Welcome to Ledger.com/Start® — Your simple guide to getting started
Why start with Ledger?
Ledger hardware wallets provide a dramatically safer way to store your private keys compared to keeping them on an exchange or a phone. Whether you're just beginning with Bitcoin and Ethereum or you're consolidating a larger portfolio, Ledger's offline key storage makes it far more difficult for attackers to reach your funds. This guide is written to help you move from zero to confident — from opening your box to making your first secure transaction.
What you'll learn in this guide
- How to unbox and set up your Ledger device safely.
- Security fundamentals you should never skip.
- How to install apps and manage accounts with Ledger Live.
- Tips for backups and recovering your wallet if needed.
- Frequently asked questions (FAQ) to clear common blockers.
Unboxing & first steps (H2)
Inspect the package (H3)
When your Ledger arrives, check that the security seals are intact and the box matches the official Ledger packaging you expected. Ledger devices are shipped with tamper-evident stickers — if anything looks off, contact Ledger support before powering on the device.
Power up & pick a PIN (H3)
Follow the included quick-start guide: connect your Ledger to your computer or mobile using the supplied cable, then create a PIN. Choose a PIN you can remember but that is not trivially guessable. Do not store your PIN digitally in a cloud note — treat it like a password.
Write down your Recovery Phrase (H4)
Ledger will show you a 24-word recovery phrase (sometimes 12/18/24 depending on model). This is the most important piece of data — it recreates your wallet. Write it down on the supplied recovery sheet (or a steel backup if you prefer physical resilience). Store this sheet offline in a secure location. Never photograph or type your recovery phrase on an internet-connected device.
Confirm your Recovery Phrase (H4)
After writing the phrase down, Ledger will ask you to confirm some words. This is normal and ensures you copied the phrase correctly. Double-check spelling and order.
Install Ledger Live & apps (H2)
Ledger Live is the official companion app (desktop & mobile). It helps you manage multiple cryptocurrency accounts, install apps on-device, and send/receive coins.
Download safely (H3)
Always download Ledger Live from the official site. Don't install third-party packages that claim to be Ledger Live. If in doubt, type the address into your browser yourself or follow a link bookmarked earlier.
Install coin apps on the device (H3)
Once Ledger Live is installed, open the Manager and install apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) to your device. Installing an app does not move funds — it simply enables the device to manage that currency.
Top security tips (H2)
Never share your seed or PIN (H3)
Ledger staff, support, or any legitimate service will never ask for your recovery phrase or PIN. Any request for those is a scam.
Use a passphrase for extra protection (H3)
Advanced users can add an optional passphrase to their recovery phrase. It acts as a "25th word" and creates an extra, separate wallet. Only use this if you understand how passphrases and backups interact.
Keep firmware up to date (H3)
Ledger periodically releases firmware updates that improve security and features. Apply firmware updates only when connected to Ledger Live and follow on-screen instructions carefully.
Managing transactions (H2)
When sending crypto, verify destination addresses carefully on your Ledger device screen — not just in the desktop/mobile app. The on-device confirmation is the final trustable view of the address.
Receiving funds (H4)
Use the "Receive" flow in Ledger Live to generate an address. Always confirm the address on your device before sharing it to receive funds.
Fees & speed (H4)
Different networks and times of day affect fees. Ledger Live often provides fee presets: slow, medium, fast. Choose based on urgency and cost sensitivity.
Best practices for backups & disaster recovery (H2)
Multiple backups (H3)
Consider keeping more than one backup of your recovery phrase in geographically separated secure locations (for example, a safe deposit box and a home safe).
Steel backups (H3)
Paper can degrade, burn, or get wet. For long-term security, consider a steel backup plate that resists fire, water, and corrosion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) — Structured with headings H1 → H5
Q1: How do I know my Ledger is authentic? (H3)
Answer (H4)
Ensure packaging and tamper seals look correct and download Ledger Live only from the official site. If something looks suspicious — stop and contact support.
Q2: Can I recover my wallet if I lose my device? (H3)
Answer (H4)
Yes — use your 24-word recovery phrase to restore your wallet on another Ledger or a compatible wallet that supports the same standards (BIP39/BIP44/BIP32).
Q3: Are Ledger devices safe for long-term storage? (H3)
Answer (H4)
Yes. Hardware wallets like Ledger are considered the gold standard for long-term cold storage because private keys never leave the device.
Q4: What if I forget my PIN? (H3)
Answer (H4)
If you forget your PIN, you can reset the device and restore it using your recovery phrase. That is why keeping the recovery phrase secure is critical.
Q5: Can Ledger Live be used on multiple devices? (H3)
Answer (H4)
Yes — Ledger Live can be installed on multiple computers or phones. Your accounts are derived from the hardware device, so you still need your Ledger device (and seed) to sign transactions.
H5: Advanced — Using passphrase safely (H5)
If you choose a passphrase, record it securely. Losing the passphrase and the seed means permanent loss of funds. Test your recovery process on a small amount first.
10 office links & quick resources (colorful, useful)
Below are sample "office" resource links you can use for documentation, team onboarding, or internal SOPs. Replace these placeholders with your real internal links as needed.
Final checklist before you go live (H2)
- Confirm recovery phrase is written and stored securely.
- Verify your device firmware is current and legitimate.
- Install only official apps via Ledger Live.
- Test a small transaction to ensure you understand the flow.
- Train anyone on your team who will access funds with a SOP and approvals.
Ready to start? Click the button below to open Ledger Live and begin the guided setup. If you need help, consult the FAQ above or reach out to official support channels.
Open Ledger Live — Get started