Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® | Getting started*

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to begin with Ledger.com/Start. Follow the steps below to unbox your Ledger hardware wallet, install Ledger Live, set up a secure PIN and recovery phrase, and start managing your cryptocurrencies safely.

Why start at Ledger.com/Start?

Ledger.com/Start is the official starting point for owners of Ledger hardware wallets. It centralizes up-to-date instructions, official downloads, and safety tips so you don't rely on third-party or outdated resources. Using Ledger.com/Start helps ensure you're following the manufacturer's recommended best practices to protect your crypto assets.

Official download links for Ledger Live and firmware.
Step-by-step setup and verification guidance.
Security reminders to protect your recovery phrase.

Quick start: the essential steps

1. Unbox and inspect

Open the package and verify the device packaging is intact. Ledger devices ship in tamper-evident packaging — if anything looks altered, contact Ledger support before proceeding.

2. Visit Ledger.com/Start

Go to Ledger.com/Start to download the official Ledger Live app and follow manufacturer setup instructions. Always ensure the URL matches exactly to avoid phishing sites.

3. Install Ledger Live

Download Ledger Live for your operating system from Ledger.com/Start and install it. Ledger Live connects to your Ledger device and is the recommended interface for managing accounts and firmware updates.

4. Initialize your device

Follow on-device prompts to set a secure PIN and generate your recovery phrase (also known as the seed phrase). Write your recovery phrase down on the provided card — never store it digitally.

5. Add accounts and begin using Ledger Live

Open Ledger Live, choose the crypto accounts you want to add, and follow the app's instructions to add them. You can now send and receive crypto while the private keys remain securely on your Ledger device.

Detailed setup (step-by-step)

Download safely: From Ledger.com/Start, select your device model and OS. Verify the checksum if provided by Ledger to ensure the file is authentic.
Connect and power: Connect the Ledger device to your computer or mobile device using the supplied cable. Follow the on-device prompts.
Create a PIN: Choose a memorable but strong PIN. Do not write the PIN down together with your recovery phrase.
Write down your recovery phrase: Ledger devices generate a 24-word recovery phrase by default. Use the recovery card and keep it offline in a safe place. This is the only backup to restore your assets if the device is lost or damaged.
Confirm the phrase: The device will ask you to confirm random words to ensure you recorded them correctly.
Install apps in Ledger Live: Ledger Live uses application packages for each coin (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Install the needed apps and then add accounts.

Important: Ledger will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase. If anyone asks you for it — even claiming to be support — it is a scam.

Security best practices

Only download Ledger Live from Ledger.com/Start.
Never type or store your recovery phrase on a computer, phone, cloud drive, or online form.
Use a hardware wallet in combination with Ledger Live — keep the device physically secure.
Enable a passphrase (optional) only if you understand how it works; a lost passphrase cannot be recovered by Ledger support.
Regularly update firmware through Ledger Live when updates are released on Ledger.com/Start.

Common issues & troubleshooting

Ledger Live won't detect my device

Ensure the cable is data-capable (some cables only charge), try a different USB port, and confirm your OS has the latest updates. Reboot your computer and the device and try again.

I lost my recovery phrase — what now?

If you have not written down the recovery phrase, treat the device as un-backed-up and transfer funds to a new wallet (with a newly created recovery phrase) as soon as possible. If neither backup nor passphrase exist, funds cannot be recovered.

Is Ledger.com/Start safe?

Yes — as long as you verify the site URL and avoid third-party mirror downloads. Ledger.com/Start is the canonical resource for official downloads, instructions, and firmware notices.

FAQ

Can I set up Ledger without a computer?

Yes. Many Ledger models support mobile setup using Ledger Live Mobile. Start at Ledger.com/Start to find mobile instructions.

Can Ledger recover my funds if I lose my device?

Yes, funds are recoverable using your recovery phrase on a compatible device or software wallet — which is why securely storing the recovery phrase is critical.

Should I buy Ledger from other marketplaces?

Purchase only from authorized resellers or the official Ledger store to reduce the risk of tampered or counterfeit devices. Links and authorized seller information are available via Ledger.com/Start.