Overview — Why Ledger Start matters
Starting up a Ledger device correctly is the most important step in protecting your crypto. Ledger hardware wallets isolate private keys inside a secure element and require a local PIN and optionally a passphrase for access. Ledger Live acts as the companion interface for installing apps, adding accounts, and verifying transactions. This guide condenses the official Ledger Start experience into clear steps you can follow now.
1. Unboxing & verification
When your Ledger device arrives, inspect the packaging. Official Ledger devices ship sealed and include a recovery sheet. If packaging looks tampered with, do not use the device and contact Ledger Support. Use the recovery sheet that comes with the device for recording your recovery phrase; avoid loose paper if possible.
Security reminder: only get Ledger devices from trusted sellers or directly from Ledger.com. Avoid second-hand devices or unknown resellers to reduce tamper risk.
2. Install Ledger Live & prepare host
Download Ledger Live from the official page: Ledger Live Download. Choose Desktop or Mobile depending on your device. Verify the signature/checksum if you want extra assurance: Verify Ledger Live. On desktop, close other wallet software and ensure your OS is up to date before connecting your Ledger.
3. Initialize your Ledger device
Power on the device and follow on-screen prompts. Select "Set up as new device" if you’re initializing. Choose a PIN — use a PIN you can remember but that others cannot guess. The device will generate your recovery phrase (usually 24 words). Write the words in order on the provided recovery sheet. Do not digitize the seed phrase or take a photo. Confirm the words on the device when prompted.
If you already have a recovery phrase and are restoring, use the "Restore from recovery phrase" option and enter words using the device interface.
4. Using Ledger Live Manager
Open Ledger Live, go to Manager, and connect your Ledger. Ledger Live uses the Manager to install blockchain apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) directly onto your device. Install only the apps you intend to use — the secure element has limited app storage for each device model. After installing, add accounts in Ledger Live to view balances and history while the private keys remain secured on the device.
5. Verifying addresses & transactions
When receiving funds, always verify the address on your Ledger’s screen before publishing or sharing it. When sending funds, Ledger Live constructs the transaction but your device will display recipient and amount for manual confirmation. This physical confirmation on the device is the core protection against host computer malware.
6. Firmware updates and maintenance
Ledger periodically releases firmware updates to enhance security and add features. Ledger Live notifies you when updates are available. Always back up your recovery phrase before performing a firmware update. Follow on-screen instructions and never interrupt the update process once started. If an update fails, consult Ledger Support for recovery steps.
7. Advanced security options
Beyond PIN and recovery phrase, Ledger supports a passphrase (a 25th word) that acts as an additional secret deriving completely different wallets. Use passphrases cautiously — they increase security but also increase responsibility: losing the passphrase means permanent loss of those accounts. Consider hardware security best practices like storing recovery in a safe, using a metal backup, and minimizing online exposure of seed words.
8. Troubleshooting common issues
If your device is not recognized, try the following:
- Check your USB cable and try another port; avoid unpowered hubs.
- Ensure Ledger Live is up to date.
- On macOS, check Security & Privacy -> Allow apps downloaded from.
- If you forget your PIN but have your recovery phrase, you can reset the device and restore from backup.
- For device-specific issues consult: Device Support.
9. Restoring a lost device
If your device is lost or damaged, obtain a replacement Ledger and choose "Restore from recovery phrase" during setup. Enter your 24-word phrase carefully in the correct order. If you used a passphrase, you must provide it as well to access those specific accounts. After restoring, reinstall necessary apps in Manager and re-add accounts in Ledger Live.
10. Final checklist before you start using your device
Before sending or receiving meaningful funds, confirm the below:
- Your recovery phrase is written and stored offline.
- You set a PIN and understand how to enter it.
- Ledger Live was downloaded from the official Ledger site.
- Necessary apps are installed via Manager and accounts are added.
- You verified a small test transaction successfully.
Ledger maintains a detailed Start page with device guides, FAQs, and security articles — use the official links in the side panel to dive deeper into any step.