection (hidden wallets), or integrate with third-party wallets for DeFi. Passphrase protection is powerful but riskier if you forget the passphrase — losing it means losing access to the hidden wallets.

What is a passphrase?

A passphrase is an additional word or phrase appended to your recovery phrase to create a separate hidden vault. Use it only if you understand the trade-offs and keep a secure record of the passphrase itself. Documentation and guidance are on the official start page: Ledger.com/Start®.

Troubleshooting common issues

Problems can include connectivity issues, app installation errors, or firmware update interruptions. Always consult the official support resources before trying advanced recovery techniques.

Connectivity problems

If Ledger Live cannot detect your device:

• Try a different USB cable or USB port — many cables are power-only.
• Ensure the device is unlocked and the correct app is open.
• Restart Ledger Live and your computer or smartphone.

Firmware & update issues

If an update fails, do not unplug the device immediately. Read the guidance on the official start page and Ledger Live. Ledger provides detailed recovery steps and support at Official Site®.

Visual reference — colorful quick guide

HTML snippet (example link to official start page)

<a href="https://www.ledger.com/start" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start®</a>

Glossary

Hardware wallet

A physical device that stores cryptographic keys offline to sign transactions safely.

Recovery phrase

The human-readable series of words that restores access to your wallet.

Ledger Live

The official desktop and mobile application for managing Ledger devices.

Extra resources

For official downloads, step-by-step guides, and the knowledge base, visit the official start page: https://www.ledger.com/start. We repeat this link across the guide to emphasize safety — always verify you are on the official domain before downloading or entering any sensitive information.

Printable quick checklist

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Can support ever ask for my recovery phrase?

No. Official support will never ask for your recovery phrase. If someone asks, treat it as a phishing attempt and report it via the official site: Official Site®.

Is it safe to buy second-hand?

Buying a pre-owned device increases risk. If you choose to, reset the device to factory settings and initialize it yourself. Prefer buying from the official store or authorized resellers listed on the official site: Ledger.com/Start®.

Conclusion

Self-custody is empowering but comes with responsibility. Using the official resources at Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® and following secure practices — writing down your recovery phrase, verifying on-device confirmations, and keeping backups offline — dramatically reduces risk and helps you manage your crypto with confidence.