Ledger — Start

Secure your crypto with a hardware wallet — setup guide & resources

Quick start

Set up your Ledger device — simple, secure, guided

This page walks you through powering on your Ledger device, creating or restoring an account, and learning the safety habits that keep your crypto secure. Whether this is your first hardware wallet or you're switching from another solution, these steps are intentionally clear and designed to minimize mistakes.

Unbox & verify

Confirm packaging integrity and package seals. Only use the official Ledger website and apps to download software — never follow links from messages or social media.

Power & initialize

Power the device and follow on-screen prompts. Create a new wallet or restore using your recovery phrase. Never share the recovery phrase with anyone — Ledger will never ask for it.

Install apps

Use the Ledger Live desktop or mobile app to install the coin apps you need. Each coin app isolates keys for that blockchain to reduce risk.

Send & receive safely

Verify addresses on the device screen, not just on your computer. Small test transactions are recommended for new addresses and unfamiliar services.

Security essentials

Hardware wallets protect private keys by keeping them offline. To maximize security, write your recovery phrase on the provided card or on a fire- and water-resistant backup solution. Avoid digital copies or photos. Use a strong PIN and keep your firmware updated. If you ever lose your device, your assets remain recoverable with the secret recovery phrase — so protect it.

Tip

Test recovery by performing a restore into a second device only when confident — never share seeds to "verify."

Best practice

Keep firmware & Ledger Live up to date. Use official stores and direct downloads. Report suspicious pages or offers immediately.

Frequently asked

What if I lose my device?

As long as you kept your recovery phrase safe, you can restore your accounts on another compatible Ledger device or a supported recovery tool.

Can Ledger access my funds?

No. Ledger devices never share your private keys. Transactions must be confirmed on the device itself, which acts as a secure vault for keys.