Welcome to Your Ledger Setup Journey
When you visit ledger.com/start, you'll find the official Ledger Wallet download page. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of setting up your new Ledger hardware wallet, from unboxing to securing your first crypto assets.
Important Safety Note
Always visit the official ledger.com/start page directly. Never click links from emails or third-party websites to avoid phishing attempts.
What You'll Find on Ledger.com/start
Download Options
- Windows desktop application
- macOS desktop application
- Linux desktop application
- iOS mobile app
- Android mobile app
Key Features
- Trusted by 8+ million users
- Offline private key storage
- All-in-one crypto management
Complete Setup Walkthrough
Unboxing Your Ledger Device
What's in the Box:
- • Ledger hardware wallet device
- • USB cable (USB-C or micro-USB)
- • Recovery phrase cards
- • Quick start guide
- • Keychain and lanyard
- • Stickers
Authenticity Check
- • Verify the box has an official Ledger hologram seal
- • Check that the device is not pre-configured
- • Ensure no recovery phrase is pre-written
- • Look for any signs of tampering
Download Ledger Live
Visit ledger.com/start and download Ledger Live for your operating system.
Desktop
Windows, macOS, Linux
Mobile
iOS, Android
Verify
Check digital signature
Connect Your Device
- 1. Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the provided USB cable
- 2. Press both buttons simultaneously to power on the device
- 3. Open Ledger Live application
- 4. Select "Set up as new device" when prompted
Tip: If your device doesn't turn on, try a different USB port or cable. Some USB hubs may not provide enough power.
Update Firmware
Ledger Live will automatically check for firmware updates and guide you through the process.
During Firmware Update:
- • Keep your device connected throughout the process
- • Don't disconnect or close Ledger Live
- • The update may take several minutes
- • Your device will restart automatically when complete
Create Your PIN Code
Your PIN protects access to your device and should be 4-8 digits long.
PIN Best Practices:
- • Use 6-8 digits for better security
- • Avoid obvious patterns (1234, 0000)
- • Don't use birthdays or addresses
- • Make it memorable but unique
Device Navigation:
- • Left button: decrease number
- • Right button: increase number
- • Both buttons: confirm selection
- • You'll enter the PIN twice to confirm
Generate Recovery Phrase
Your 24-word recovery phrase is the master key to your crypto assets. This is the most critical step.
⚠️ Critical Security Rules:
- • Write down all 24 words in the exact order shown
- • Use only the provided recovery cards
- • Never take photos or screenshots
- • Never store digitally (computer, phone, cloud)
- • Never share with anyone
- • Double-check each word for accuracy
Sample Recovery Phrase Format:
This is just an example - your actual phrase will be completely different and unique.
Storage Recommendations:
- • Store in a fireproof safe
- • Consider making multiple copies
- • Store copies in different secure locations
- • Use metal backup plates for extra durability
- • Tell trusted family members where it's stored
Verify Your Recovery Phrase
Your Ledger device will ask you to confirm several words from your recovery phrase to ensure you wrote them down correctly.
Verification Process:
- 1. The device will display "Word #X"
- 2. Use buttons to scroll through word options
- 3. Select the correct word from your written phrase
- 4. Repeat for 2-3 randomly selected words
- 5. If correct, you'll see "Your device is ready"
Install Cryptocurrency Apps
Install apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage through Ledger Live's Manager section.
Popular Apps:
- • Bitcoin (BTC)
- • Ethereum (ETH)
- • Litecoin (LTC)
- • Bitcoin Cash (BCH)
- • Cardano (ADA)
- • Solana (SOL)
Installation Tips:
- • Limited storage space on device
- • Install only apps you need
- • Can uninstall/reinstall anytime
- • Your coins remain safe when apps are removed
Add Your First Accounts
Create accounts for each cryptocurrency you want to manage.
Account Creation Process:
- 1. Click "Add account" in Ledger Live
- 2. Select the cryptocurrency
- 3. Connect and unlock your Ledger device
- 4. Open the corresponding app on your device
- 5. Ledger Live will generate your account
- 6. Your receiving address will be displayed
Essential Safety Tips
Never Do This:
- • Share your recovery phrase with anyone
- • Store your phrase digitally
- • Enter your phrase on any website
- • Buy pre-configured devices
- • Use unofficial Ledger software
- • Ignore firmware update notifications
Always Do This:
- • Verify receiving addresses on device screen
- • Keep firmware updated
- • Use official Ledger Live software
- • Store recovery phrase securely offline
- • Test with small amounts first
- • Keep your PIN private
Common Questions
What if I lose my Ledger device?
Your crypto is safe! Use your 24-word recovery phrase to restore your accounts on a new Ledger device or compatible wallet.
Can I use my Ledger on multiple computers?
Yes! Install Ledger Live on any computer and connect your device. Your accounts will sync automatically.
How do I know my device is genuine?
Buy only from Ledger.com or authorized resellers. Check for hologram seals and ensure the device isn't pre-configured.
What if I forget my PIN?
After 3 wrong attempts, your device resets. You can restore it using your recovery phrase and set a new PIN.
You're All Set!
Congratulations! You've successfully set up your Ledger hardware wallet. Your crypto assets are now protected by industry-leading security. Remember to keep your recovery phrase safe and never share it with anyone.