Start with Ledger

This official start guide helps you set up your Ledger hardware wallet, download Ledger Live, and follow best practices to protect your private keys and digital assets.

What you will do on this page

Learn how to unbox and initialize your Ledger device, install and use Ledger Live (the desktop & mobile app for managing crypto), safely store your recovery phrase, and connect to supported apps and networks.

Before you begin

To prepare for setup, confirm you have the official Ledger device you ordered (Ledger Nano X, Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Stax, or Ledger Flex), a stable computer or mobile device, and a private, offline place to write down your recovery phrase. Never reveal your recovery phrase to anyone.

Step-by-step setup

  1. Unbox your Ledger device and confirm the tamper-evident seal is intact. If anything looks tampered with, contact Ledger Support immediately.
  2. Power on the device, choose a PIN, and follow the device prompts to generate your recovery phrase. Write the recovery phrase on the supplied recovery sheet — do not store it digitally.
  3. Download Ledger Live on desktop or mobile from the official source and follow the in-app instructions to add your device. Ledger Live is the official all-in-one app for managing accounts, buying, staking, and swapping assets. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
  4. After setup, add the cryptocurrencies you want to manage and verify addresses on your Ledger device before sending or receiving funds.
  5. Complete app and firmware updates via Ledger Live; only install updates that are prompted directly by Ledger Live while your device is connected.

These steps prioritize security and make sure your private keys remain stored in Ledger’s secure element. Follow every prompt on your device display and confirm addresses on-device before approving transactions.

Security best practices

Your recovery phrase is the single most critical secret. Never share it, never enter it into a website, and never store it in cloud storage or a photo. Use the official Ledger packaging and firmware only; avoid third-party modifications. For enterprise or high-value users, consider additional options like secure backup services and multi-signature architectures.

Visit Support Download Ledger Live

Ledger Live: manage and protect

Ledger Live is Ledger’s official desktop and mobile application for managing your Ledger device, viewing portfolio balances, making transactions, and accessing integrated services such as crypto buying, swapping, and staking. Download links are provided for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android on the official download page. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}