Welcome to the official guide to set up and use your Ledger device. Let’s get started.
In today’s digital age, securing your cryptocurrency and blockchain assets is more important than ever. The process begins with your hardware wallet—your fortress — and that’s where Ledger.com/start® | Starting® Up® Your® Device® comes in. This guide provides a structured, step‑by‑step walkthrough, from unboxing to first transaction, with clarity and confidence.
Through this walkthrough, you will not only complete the basic setup, but also understand the security best practices, backup procedures, and how to troubleshoot typical issues.
When you open your Ledger package, you should find:
Before plugging in your Ledger device, ensure your computer environment is ready:
Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the supplied USB cable. The display should light up, showing the Ledger logo or “Welcome”. This is the first visual confirmation your hardware is powered.
Using the buttons on your device, choose a secure PIN code (4 to 8 digits). Never choose obvious patterns like “1234” or birthdates. You will re‑enter this PIN to confirm. This PIN safeguards the device itself.
The device will display 24 words (the recovery phrase) one by one. Use your recovery sheet to write them down in order. This step is critical: if your device is lost or damaged, this 24‑word seed phrase is your sole way to recover your funds.
After writing, the device will quiz you by asking for certain words (e.g. “word #7” or “word #13”). This confirms you have correctly recorded your recovery phrase. If there is any mismatch, restart the process—accuracy is crucial.
On your computer (or mobile, depending on model), navigate to Ledger.com/start®. Download the Ledger Live software for your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux). Install and launch it. The software will guide you to pair your device.
Within Ledger Live, choose “Initialize as new device” (if it's fresh). Follow prompts to pair with your device, verify firmware, and update it if necessary. Once paired, you can add accounts (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) and begin using your Ledger safely.
Ledger (or any legitimate support) will never ask you to input your 24 words into software, websites, or over chat. Keeping your recovery phrase offline is vital; treat it as your private key.
Store the recovery sheet in a fireproof, waterproof safe or a safe deposit box. Avoid leaving it loose or in obvious places. Some users engrave words on steel plates.
Regularly check for firmware updates via Ledger Live. Updates often patch security vulnerabilities, so staying current is part of your defensive armor.
Always ensure you are visiting legitimate Ledger web pages (look for correct domain names, HTTPS, no typos). Do not click on suspicious links in emails, forums, or chat boxes.
Only install apps on your device that you need (e.g., BTC, ETH). Unused apps should be removed to reduce attack surface. Also, verify that addresses on your device match what the software shows.
If your computer fails to detect the Ledger, try:
If firmware update process halts or fails:
After too many incorrect PIN attempts, the device resets. You must restore using your 24‑word recovery phrase. Be sure you recorded them correctly.
Yes. Once your Ledger device is paired with Ledger Live, you can add multiple accounts (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). You just need to install the corresponding app(s) on your Ledger device and manage them via Ledger Live.
If your Ledger device is lost or damaged, you can recover all your funds using your 24‑word recovery phrase on a new compatible hardware wallet. That’s why writing it correctly and keeping it safe is so crucial.
If you believe someone saw or stole your recovery phrase, you should immediately move your funds to a brand new wallet (with a new recovery phrase). Never reuse a possibly compromised seed.
Yes. Ledger Live is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, and also for iOS and Android. You can use either (or both) to manage your accounts and interact with your Ledger device.
Yes, it is safe as long as you follow official instructions, use the Ledger Live app, and your recovery phrase remains private. Firmware updates often include security improvements. Do not use third‑party tools for the update.