Ledger Start — Official Getting Started Guide

What is Ledger?

Ledger is a hardware wallet solution that helps you store your cryptocurrency assets securely. Unlike online or software wallets, Ledger devices keep your private keys offline. This “cold storage” method greatly reduces the risk of theft, hacking, or malware. You remain in full control of your crypto.

With Ledger, you can manage Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of other coins and tokens using Ledger Live, the companion software for desktop and mobile. The device itself, combined with Ledger Live, enables you to check balances, send & receive assets, participate in staking, view NFTs, and interact with decentralized applications (dApps), all while protecting your private keys.

Unboxing & Inspection

When your Ledger wallet arrives, take a moment to inspect the package carefully. Ledger ships their devices in tamper‑evident packaging. If anything looks damaged, opened, or tampered with, do not use it—contact support immediately.

Your box should include:

• The Ledger hardware wallet (e.g. Nano S Plus, Nano X, Ledger Flex, or equivalent model)
• A USB‑C cable (or relevant cable depending on the device)
• Recovery sheets to write your recovery phrase
• Quick start leaflet or instruction manual
• Packaging accessories (keychain, lanyard, etc.) if applicable

Setting Up Your Device

Here is how to setup your Ledger hardware wallet safely from scratch:

1. Plug in or power on your Ledger device using the supplied cable or adapter.
2. Follow on‑screen prompts: choose Set up as new device (if this is your first time).
3. Choose a PIN code (usually 4‑8 digits). Make sure it’s something you will remember but not easily guessable.
4. The device will display a 24‑word secret recovery phrase. Write these words in the correct order on the recovery sheets.
5. Confirm the recovery phrase when asked, by selecting/typing the words in order.
6. If prompted, update the firmware via Ledger Live to ensure you have the latest security patches.

Installing Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the secure desktop and mobile application that allows you to manage your Ledger device, check balances, install apps, buy, swap, stake, and more.

To get started:

1. Go to the official Ledger site and download Ledger Live for your platform (Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, Android).
2. Install and open the app.
3. Choose “Get Started”. When asked, indicate that you have a Ledger device (and choose the correct model).
4. Follow the in‑app instructions to connect your device via USB or Bluetooth (depending on the model).
5. Allow any required permissions (on mobile or desktop) for communicating with the Ledger device.
6. Once connected, Ledger Live will verify firmware, apps, and guide you through setting up your accounts.

Recovery Phrase & Backup

Your 24‑word recovery phrase (also known as seed phrase, secret phrase) is the single most important thing for your wallet. It allows you to restore your funds if your Ledger device is lost, stolen, or broken. If someone else gets access to it, your crypto is at risk.

Best practices for backups:

• Write down your recovery phrase on the paper sheets provided. Use a quiet space.
• Do **not** take photos, scans, or store the recovery phrase in any digital form (phone, computer, cloud).
• Consider a metal backup solution that resists fire, water, corrosion.
• Split backups: one copy at home, another in a secure separate location (e.g. safe deposit box).
• Check periodically your backup is still legible (ink hasn’t faded, paper isn’t damaged).

If you ever need to restore, you can use Ledger Live to restore using the recovery phrase. Always ensure you’re restoring on a genuine Ledger device, not a counterfeit.

Using Crypto: Receiving & Sending

Receiving Crypto

1. Open Ledger Live → Accounts tab.
2. Select the account for the cryptocurrency you want to receive (e.g. Bitcoin, Ethereum).
3. Click Receive. Ledger Live will show you an address.
4. On the Ledger device, verify that the address shown on screen matches what’s shown in Ledger Live. Ensure there are no extra characters or phishing manipulation.
5. Copy the address and share it with the sender.

Sending Crypto

1. Open Ledger Live → click “Send”.
2. Select the account (currency) and enter the recipient address.
3. Enter the amount and choose appropriate network fees.
4. Ledger Live will show you a transaction summary.
5. On your Ledger device, verify the destination address, fees, and confirm the transaction physically on the device.

Always double‑check addresses and fees. Mis‑typed addresses can cause irreversible loss of funds. Use copy‑paste when possible and confirm visually on the hardware device.

Security Best Practices

• Only purchase Ledger devices from official Ledger store or authorized resellers.
• Keep the firmware of your device up to date via Ledger Live. Ledger periodically releases updates to address security or compatibility issues.
• Never enter your recovery phrase into any website, app, or share it. Ledger support will never ask for it.
• Beware phishing: URLs that look similar, fake emails claiming to be Ledger, links to fake Ledger Live downloads.
• Use a unique PIN that you don’t use elsewhere, and ideally change it if you suspect compromise.
• Store backup recovery phrase in a location that is secure from fire, water, theft.
• Avoid using public or untrusted computers to access or update your Ledger if possible.
• Verify all transaction details (address, amount, fees) on the device’s screen — hardware wallets are secure in that they require your physical confirmation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What should I do if I lose my Ledger device?

If you lose your Ledger device, you can restore your wallet and access your funds using your 24‑word recovery phrase on a new Ledger device (or compatible seed‑phrase wallet). But loss of your recovery phrase means loss of control. Always keep backup safe.

Can I use Ledger with my smartphone?

Yes. Ledger Live is available on iOS and Android. Some Ledger devices support Bluetooth so you can connect wirelessly; others use USB‑C. Make sure your phone is updated and that you use the official Ledger Live app.

What if someone already knows my PIN, but not my recovery phrase?

If someone knows your PIN but not your recovery phrase, they might access the device if they physically have it. However, they still cannot restore the device elsewhere without the recovery phrase. Change your PIN if you suspect exposure.

Does Ledger support all cryptocurrencies?

Ledger supports thousands of coins & tokens. However, some very new or niche assets may require third‑party wallets or apps connected through Ledger. Always verify support in Ledger Live or on Ledger’s official site.

How often are firmware updates needed?

Ledger issues updates as needed — for security patches, new features, or compatibility with new blockchains. It’s recommended you connect your device and check for updates whenever Ledger Live notifies you.

Is my recovery phrase safe from hacking?

If you follow best practices (never digital storage, keep backups offline, etc.), yes. The biggest risks come from phishing, malware, or if physical access is gained by someone who can access your backup.

Support & Resources

If you ever need help, here are good places to check:

• The official Ledger Support Center via ledger.com/support
• Ledger’s official documentation & tutorials
• Community forums (official Ledger forum, trusted crypto communities)
• Ledger’s security blog for awareness about phishing, updates, threats
• Contact ledger’s support directly if you suspect you’ve been compromised

Save your recovery phrase backup, keep your device safe, and review security notices from Ledger regularly.