Welcome — start using your Ledger device safely
This official-style guide helps you through the critical first steps after receiving a Ledger hardware wallet. Follow the interactive flow at ledger.com/start for live setup. Below you'll find clear, practical instructions: how to install Ledger Live, initialize or recover a wallet, secure your recovery phrase, update firmware, connect to third-party apps, and follow privacy and safety best practices. Ten official Ledger links are included so you can jump to the exact resource you need.
Why a hardware wallet matters
A Ledger device keeps your private keys offline inside a secure element — the highest practical protection for controlling cryptocurrency. Even when connected to a computer or phone, the device signs transactions internally and never exposes the private keys. Ledger Live and official integrations facilitate convenient management while preserving hardware-backed security.
What you'll need
- Your Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or other official model) purchased from the official Ledger shop.
- A computer or phone with Ledger Live installed from the official download: Ledger Live.
- A quiet, private place to write and store your recovery phrase — never store it digitally.
Install Ledger Live
Download Ledger Live from the official page ledger.com/ledger-live. Ledger Live is available for desktop and mobile and will guide you through firmware updates, app installations on the device, and account creation. Always verify you are on the official domain before downloading the installer.
Initialize vs Recover
When you open Ledger Live and connect the device, you'll be prompted to either set up as new (initialize) or recover from an existing recovery phrase. If initializing, the device will generate a recovery phrase (24 words by default) and display it on the device screen — write it down exactly, in order. If recovering, follow the secure device prompts to enter your words using the device inputs. Never type your recovery phrase into a computer or phone; only input it via the device when recovering.
Firmware updates and app installs
Ledger devices require signed firmware. Ledger Live will notify you if a firmware update is needed — perform updates only through Ledger Live or official instructions: firmware guide. Similarly, install cryptocurrency apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) on the device using Ledger Live to manage specific coins.
Ten official links
- Start — ledger.com/start
- Ledger Live — ledger.com/ledger-live
- Shop — ledger.com/shop
- Support — ledger.com/support
- Security — ledger.com/security
- Learn — ledger.com/learn
- Compatibility — ledger.com/compatibility
- Blog — ledger.com/blog
- GitHub — github.com/LedgerHQ
- Legal & policies — ledger.com/legal
Protecting your recovery phrase
Your recovery phrase is the single most important secret. Store it offline, in a safe location. Do not photograph it, screenshot it, or type it into any website or app. Consider metal backups for fire and water resistance. Ledger never asks for your recovery phrase — any request for it is a scam. See the security and support pages for recommended backup options: security · support.
Using Ledger with third-party wallets
Ledger devices are compatible with many third-party wallets (e.g., MetaMask, Electrum) that support Ledger integration. Always follow official compatibility guidance and install the necessary app on your device via Ledger Live before connecting. Check supported integrations: compatibility.
Privacy & network considerations
Ledger Live and third-party apps may query public nodes to display balances and history. If you are privacy-conscious, consider connecting to your own node or using privacy-preserving backends where available. Review Ledger's privacy policies and docs: legal & policies · learning.
Troubleshooting common issues
If Ledger Live doesn't detect your device: ensure the device is unlocked and the correct cable is used; try a different USB port; confirm you installed Ledger Live from the official page; update your OS and drivers if required. For mobile connections, ensure Bluetooth (for Nano X) or OTG functionality is properly configured. Detailed troubleshooting steps are on the Support page: support.
Security checklist
Advanced usage & developer resources
Developers can integrate Ledger support using the Ledger SDKs and open-source repos on GitHub. For code, SDKs, and contributions, visit the official Ledger GitHub: github.com/LedgerHQ. For deeper learning, explore the Learning Center and Blog: learn · blog.
This guide condenses the key steps and safety advice from the official Start flow. For interactive setup, tools, and the latest downloads, use the official Start page at ledger.com/start and consult the Support and Security pages linked above.