Get started with Ledger* | Ledger.com/start

Multiple presentation formats — slide deck, longform guide, brochure, hero, and print-ready — with clear headings, full content, and accessible layouts for onboarding new Ledger users.

Get started with Ledger

A practical, step-by-step presentation to help new users set up their Ledger hardware wallet, install Ledger Live, secure recovery phrases, and adopt best practices for safe crypto custody.

Agenda

  1. What is Ledger & Ledger Live?
  2. Unboxing & first steps
  3. Initializing your device and firmware
  4. Creating and securing your recovery phrase
  5. Installing apps and managing accounts
  6. Best practices and troubleshooting
  7. Advanced workflows and integrations

What is Ledger?

Ledger provides hardware wallets that securely store your cryptographic private keys offline. The Ledger device isolates signing operations so private keys never leave the device. Ledger Live is the companion app (desktop and mobile) for managing accounts, installing apps, and performing transactions.

Unboxing & Safety

Always inspect packaging for tamper evidence. Only use the official USB cable and connectors provided. Ledger's official packaging and tamper-evident seals help ensure authenticity; if you suspect tampering, contact Ledger Support before proceeding.

Initialize Your Device

  • Power on the device.
  • Select "Set up as new device" (or "Restore from recovery phrase" if you already have one).
  • Choose a PIN — never share it and never store it with your recovery phrase.

Recovery Phrase

The recovery phrase (24 words) is the single most important backup. Write it down on the provided recovery sheet and store it securely offline. Do not store it digitally or in cloud backups. Treat it like the keys to a safe deposit box.

Install Ledger Live

Download Ledger Live from ledger.com/start. Install on your desktop or mobile device, follow the onboarding, and add accounts for the coins you want to manage. Ledger Live connects to your device for signing operations but never receives your private keys.

Install Crypto Apps

Ledger devices use a modular app model. Install the specific coin apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) via Ledger Live. Each app allows the device to handle coin-specific addresses and transactions.

Sending & Receiving

  • Always verify the receiving address on-device before sending funds.
  • Use small test transactions when sending to new addresses or using new services.
  • Confirm the transaction details and fees on-device before approving.

Firmware & Updates

Keep your device firmware and Ledger Live up to date. Firmware updates are signed; install updates only from Ledger Live or official Ledger channels. Updates can include security patches and new features.

Recovering a Lost Device

If your device is lost or damaged, you can recover funds using your recovery phrase on a new Ledger device or a compatible recovery tool. Never enter your recovery phrase into a website or untrusted application.

Best Practices

  • Never share your recovery phrase or PIN.
  • Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated from official sources.
  • Use passphrases only if you understand their trade-offs.
  • Consider multi-sig for larger amounts.

Troubleshooting

  • Device not detected: try different USB ports/cables and restart Ledger Live.
  • Restore failed: double-check recovery phrase order and spelling.
  • Contact Ledger Support if you suspect tampering or a hardware fault.

Advanced Workflows

Ledger integrates with DeFi apps, staking platforms, and third-party wallets. Use Ledger Live or a supported third-party app with the device to sign transactions securely. Always confirm addresses and amounts on-device.

Q&A & Resources

Visit ledger.com/start, ledger.com/support, and the developer documentation for detailed guides, videos, and community forums.

Executive Summary

This comprehensive guide walks new and intermediate users through getting started with Ledger hardware wallets and Ledger Live. It covers unboxing, device initialization, recovery phrase best practices, installing apps, using Ledger Live for account management, securing your setup, and advanced topics such as integrations, passphrases, and multi-signature. The aim is practical security—helping users protect their crypto while staying usable.

1. Introduction to Ledger

Ledger is a company that builds hardware wallets (Ledger Nano S, Nano X, and others) that provide an air-gapped environment for private keys. These devices are designed so that private keys never leave the device: instead, transactions are signed inside the device and only signed transactions are sent out. Ledger Live is the desktop and mobile companion application that helps manage accounts, install coin-specific apps, and perform transactions through a secure workflow.

