Ledger Wallet Setup — Secure your crypto with Ledger.com/Start

A friendly, step-by-step walkthrough to initialize your Ledger hardware wallet, install Ledger Live, and secure your recovery phrase. Colorful, clear, and built for safety-first users.

  1. 1

    Unbox & verify your device

    Make sure your device box is sealed and comes with the official Ledger packaging. Only use the USB cable included in the box. Do not accept devices that appear tampered with or pre-initialized.

  2. 2

    Go to Ledger.com/Start

    Open a browser on a trusted computer and visit Ledger.com/Start to download Ledger Live and follow official instructions. Avoid downloading software from unverified sources.

  3. 3

    Install Ledger Live

    Install the Ledger Live app (desktop or mobile). Ledger Live is the official companion app that lets you manage apps on the device, add accounts, and send/receive crypto.

    Tip: Keep Ledger Live updated — updates include important security and compatibility fixes.

  4. 4

    Initialize the device (PIN)

    Power on the device and create a PIN directly on the device screen — not on your computer. Choose a PIN you can remember but that is not obvious. Never type your PIN into a website or share it.

  5. 5

    Write down your recovery phrase

    The device will display a 24-word recovery phrase. Write the words in order on the recovery sheet provided. This phrase is the only backup of your funds.

    Security: Never store the recovery phrase digitally (photos, cloud, notes). Never share it with anyone. Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase.

  6. 6

    Verify the recovery phrase on the device

    Follow the on-device verification to confirm the words you wrote are correct. This prevents transcription mistakes and ensures your backup will work if needed.

  7. 7

    Install apps & add accounts via Ledger Live

    Open Ledger Live, go to the Manager, and install apps for the blockchains you use (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Then add accounts and synchronize balances — all actions are confirmed on the device.

  8. 8

    Receive a small test transaction

    Before receiving large amounts, send a small test transaction to an address generated by your Ledger to confirm everything is working correctly. Verify the receiving address on the device screen.

  9. 9

    Keep firmware and apps updated

    Periodically check Ledger Live for firmware and app updates. Updating improves security. Follow on-screen prompts and verify updates through the device when required.

  10. 10

    Practice safe long-term storage

    Store your recovery sheet in a secure, fireproof place. For extra resilience, consider split backups (e.g., two geographically separated safes) — but ensure each part alone is insufficient to recover funds.

Quick security checklist

  • Never share your 24-word recovery phrase.
  • Always verify addresses on your device screen before sending.
  • Download Ledger Live only from Ledger.com/Start.
  • Use a unique PIN and store backups offline.
  • Be cautious of phishing emails, fake websites, and unsolicited help.