Welcome to Ledger
Congratulations on choosing Ledger as your trusted security solution for your digital assets. Ledger’s hardware wallets provide industry‑leading protection: your private keys never leave the device, and every transaction must be physically confirmed. In this guide, we walk you through how to start using your device, set it up securely, and begin managing your assets.
Whether you are new to crypto or an experienced user, our step‑by‑step instructions make onboarding smooth and clear. Let’s get started.
Step 1: Unbox & Inspect Your Device
Once your Ledger hardware has arrived, unbox it carefully and check that the packaging is intact. Look for:
- The sealed outer box and tamper‑evident seal.
- The inner envelope or sleeve containing the device and accessories.
- A recovery sheet (blank cards for writing your recovery phrase), USB cable, and instructions booklet.
Do not use if the packaging appears altered or suspicious. Contact support if you notice anything abnormal.
Step 2: Connect Your Device & Install Ledger Live
- Go to the official Ledger setup page: ledger.com/start.
- Download and install the Ledger Live software for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux).
- Launch Ledger Live and click on “Get Started.”
- Select your device model (e.g. Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X).
- Connect the device to your computer or smartphone via USB or USB‑C cable.
Ledger Live will guide you through the firmware initialization and setup. You may be prompted to update firmware if a newer version is available.
Step 3: Choose a PIN & Save Your Recovery Phrase
- On the device, choose a 4‑ to 8‑digit PIN. Enter it twice for confirmation.
- The device will generate a 24‑word recovery phrase. Write it down exactly, in order, on the recovery sheet provided.
- Never store your recovery words digitally, take photos, or share them with anyone.
- Confirm a few random words as prompted by the device to ensure you wrote them correctly.
This recovery phrase is your last resort to recover funds in case your device is lost or fails. Ledger will never ask for it.
Step 4: Add Crypto Apps & Create Accounts
- In Ledger Live, navigate to “Manager” and allow Ledger Live to access your device.
- Install the crypto apps you want (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.).
- After installation, go to “Accounts” and choose “Add Account.”
- Select the coin and follow prompts to link with your hardware.
Each account allows you to send, receive, and manage that asset securely using your hardware device.
Step 5: Receive, Send & Manage Assets
- To receive funds: click “Receive” in Ledger Live, select the account, verify the address on your device, then share the address.
- To send funds: click “Send,” enter recipient address and amount, then confirm on your device.
- For staking, swapping, or using DeFi: explore the integrations under the “Earn” or “Swap” tabs.
All critical actions require manual confirmation on your Ledger device, keeping your funds safe from remote attacks.
Tip: Always keep your Ledger Live app and device firmware up to date. Ledger Live displays update notices, and you should allow official updates only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need Internet to use Ledger?
The ledger device itself works offline (Air‑gapped), and your private keys never connect to the internet. You use Ledger Live (which connects to internet) to build transactions, but final approval happens on the device.
What happens if I forget my PIN?
After several incorrect PIN attempts, the device resets itself (wipe). Use your 24‑word recovery phrase to restore your accounts on a new device.
Can Ledger recover my funds for me?
No. Ledger does not have access to your private keys or recovery phrase. Only you can restore assets using your recovery phrase.
Is it safe to use third‑party apps?
It depends. Always verify app authenticity and use widely trusted services. Ledger Live may integrate vetted partners. The safety also depends on the external service’s security—be cautious and do your due diligence.
Where can I find support?
Visit the official Ledger Support Center or review the Knowledge Base. Never trust unsolicited messages claiming to be “Ledger support” requesting your recovery phrase.