Welcome
Starting with Ledger gives you full ownership and control of your cryptocurrency keys while keeping them offline and safe. A hardware wallet such as a Ledger device stores your private keys in a secure element, which greatly reduces risk from online attacks and malicious software. This guide walks you through the basic steps you need to take from unboxing to sending your first transaction, plus essential tips for staying safe.
Unbox and inspect
When you receive your Ledger device, check the packaging for tamper-evident seals and ensure the box is sealed properly. Only initialize the device directly with the official Ledger Live app — never accept or follow setup steps sent to you by unsolicited messages. Keep the original packaging and documentation until you have completed setup and verified the device works as expected.
Install Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the desktop and mobile application used to manage apps on your device, check balances, and perform transactions. Download Ledger Live from the official site and follow the installation instructions. During installation, you will be guided to create a new device or restore from an existing recovery phrase. Choose "Set up as new device" if this is a new wallet.
Create a PIN and back up your recovery phrase
Choose a PIN code on the device — this protects access to the wallet locally. Next, the device will show you a recovery phrase (also called seed phrase). Write this phrase down on the provided recovery sheet and keep it stored securely offline. Do not save it digitally, take photos, or enter it into a website. Your recovery phrase is the only way to recover funds if the device is lost or damaged.
Install crypto apps and add accounts
Inside Ledger Live you can install blockchain-specific apps (for example Bitcoin, Ethereum) onto your device. Install the apps you need and then add accounts in Ledger Live. Each account will have a public receiving address you can use to receive funds. Always verify receiving addresses on the physical device screen before sending assets.
Send and receive safely
To receive funds, copy the address from Ledger Live and confirm it matches the address shown on your device screen. To send funds, create the transaction in Ledger Live and confirm every detail (amount, address, fee) on the device before approving. The device’s screen is the final authority — malicious software on a computer cannot change what is shown on the hardware wallet screen.
Keep firmware and software updated
Regularly update Ledger Live and your device firmware to receive security enhancements and bug fixes. Ledger Live will notify you when updates are available — apply them only when connected directly to the official app. Never apply updates suggested by third-party tools or unknown websites.
Best practices and common pitfalls
Never share your recovery phrase with anyone. Ignore messages or support requests that ask for your PIN or seed. Use a unique PIN and consider storing your recovery phrase in a secure, fireproof safe or use a metal recovery backup for extra durability. If you must restore on another device, follow official instructions carefully and verify addresses after restore.
Support and further learning
If you need help, consult official Ledger documentation and support channels. Avoid community advice that asks you to reveal your private keys or seed text. Take time to learn about transaction fees, address formats, and common blockchain scams so you can use your Ledger safely and confidently.
This short guide helps you get started but does not replace Ledger’s official documentation. Treat your recovery phrase as the single most valuable thing you own — protect it accordingly.