Starting at the official onboarding portal ensures you download Ledger Live™ from a trusted source, follow verified device setup steps, and learn essential practices such as verifying addresses on‑device and protecting your recovery phrase. This page acts as a compact, presentation‑style companion for new and returning users seeking a clear path to installing software, initializing a device, and managing assets responsibly.
What you’ll complete
Install Ledger Live™ from the official site and verify the download.
Initialize a new device or restore from a recovery phrase—fully offline and on‑device.
Enable security features (PIN, optional passphrase) and learn anti‑phishing checks.
Add accounts, receive and send test transactions safely, and understand fees.
Trust but verify
Bookmark the official link and type it directly: Ledger.com/Start® — Official Link. Avoid search‑ad links that could lead to impostor sites.
Step 1
Prepare your environment
Requirements
Computer or smartphone with an up‑to‑date OS.
Stable internet for Ledger Live™ installation.
Quiet space to record your 24‑word recovery phrase privately.
Anti‑tamper check
Open the box yourself, inspect the device, and only use cables you trust. If anything looks off, contact the official support via Ledger.com/Start® for guidance.
Verify the installer’s publisher and, when available, the checksum or signature.
First launch
On first open, allow only necessary permissions. Decline any unexpected pop‑ups or extensions claiming to “speed up” setup.
Step 3
Initialize your Ledger® device
Create a new wallet
Power on the device and follow on‑screen prompts.
Create a strong PIN. Do not share it. Avoid writing it near your recovery phrase.
Back up the 24‑word recovery phrase on paper or a durable medium. Never photograph or store it in the cloud.
Restoring an existing wallet
Choose “Restore from recovery phrase” on the device and enter words on‑device only. If unsure, re‑read the official guidance at Ledger.com/Start®.
Accounts
Add, receive, and send
Adding accounts
In Ledger Live™, select Add account, choose a crypto network, and confirm any on‑device prompts. This creates a tracked account without moving funds.
Receiving funds safely
Click Receive, choose the account, and display the address on the device.
Verify the entire address on‑device. If every character matches, share it with the sender.
For first use, do a small test transaction and wait for confirmations.
Sending with confidence
When sending, confirm the amount and address on the device screen before approving. If anything differs, reject and re‑check.
Users
Users & access hygiene
Personal vs. shared devices
Hardware wallets are best kept personal. If multiple people must access funds, consider multisig setups or separate devices/accounts to limit risk.
Passphrase (advanced)
Some users enable an optional passphrase to derive distinct accounts. Use cautiously; losing it means losing access to those specific accounts.
Management
Ongoing management & updates
Firmware & app updates
Apply firmware updates only via Ledger Live™ when prompted.
Update coin apps through the Manager tab; remove unused apps to free space.
Backups & redundancy
Store your recovery phrase in at least two secure, geographically separated locations. Consider a metal backup for durability.
Security
Essential safeguards
Golden rules
Never share your 24 words with anyone—not support, not friends, not “apps”.
Verify every address and amount on the hardware screen before approving.
Type seed words only on the device, never on a computer or phone.
Phishing awareness
Scammers imitate brand visuals. Ignore unsolicited DMs, emails, or “airdrop” sites. If in doubt, return to Ledger.com/Start® — Official Link and navigate from there.
Recovery
Disaster readiness
Device lost or damaged
Acquire a new Ledger® device from an authorized source.
Restore using your 24 words on‑device only.
Set a new PIN and confirm accounts appear as expected in Ledger Live™.
Estate planning
Document clear instructions for trusted heirs without exposing the seed. Consider professional guidance for inheritance and legal compliance.
Privacy
Protecting your metadata
Operational habits
Avoid naming accounts with personal info.
Be mindful of public addresses shared on social media.
Use separate accounts for different activities (e.g., long‑term holdings vs. experiments).
Network considerations
Keep your OS and browser updated, and consider using trusted networks during sensitive actions.
✅ My device is initialized with a unique PIN and secure 24‑word backup.
✅ I verified my receive address on the device screen before sharing.
✅ I tested with a small transaction first and waited for confirmations.
✅ I understand never to enter seed words on a keyboard or website.
Where to get help
Always reach support via the official path—avoid search results that may be sponsored by impostors. Start from Ledger.com/Start®.
FAQ
Is Ledger Live™ required?
Short answer
It’s the recommended companion to manage apps, accounts, and updates. Alternatives exist for advanced users, but official guidance begins at Ledger.com/Start®.
Why it matters
Using the official flow reduces the risk of spoofed downloads or misconfigured wallets.
FAQ
Do I ever share my 24 words?
Never
Not even with “support” or apps. Anyone who asks is attempting theft. If pressured, disengage and revisit Ledger.com/Start® — Official Link.
PIN vs. passphrase
Your PIN unlocks the device; a passphrase (optional) derives a separate set of accounts. Losing a passphrase means losing access to those derived accounts.
FAQ
Can I manage multiple networks?
Yes
Install the relevant coin apps via the Manager tab and add accounts for each supported network. Confirm addresses on‑device every time.
Fees & confirmations
Network fees vary by congestion and chain rules. Learn the basics for each network you use before sending large amounts.