Ledger.com/start Setup — Secure Your Crypto in Minutes

A practical, step-by-step guide to purchasing, verifying, initializing, backing up, and using your Ledger hardware wallet safely. Designed to get you up and protecting assets fast, without skipping security essentials.

Why set up a hardware wallet now?

Owning crypto means also owning responsibility for its security. Custodying assets on exchanges or hot wallets exposes you to online risks: hacks, theft, or platform insolvency. A hardware wallet like Ledger puts your private keys in a tamper-resistant device, offline and out of reach of remote attackers. The tradeoff is a small setup process and careful custody of a recovery phrase — but once you follow a few straightforward steps, you have a resilient, long-term defense for your digital assets.

Before you start — quick checklist

  • Buy from official sources: Ledger.com or authorized resellers to avoid tampering risks.
  • Have a pen and the included recovery sheet ready, or consider a metal backup solution for durability.
  • Use a private, camera-free space to write down your recovery phrase — no photos, no cloud notes.
  • Have a computer or phone ready to download Ledger Live from Ledger.com/start.

This guide assumes you choose the official route and avoids dangerous shortcuts. If you are ever unsure, always return to the official domain and support channels.

Purchase and verify

When your device arrives, inspect the package for tamper-evident seals and correct branding. A genuine Ledger device ships with seals and documentation. If anything appears altered, do not use the device and contact the seller. Purchasing from a verified channel minimizes the effort you need to perform later and keeps your setup simple and secure.

Download Ledger Live (official)

Ledger Live is the official companion application for initializing the device, installing blockchain apps, and managing accounts. To download Ledger Live:

  1. Open a browser and type ledger.com/start manually — avoid clicking links from unknown emails or chats.
  2. Choose the right platform (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android) and download the official installer or app store entry.
  3. Install and open Ledger Live. When it prompts, choose the correct flow: set up a new device or restore an existing one.

Do not install Ledger Live from third-party sources. Always verify TLS (the padlock icon) in your browser's address bar when downloading software.

Quick setup — step-by-step (do this in order)

1. Connect and choose setup

Connect the Ledger device using the supplied cable. In Ledger Live choose “Set up as new device” if you bought new hardware. If you are restoring an existing wallet, choose “Restore device” and follow the restore flow on-device (never type your recovery phrase into your computer).

2. Create a PIN

On-device, choose a PIN (6–8 digits is common). The PIN protects the device from local misuse. Memorize it and avoid writing it on the recovery sheet. Repeated incorrect PIN attempts will wipe the device to protect your seed.

3. Write the recovery phrase

The device will display a recovery phrase (commonly 24 words). Write each word in order on the supplied recovery sheet or a trusted backup medium. Double-check the spelling and word order. This phrase alone restores access to your funds — treat it like the master key.

4. Confirm the phrase

The Ledger device will ask you to confirm a subset of the words to ensure you recorded them correctly. Only proceed once confirmed. Never store the phrase digitally (no photos, screenshots, or cloud notes).

5. Install apps and add accounts

Open Ledger Live, go to the Manager, and install the blockchain apps you need (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Then add accounts in Ledger Live — this lets you view balances, receive funds, and prepare transactions that are signed on-device.

6. Verify and receive

When receiving funds, generate an address in Ledger Live and always verify the same address is shown on your Ledger device screen before sharing it. This prevents address-substitution attacks from malware on your host.

Security practices you should never skip

  • Recovery phrase is sacred: Anyone with this phrase can drain funds. Store it offline and in a secure physical location.
  • Never share it: Ledger support will never request your recovery phrase or PIN. Any such request is malicious.
  • Use metal backups for longevity: Paper degrades and can be destroyed by fire or water — metal plates are a durable option for long-term storage.
  • Keep firmware updated: Install firmware updates via Ledger Live and confirm update prompts on the device itself.
  • Verify addresses on-device: Always check the exact destination address and amount on your Ledger device screen before approving any transaction.

Good security is a habit: make verification and careful backups part of your routine.

Advanced: passphrases, multi-sig, and professional custody

After you are comfortable with the basics, you may consider advanced protections:

  • Passphrase (25th word): An optional secret that extends your seed to create hidden wallets. It increases security but also operational risk — losing the passphrase means losing access to that hidden wallet.
  • Multi-signature: For larger portfolios, multi-sig splits control across multiple devices or parties so no single compromise can move funds.
  • Professional custody: Institutions or very large holders sometimes combine hardware wallets with legal and operational safeguards (audits, split-location storage, and emergency procedures).

Troubleshooting & support

Common issues are usually simple to fix. If your device isn't detected try a different USB cable/port, restart Ledger Live, and ensure the device is unlocked. If an update fails, follow Ledger Live's directions and consult official support. If you suspect your recovery phrase or device is compromised, act immediately: create new keys on a clean device and transfer funds to new addresses. Use only official support channels found on Ledger.com to avoid phishing attempts.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Can I restore my Ledger on another device?
A: Yes. The recovery phrase is portable across compatible devices implementing the same seed standard. Restore only on trusted hardware.
Q: What happens if I lose my Ledger device?
A: If you have your recovery phrase you can restore your accounts on a new Ledger or compatible wallet. If both device and phrase are lost, funds cannot be recovered.
Q: Will Ledger Live ever ask for my recovery phrase?
A: No. Ledger Live does not require you to type the recovery phrase during regular use. Any request for it is a scam.
Q: How long does setup take?
A: The technical steps take roughly 10–20 minutes for a careful setup and backup, depending on how you choose to secure the recovery phrase and install apps.

Final notes — secure in minutes, safe for years

Following these steps gives you a strong, practical foundation for self-custody. The core advantages of a Ledger setup are simple: keys are offline, signatures require physical confirmation, and you control backup and recovery. The important ongoing tasks are to keep firmware and Ledger Live updated, verify everything on-device, and keep your recovery backups physically secure. With a careful initial setup and disciplined habits, you can secure your crypto holdings effectively in minutes and maintain that security for years.

Open Ledger.com/start (official)