Ledger.com/Start® | Starting Up Your Device

Quick Start — Unbox, Connect, and Initialize

Starting a Ledger device is intentionally simple but security-focused. Follow these steps exactly when you first power on your device. If you received the device from anyone other than an official Ledger channel, do not use it — contact Ledger support immediately.

Official Start Page Download Ledger Live

Unbox & Inspect: Remove the Ledger device from the sealed box. Confirm the tamper-evident packaging was intact and that accessories (USB cable, recovery sheet) are present.

Power on & choose to set up as new device: When prompted choose Set up as new device (unless you are restoring an existing wallet from a recovery phrase).

Create PIN: Choose a 4–8 digit PIN (longer is better). Never disclose it. The PIN protects the device if it is physically lost or stolen.

Write down your Recovery Phrase: The device will display a 24-word recovery phrase. Write the words in order on the provided recovery sheet. This phrase is the only backup of your private keys—store it offline and secure it in a safe place.

Install Ledger Live: On your computer or mobile, download Ledger Live from Ledger’s official site and follow the device pairing instructions to install apps for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other assets.

Why the Recovery Phrase matters

Your recovery phrase (seed) fully controls your funds. Anyone with access to it can restore your wallet on another device and steal your assets. Ledger staff will never ask for your recovery phrase. Never store it digitally (photos, cloud, email) and never share it with anyone.

Ledger Live — Manage Apps & Accounts

Ledger Live is the companion app. Use it to install/update apps, create accounts per blockchain, check balances, and sign transactions. Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger site and keep it up to date.

Install Apps

Use Ledger Live’s Manager to install blockchain apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) on your device.

Create Accounts

Create a separate account per asset and label them to keep your portfolio organized.

Firmware updates

Keep your device firmware current. Ledger issues firmware updates to patch vulnerabilities and improve features. Update firmware only via Ledger Live and after confirming the update originates from Ledger’s official servers.

Security Best Practices

Buy from official channels: Purchase Ledger devices only from Ledger.com or authorized resellers.
Never share recovery phrase: Ledger support will never ask for it. Treat it like the keys to a safe deposit box.
Enable passphrase (optional): Advanced users can add an optional passphrase (25th word) for additional account separation—understand the implications before using it.
Use hardware wallets for large holdings: Keep the majority of your funds in cold storage and move only small amounts to hot wallets for spending.
Register device serials & receipts: Keep proof of purchase and device serial numbers for support and warranty claims.

Quick Tip: Test small transfers first. When receiving or withdrawing crypto for the first time to a new account, send a small test amount to confirm the address and network.

Restoring a Device from Recovery Phrase

If you have an existing recovery phrase, you can restore your wallet on a new Ledger device. During setup choose Restore device and carefully enter the 24 words in the exact order. After restoration, pair with Ledger Live to access accounts.

Troubleshooting & Common Questions

If a device doesn’t respond, try these steps: use a different USB cable/port, ensure Ledger Live is up to date, reboot the device, and consult the support pages if problems persist. Do not input your recovery phrase into any website or third-party software.

Contact & Support Resources

Ledger provides detailed guides, FAQs, and direct support. Use the official resources below for downloads, guides, and customer service. Be cautious of scams posing as Ledger support—always verify the domain and official channels.

Ledger.com/Start® | Starting Up Your Device - Ledger®