2. Unboxing & First Inspection

When your Ledger device arrives, inspect the packaging. Ledger uses tamper-evident seals and distinct packaging; if anything looks tampered with, contact Ledger Support immediately. The package typically includes the device, a USB cable, a recovery sheet, and documentation with an initial quick-start guide.

3. Choosing Where to Set Up

Set up your device in a private, offline-friendly location. Avoid public Wi‑Fi or shared computers if you have a heightened threat model. If possible, use your personal laptop that you keep updated and free of known malware. Remember: the recovery phrase must be written down by hand and kept offline.

4. Device Initialization — Step-by-Step

  1. Power on the device by connecting it to a computer or pairing with Bluetooth (if supported by your device model).
  2. Follow the on-device instructions: select language, set a secure PIN code (6+ digits recommended), and choose whether to create a new wallet or restore an existing one.
  3. Write down the 24-word recovery phrase exactly in the order shown. Ledger devices typically use 24 words, though some configurations may use different lengths — always follow the device prompts.
  4. Confirm the recovery phrase when prompted to ensure accuracy.

5. Recovery Phrase — The Single Most Important Thing

The recovery phrase is the backup of your private keys. Store it offline in at least two geographically separated secure locations if you hold significant funds. Consider using cryptosteel or metal backup solutions to protect against fire and water damage. Never share the recovery phrase with anyone, and never enter it into a website or app that isn't an official device restoration flow.

6. Installing Ledger Live & Adding Accounts

Download Ledger Live from ledger.com/start. Install it on your desktop or mobile device, then follow the setup wizard: choose language, enable optional telemetry if you wish, and connect your Ledger device. Use Ledger Live to install coin apps for the currencies you plan to manage — for example, Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana. Each app enables the device to recognize and interact with the blockchain for that coin.

7. Using Ledger Live — Manage, Send, Receive

Ledger Live provides an overview of accounts and portfolio value. To receive funds, open the Receive flow in Ledger Live and verify the address displayed by the application against the address shown on the Ledger device. For sending funds, prepare the transaction in Ledger Live, then review and approve transaction details on your Ledger device. This two-step model ensures that host applications cannot alter transaction details after the user reviews them on-device.

8. Firmware Updates & Security

Ledger periodically releases firmware updates that address security issues and add features. Firmware updates are signed; Ledger Live handles verification and installation. Always install firmware updates from Ledger Live or other official Ledger distribution channels. Do not install firmware from untrusted sources or through third-party tools.

9. Passphrase — Optional but Powerful

Ledger supports an optional passphrase (sometimes called 25th word) that can be used to add an additional layer of protection. Understand that a passphrase effectively creates a hidden wallet: if lost, you will not be able to recover funds. Use passphrases only if you understand their operational risks and have a reliable plan to back them up.

10. Recovery & Restoring

If you need to restore a wallet, use the "Restore from recovery phrase" option on a Ledger device and carefully input the 24 words in order. If your device is lost or damaged, you can restore your accounts on a new Ledger device or compatible recovery software/hardware if you fully trust and verify it. Never type your recovery phrase into random websites or connected applications.

11. Using Third-Party Apps & DeFi

Ledger devices can sign transactions for a broad spectrum of applications — decentralized exchanges, NFT marketplaces, and DeFi protocols. When using third-party apps, always ensure they're legitimate and that you verify transaction details on-device. Prefer connecting through Ledger Live or through well-known, audited integrations that support hardware wallet flows.

12. Multi-signature & Enterprise Use

For higher security or institutional custody, consider multi-signature setups where multiple hardware devices or participants must sign transactions. Ledger devices are compatible with various multi-sig tools and services. These setups reduce single points of failure and are recommended for organizations or individuals holding large balances.

13. Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

  • Storing recovery phrase digitally — avoid at all costs.
  • Sharing recovery phrase or PIN with "support" or strangers — Ledger support will never ask for your recovery phrase.
  • Skipping firmware updates for long periods — delays can leave known vulnerabilities unpatched.
  • Using unofficial cables or chargers that may be data-only or corrupting — use the provided cable where possible.

