STEP 01
Check your device
Buy through Ledger's official store or an authorized reseller. If anything about the packaging or device seems unusual, pause and contact official Ledger support.
Visit Ledger.comIndependent getting-started guide
Your crypto.
Your keys.
Your move.
A calm, practical guide to getting started with a Ledger hardware wallet—from setting up your device to building safer habits for managing digital assets.
Take it at your own pace. Never share your recovery phrase.
Security starts with you
Simple setup stepsStart with the essentials
Security, explainedKnow what to protect—and why
Learn as you goClear answers to common questions
01 / Getting started
A good start is a
step-by-step start.
Setting up a hardware wallet is about more than plugging in a device. Take a few minutes to verify the source, follow the on-device instructions, and understand how your recovery phrase works.
STEP 02
Install the companion app
Download Ledger Wallet (formerly Ledger Live) from the official Ledger website. Follow its setup flow to initialize your device and install the apps you need.
Find Ledger WalletSTEP 03
Write down your recovery phrase
Record the words shown on your device, in order, and store them offline somewhere private. Anyone with this phrase can control the associated assets.
Understand recovery phrasesOnly follow instructions shown on your device and official Ledger channels.
Official support Never enter your recovery phrase into a website, app, message, or support chat—even if it looks convincing.
02 / Protect what matters
Security is a habit, not a button.
Your wallet helps you manage access to digital assets, but staying safe also depends on the choices you make. These fundamentals are worth remembering from day one.
Your 24-word recovery phrase is the backup to your wallet. Ledger will never ask you to share it. Keep it offline, private, and away from cameras or cloud storage.
Verify addresses on the device
Before approving a transaction, carefully compare the destination address and details on your Ledger device screen with what you intended to send.
Pause before you approve
Read transaction details before confirming. If you do not understand what a prompt is asking you to sign, reject it and investigate first.
Use official downloads and links
Type official addresses yourself or use bookmarked links. Be wary of sponsored search results, unsolicited messages, and urgent requests to “fix” your wallet.
Never share your secret recovery phrase
Do not type it into a computer or phone, send it to anyone, or store a photo of it online. Anyone asking for it is not providing legitimate support.
03 / The essentials
A few terms worth knowing.
Understanding the basics makes the first setup feel much less unfamiliar. Keep these ideas in mind as you explore wallet features and crypto networks.
Self-custody
You control the private keys that authorize transactions. That control also means protecting your recovery phrase is your responsibility.
Networks
Digital assets use different blockchain networks. Make sure the sending and receiving networks match before making a transfer.
Recovery phrase
A secret backup used to restore wallet access. Store it offline, and do not disclose it to anyone or enter it online.
Test transfers
For a new destination or network, consider a small test transaction first and account for network fees before sending.
04 / Quick answers
Questions, answered.
A few straightforward answers for a more confident first setup.
Need product-specific help?
For current device instructions and account support, use Ledger's official help center.
Go to Ledger Support ↗What is a Ledger hardware wallet?
It is a physical device designed to help keep private keys isolated while you use supported apps to manage digital assets. You review and approve transactions on the device itself.
Is Ledger Wallet the same as Ledger Live?
Ledger Live has been renamed Ledger Wallet. Always download the current app through Ledger's official website and follow the instructions for your specific device.
What should I do with my recovery phrase?
Write it down exactly as displayed during setup, keep it offline in a secure private place, and never share or enter it online. Do not take a photo or save it in cloud storage.
Can Ledger Support ask for my recovery phrase?
No. Do not disclose your recovery phrase to anyone—not support staff, a website, an app, or someone claiming your wallet needs to be “validated.”
What if I receive a suspicious email or message?
Do not click links or reply with private information. Visit Ledger's official website by typing its address yourself and check the official support resources for guidance.
Does using a hardware wallet remove all risk?
No. A hardware wallet is one part of a security approach. Phishing, malicious approvals, incorrect addresses, and lost recovery backups are still important risks to understand.
Ready to begin,
at your own pace?
Start with the official setup instructions—and take a moment to verify every step.