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Ledger® Start — Set up your Ledger hardware wallet

Your Ledger hardware wallet is the foundation for storing and managing your cryptocurrencies securely. This quick-start guide walks you through initial setup, installing Ledger Live, creating and securing your recovery phrase, and best practices for everyday use.

Open the official start page

What you’ll need

Before you begin, make sure you have: your Ledger device (Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, or another Ledger model), a computer or mobile device with a USB or Bluetooth connection, a stable internet connection, and a safe place to store your recovery phrase. Ledger devices are shipped with official packaging and instructions — always verify authenticity at ledger.com.

Step-by-step setup

  1. Unbox and inspect: Confirm the packaging is sealed and the device is genuine. If anything looks tampered with, contact Ledger Support at support.ledger.com.
  2. Power on & choose a PIN: Connect the device to your computer or mobile device and follow on-screen prompts to choose a secure PIN code. Memorize the PIN — never share it.
  3. Write down your recovery phrase: The device will display a 24-word recovery phrase. Write these words in order on the provided recovery sheet and store it securely offline. This phrase is the only backup of your crypto funds.
  4. Install Ledger Live: Download Ledger Live from the official site: ledger.com/ledger-live. Ledger Live lets you manage accounts, send and receive crypto, and install app support for different coins.
  5. Add accounts & apps: Use Ledger Live to install the appropriate apps on your device (for Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.), then add accounts to begin receiving or transferring assets.

Security best practices

Security is the primary reason to use a hardware wallet. Never share your recovery phrase or enter it into any website or app. Ledger will never ask for your full recovery phrase. Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated, verify addresses on your device screen before confirming transactions, and consider a secure backup location such as a safe deposit box.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where can I download Ledger Live?

Download Ledger Live only from the official page: ledger.com/ledger-live. Avoid third-party downloads.

2. What if I lose my Ledger device?

If your device is lost or stolen, your funds remain safe as long as the recovery phrase remains secret. Purchase a new Ledger device and use the recovery phrase to restore your accounts. See recovery instructions at support.ledger.com.

3. Can Ledger recover my recovery phrase for me?

No. Ledger cannot and will not store or recover your recovery phrase. If you lose it, there is no way to recover your funds.

4. Are third-party wallets supported?

Yes — Ledger works with many trusted third-party wallets and dApps. Always verify compatibility in Ledger Live or at the official integrations page on ledger.com.

5. Is Bluetooth safe on Ledger Nano X?

Ledger Nano X uses secure encryption for Bluetooth pairing. If you prefer, you can use a wired connection. Keep firmware up to date for the latest security improvements.

6. How do I check if my device is genuine?

Follow Ledger’s authenticity verification steps on the official site and contact Support if you suspect tampering. Start here: ledger.com/start.