Ledger®

Ledger.com/Start® | Getting started with Ledger Wallet

A concise step-by-step presentation to set up, secure, and use your Ledger hardware wallet.

Get started — Ledger Getting started — Support Download Ledger Wallet Ledger Academy Ledger Wallet (shop)Ledger Support Home Set up Nano S Set up Nano X Ledger Products Ledger Wallet (Android)

H1: Overview — Why use a Ledger hardware wallet?

Ledger hardware wallets store your private keys offline in a secure element. That means your sensitive credentials are never exposed to the internet while you confirm transactions on the device screen. For beginners, a Ledger device provides a strong, practical balance of security and usability — whether you want to hold Bitcoin, Ethereum, or thousands of other assets.

Tip: Always start at the official setup page before connecting any device: ledger.com/start.

H2: What you need before setup

Ledger hardware device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, Gen5, etc.).
Computer or smartphone and the official Ledger Wallet™ app (formerly Ledger Live).
A quiet place to write and securely store your recovery phrase (no screenshots, no digital copies).
Access to official Ledger resources for downloads and support.

H3: Authenticity check

Verify the package and the tamper-evident seal on arrival. If packaging or device behavior looks suspicious, do not use it — contact Ledger support directly through the official site above.

H2: Step-by-step setup

H3: 1 — Start at Ledger.com/Start

Open ledger.com/start and follow the device-specific flow. The site guides you to download the official Ledger Wallet app and choose your device model.

H3: 2 — Install Ledger Wallet (app)

Download Ledger Wallet only from the official Ledger site or official app stores. Install and open the app, then follow the on-screen prompts. The app will walk you through creating a PIN, generating a recovery phrase, and adding accounts.

H3: 3 — Create a PIN & recovery phrase

On the device, choose a secure PIN you can remember. The device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase (some devices may use alternatives in future models). Write the words down in order on the supplied card and store that card offline in a secure location (safe, safety deposit box). Never share those words.

H2: Using Ledger Wallet for everyday tasks

H3: Connect and add accounts

Open the Ledger Wallet app, connect your device, and add accounts for each blockchain you want to manage (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.). Use the device screen to verify and approve every transaction — the app sends a transaction, but the device signs it securely.

H3: Send, receive, stake, swap

Ledger Wallet supports sending and receiving funds, swapping between assets, and staking on supported networks. Confirm amounts and destination addresses on your device display before approving.

H2: Security best practices (H4 & H5)

H3: Never share your recovery words

Your recovery phrase is the master key to your funds. Ledger staff, support agents, or any legitimate service will never ask for it. If anyone requests your seed phrase, stop immediately — it’s a scam.

H3: Keep firmware and app up to date

Regular updates patch vulnerabilities and support new features. Update Ledger device firmware and the Ledger Wallet app from official sources only.

H4: Additional protections

Use a strong, unique PIN and consider a passphrase (advanced users) for an extra layer.
Store recovery cards offline; consider metal seed backups for disaster resistance.
Beware of fake apps and phishing pages — always type ledger.com directly or use saved bookmarks.

H2: Common troubleshooting

H3: Device not recognized

Try a different USB cable or port, ensure the device is unlocked, and confirm the official app is running. Check official support articles for device-specific fixes.

H3: Lost recovery phrase?

If you lose the recovery phrase and still have the device, create a new wallet and transfer funds. If you lose both device and recovery phrase, funds are unrecoverable. Prevention is critical.

H2: Learning & official resources

Ledger provides detailed guides and learning material via Ledger Academy and Support. Bookmark these official resources and consult them for device-specific steps, downloads, and safety notices.

Ledger Start Getting started (support) Download Ledger Wallet Ledger Academy Ledger Wallet (shop) Ledger Support Set up Nano S Set up Nano X Products Ledger App (Android)

H2: Final checklist (quick reference)

Purchase only from official channels.
Start at ledger.com/start and download Ledger Wallet from official sources.
Create a PIN, write your recovery phrase on paper, store it offline.
Confirm every transaction on your device screen.
Keep firmware and apps updated; never share your recovery phrase.

H3: Need help?

Use the Ledger Support center for official guides and contact options. For security news and learning, explore Ledger Academy.