Ledger Start

A friendly, animated guide to setting up Ledger hardware, installing Ledger Live, and starting securely.

Get started in 5 clear steps — protect your crypto from day one

This page walks you through the essential start-up flow: unbox your Ledger device, initialize it safely, install Ledger Live, create accounts, and send your first small transaction. Everything you read here is written with security-first practices and clear visual cues so you can build confidence.

1
Unbox & Inspect
Confirm the packaging seal and that the device looks undamaged.
2
Power & Set PIN
Turn on the device and set a PIN. Keep it secret — it protects the device locally.
3
Write down recovery phrase
Record the 24-word recovery phrase on paper — never store it digitally.
4
Install Ledger Live
Download the official app and connect the device to add accounts.
5
Send a small test transaction
Always test with a tiny amount before moving larger funds.

Detailed onboarding — what to expect

The first-time setup usually takes under 10–15 minutes: powering the device, choosing a PIN, noting your recovery phrase (24 words), and installing Ledger Live on your computer or mobile device. Ledger devices store private keys in a secure element on the device and never expose them to your computer or phone. Ledger Live is a companion app that displays account balances and creates unsigned transactions which you approve on-device.

Why the recovery phrase matters

Your recovery phrase is the single most important secret — it is the only backup of your private keys. Writing the words on paper and storing them in a safe, fireproof place ensures you can recover funds if the device is lost, stolen, or damaged. Never type your recovery phrase into a website, app, or cloud service.

First transaction checklist

  • Confirm the receiving address on your device screen matches what Ledger Live shows.
  • Send a very small amount first (test transaction).
  • Once received, proceed with the remainder of the funds.

Quick troubleshooting tips

  • If the device isn't detected: try a different USB cable/port and ensure the device is unlocked.
  • If Ledger Live requests a firmware update: follow on-screen instructions and keep your recovery phrase safe — updates may require re-entry.
  • For persistent issues: reboot your computer and the device, then re-open Ledger Live.
Ledger Start — informational onboarding content. For critical recovery and support actions, always consult official Ledger documentation and support channels.