Ledger.com/start® | Starting Up Your Device | Ledger™
Overview
This presentation explains how to safely start up your Ledger hardware wallet, from unboxing to first transaction. It emphasizes security best practices, the role of Ledger Live, and how to keep your recovery phrase safe. Read through each step and follow official Ledger links below for downloads and device-specific instructions.
What you'll need
Essentials
• A Ledger device (Nano S, Nano X, Stax or similar) • A desktop or mobile device with a USB-C/USB cable • A stable internet connection • Pen and the recovery sheet provided in the box (not a photo or cloud note).
Why this matters
Hardware wallets store your private keys offline inside a secure element chip. That makes them one of the safest ways to manage crypto custody. However, good security depends on following the device setup steps exactly and never sharing your recovery phrase with anyone.
Step-by-step setup
1. Unbox and verify
Unbox carefully
Confirm the seal and packaging are intact. Only purchase Ledger devices from the official Ledger store or authorized resellers. If packaging looks tampered with, contact Ledger support immediately via an official channel.
2. Download Ledger Live
Ledger Live - the companion app
Ledger Live is the official app for managing accounts, installing apps on your device, and performing transactions. Download only from ledger.com/ledger-live or the official app stores. Never install Ledger Live from third-party websites.
3. Initialize your device
Create a new device
Follow Ledger Live’s guided onboarding: select your device, choose "Set up as new device" (unless you are restoring from an existing recovery phrase), and create a secure PIN on the hardware device. Remember: a PIN protects local access but not remote phishing attempts.
4. Write down your Recovery Phrase
Critical: paper backup only
The device will show a 24-word recovery phrase (sometimes 12 or 18 depending on model). Write the words exactly in order on the supplied recovery card. Never store the recovery phrase digitally (photos, cloud, text files) and never share it. Ledger will never ask for it.
5. Install crypto apps
Use Manager in Ledger Live
Open Ledger Live’s Manager to install coin-specific apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.). Install only the apps for the assets you plan to manage. Each app uses storage space on the device; remove unused apps to free space.
6. Add accounts and receive test funds
Verify with a small deposit
Create an account in Ledger Live for a chosen coin and receive a small test amount from an exchange or another wallet to confirm everything works. Verify the receiving address on the device display before transferring — that prevents malware from substituting addresses.
Security best practices (short)
Keep firmware & software updated
Always update the device firmware and Ledger Live when official updates are released. Firmware updates improve security and compatibility. Only apply updates initiated by Ledger Live or ledger.com.
Phishing awareness
Phishing attempts often copy Ledger branding and ask for recovery phrases or PINs. Remember: Ledger staff will never ask for your recovery phrase, PIN, or to move funds to "verify" your device. Verify URLs and only use links provided in this document or on ledger.com.
Physical safety
Store your recovery card in a secure physical location such as a safe or a safety deposit box. Consider splitting backups across secure locations if appropriate for your personal risk model.
Troubleshooting & help
Common issues
If Ledger Live cannot detect your device: try a different USB cable/port, make sure the device is unlocked with PIN, and confirm Ledger Live is up-to-date. For restore workflows, follow the official recovery steps in Ledger Live or consult support.
When to contact support
Contact official Ledger support only if you have packaging concerns, device failure, or confusing prompts that you did not expect. Use Ledger’s support portal and verify the site domain before submitting any information.
Official resources (10 links)
Below are ten official Ledger links to key pages — the links are labeled and styled with the presentation color to make them easy to find. Always prefer these official pages for downloads, guides, and support.