Your Ledger device is designed to keep your private keys offline while giving you a secure way to approve transactions. Getting started is straightforward: prepare your device, install the official companion app, and take time to understand the recovery information that safeguards access to your assets.
Self-custody also means responsibility. Your Secret Recovery Phrase is the master backup to your accounts. Keep it private, keep it offline, and never enter it into a computer or share it with anyone claiming to provide support. Follow the instructions shown on your device and verify important actions on its screen.
This guide covers the essential first steps. Device screens and supported features can vary by model, region, and software version, so use the official Ledger Help Center whenever you need model-specific guidance.
Move through setup at your own pace. Download software from official Ledger channels, create a new wallet directly on your device, and pause whenever something does not look right. There is no need to rush a security decision.
Unbox your Ledger device and inspect the contents. Buy from Ledger or an authorized reseller, and do not use a device that arrives with a pre-filled recovery phrase or asks you to use one supplied by someone else. Your phrase must be generated privately on the device during your own setup.
Visit Ledger.com and follow its links to download Ledger Live for your compatible computer or phone. Avoid search ads, unexpected messages, and unofficial download pages. Open the app and follow its setup guidance to connect your device and install any available firmware updates through the verified process.
Choose a PIN on the Ledger device itself. During wallet setup, carefully write each word of your Secret Recovery Phrase in the correct order on the recovery sheet. Verify it as prompted, store it offline where only you can access it, and never share it—even with Ledger support.
Use Ledger Live to add accounts for assets supported by your device and software. To receive funds, generate an address and compare it character by character with the address displayed on your Ledger device. For outgoing transactions, check the recipient and amount on-device before approving.
Keep your PIN private, lock the device when not in use, and install updates only through official software. No legitimate support agent needs your recovery phrase. Be cautious of giveaways, urgent requests, unknown links, and transactions you did not initiate. If unsure, stop and check official documentation.
Good security starts with clear information.
Ledger Live is Ledger’s companion app for managing supported crypto assets with your Ledger signer. It lets you check balances, receive assets, send transactions, and explore supported services while your private keys remain protected by your device.
Yes. During setup, your device displays a Secret Recovery Phrase. Write it down in the supplied recovery sheet and keep it offline in a private, secure place. Never photograph it, type it into a website, or share it with anyone.
No. Ledger cannot access or restore your Secret Recovery Phrase. Anyone who has the phrase can control the associated assets, so protect it carefully. If the phrase is lost and the device is also inaccessible, the assets may be unrecoverable.
Ledger Live is available for supported desktop and mobile platforms. Download it only through Ledger’s official website or the verified app store listing linked from Ledger.com, and check device compatibility before installing.
Stop and verify the instructions through Ledger’s official Help Center. Ledger will never ask you to reveal your Secret Recovery Phrase by message, phone, or website. Do not approve a transaction you do not understand.
Some supported assets and services may require compatible third-party wallet software. Confirm compatibility through official Ledger documentation, install software from its verified source, and review transaction details on your Ledger device before approving.