Ledger.com/Start® | Getting started

Your new journey into secure self-custody begins here. Welcome.

Welcome to True Ownership

You have just taken the most important step in your crypto journey: securing your assets. By choosing a Ledger hardware wallet, you are moving your digital assets offline, away from the reach of hackers and into your full control. This is the power of "self-custody."

This guide is your official starting point. We will walk you through every step, from unboxing your device to making your first secure transaction. Please follow these instructions carefully and in order. Do not skip any steps. Your security depends on it. Let's begin.

Step 1: Install the Ledger Live Application

Ledger Live is your secure gateway to the crypto world. It's the all-in-one desktop and mobile application that works with your hardware wallet. You will use it to set up your device, install apps, create accounts, and manage all your transactions.

Security Warning: Phishing Alert

Only download Ledger Live from our official website: Ledger.com. Malicious actors create fake "Ledger Live" apps and websites to steal your funds. Never download it from an app store search, a link in an email, or a social media post.

Download Official Ledger Live

Step 2: Initialize Your Ledger Device

Now it's time to power on your device. Connect your Ledger to your computer using the provided USB cable. The device will light up and greet you.

  1. Follow the on-screen instructions. Use the two buttons to navigate left and right, and press both buttons simultaneously to select or confirm.
  2. The device will ask if you want to "Set up as new device". Select this option.
  3. You will now create your PIN code. This code (4 to 8 digits) is your first layer of security. It locks your physical device.
  4. Choose a PIN you will remember, but one that is not obvious (like 1234 or your birthday).
  5. Enter it, and then confirm it a second time. This PIN is required every time you power on or unlock your device.

Step 3: Secure Your 24-Word Recovery Phrase

This is the single most important step of your entire setup. Please stop all distractions and focus.

Your device will now generate a secret 24-word Recovery Phrase. This phrase is the master key to all your crypto. It is the *only* backup of your funds. If you lose your device, this phrase is the only way to restore access to your assets.

YOUR FUNDS. YOUR RESPONSIBILITY.

  • NEVER share this phrase with anyone. Not your family, not a friend, and NEVER from "Ledger Support." We will NEVER ask for it.
  • NEVER type it into a computer, phone, or website. It must *only* be written down on paper.
  • NEVER take a photo of it or store it in a password manager.
  • Anyone who gets your 24 words can steal ALL of your crypto, forever.
  1. Take the "Recovery Sheets" from your Ledger box.
  2. Your device will display 24 words, one at a time. Write each word down clearly, in the correct order (word #1, word #2, etc.).
  3. Press the right button to move to the next word. Double-check your spelling.
  4. Once you have all 24 words, your device will ask you to confirm them. This verifies you have written them down correctly.
  5. Store your physical Recovery Sheets in a secure, private, and ideally fireproof/waterproof location. Think of them as more valuable than cash.

Step 4: Complete Genuine Check & Install Apps

With your device set up, it's time to connect it to the Ledger Live application. Your device and PIN are ready, and your 24-word phrase is safely stored.

  1. In Ledger Live, follow the on-screen prompts. It will ask to connect to your device.
  2. Unlock your device using your PIN.
  3. Ledger Live will now perform a Genuine Check. This is a cryptographic verification that proves your device is an authentic Ledger product and has not been tampered with.
  4. Once passed, navigate to the "Manager" tab in Ledger Live.
  5. Here, you will install "apps" on your device. To manage Bitcoin, you install the Bitcoin app. To manage Ethereum, you install the Ethereum app. This is how you customize your wallet.
  6. Find the apps for the crypto you own and click "Install." You may need to "Allow Ledger Manager" on your device.

Step 5: Add Your Accounts

You're in the home stretch! Installing an app on your device is like installing software; now you need to create the account to see your balance.

  1. Go to the "Accounts" tab in Ledger Live.
  2. Click the "Add account" button.
  3. Select the crypto asset you want to add (e.g., Bitcoin), which must match an app you just installed.
  4. Follow the prompts. Ledger Live will sync with your device to generate your new, secure account address.
  5. Once added, you will see your account on the main "Portfolio" page. You are now ready to receive funds.

You're All Set! What's Next?

Congratulations! Your Ledger is set up, and your crypto is secure. Here's what to do next:

  • Receive Funds: To send crypto to your new secure wallet, click "Receive" in Ledger Live. Select your account and follow the steps. It will show you an address. Crucially, you must verify this address on your Ledger device's screen. This confirms the address is yours and not a fake one from malware.
  • Explore Ledger Live: Check out the "Buy/Sell," "Swap," and "Discover" sections. You can securely manage your crypto life right from the app, all confirmed on your physical device.
  • Learn More: Visit the Ledger Academy on our website for in-depth guides on security, DeFi, NFTs, and more.