14. Troubleshooting Checklist

  1. Device not recognized: check USB cable and port; try another computer; ensure Ledger Live is up to date.
  2. Unable to restore: verify the exact word list and ordering; check for common transcription errors (e.g., 'c' vs 'cl').
  3. Firmware update stuck: follow Ledger's recovery procedures; avoid repeated power cycling during critical update steps.
  4. Suspect compromised recovery phrase: move funds to a new wallet with a new recovery phrase using a secure environment and device.

15. Privacy & Data Handling

Ledger Live can optionally collect telemetry. If privacy is a priority, disable telemetry during setup or in settings. Ledger Live stores account public keys and transaction history locally; it does not have access to private keys. Treat all account addresses as public but be mindful that addresses can be linked on-chain to identify activity.

16. Advanced Security Options

Consider the following for higher threat models:

  • Use a dedicated air-gapped machine for high-value operations.
  • Use metal backups for the recovery phrase.
  • Consider using a passphrase in combination with multi-sig for maximum compartmentalization.

17. Integrations & Ecosystem

Ledger integrates with many wallets and services (e.g., MetaMask, Brave, DeFi aggregators). When connecting Ledger to a browser wallet like MetaMask, ensure you're using a hardware-wallet-compatible flow and that transaction prompts open on your Ledger device for final confirmation.

18. Ledger for Developers

Developers can integrate Ledger hardware wallet support into their applications using standard protocols. Use Ledger's documented APIs, ensure transaction payloads are deterministic, and always wait for the device to return a signed transaction before broadcasting. Provide explicit UI guidance to users to verify on-device prompts.

19. Regulatory Considerations

Ledger devices are neutral tools for secure key custody. Businesses incorporating Ledger devices should consult legal counsel for compliance with KYC/AML and other regulations when custody or transmission of value is involved. Ledger device use alone does not satisfy or replace legal obligations for regulated businesses.

20. Appendix — Checklists & Templates

Setup checklist

  • Inspect package for tampering
  • Install Ledger Live from official site
  • Initialize device and write down recovery phrase
  • Set a secure PIN
  • Install apps for coins you use
  • Test with a small transaction

Recovery emergency plan

  1. If you suspect compromise, move funds immediately using a secure environment and a new device.
  2. Notify co-signers in multi-sig setups.
  3. Review backups and store new recovery phrases in hardened containers.

21. Conclusion

Ledger hardware wallets provide a robust and practical way to secure cryptocurrency private keys. With careful setup, secure handling of recovery phrases, and adherence to best practices, users can significantly reduce the risk of loss or theft. Ledger Live provides an accessible on-ramp for managing accounts, while the device ensures cryptographic operations remain under user control.

22. Resources

  • Ledger Start: https://ledger.com/start
  • Ledger Support & Knowledge Base
  • Developer Docs & SDKs
  • Community Forums & Tutorials

Glossary

Private key
A secret number used to sign transactions; never reveal it.
Recovery phrase
A human-readable backup of private keys (typically 24 words).
Ledger Live
The desktop and mobile app for managing Ledger devices and accounts.
Passphrase
An optional extra word that creates hidden wallets; provides extra security but increases recovery complexity.

Quick Start — Left Column

This panel provides a concise onboarding flow for individuals and teams. It's meant for quick distribution at events or as a printable handout for users receiving a Ledger device for the first time.

Key Steps

  1. Download Ledger Live from ledger.com/start
  2. Initialize device & securely store 24-word recovery phrase
  3. Install apps for the cryptocurrencies you use
  4. Verify addresses on-device before sending

Security reminder

Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase or PIN via email or support chat. If asked, consider it a scam.

Ledger — Secure your crypto with hardware

Start at ledger.com/start to download Ledger Live and follow the step-by-step onboarding. Protect your keys by keeping them offline and always verify actions on your device.

Get started with Ledger — Quick Reference

This single-page cheat sheet is ideal for printing and distributing at meetups or handing to new users as a quick reference for secure setup.

Essential Checklist

  • Inspect packaging
  • Install Ledger Live from official site
  • Initialize device and write down recovery phrase
  • Set up PIN and optional passphrase
  • Install coin apps and test with a small transaction

Prepared: October 2025