Get started with Ledger — Secure your crypto in minutes
Ledger hardware wallets protect your crypto by keeping your private keys offline. This page walks you through unboxing, installation, initializing your device, securing your recovery phrase, and performing your first transaction — all step-by-step, with best practices that prioritize safety and simplicity.
No custody, only you: Ledger devices are non-custodial — you control the keys. Ledger provides the tools and guidance so you keep control safely.
Hardware-secured keys
Private keys never leave your Ledger device. Signing is performed on-device, and transactions require your physical confirmation.
Ledger Live
Manage accounts, send/receive, stake, and view portfolio performance with Ledger Live — the official desktop and mobile companion app.
Wide coin support
Support for hundreds of coins and tokens through integrated apps and partner integrations — from Bitcoin and Ethereum to many ERC-20 tokens and layer-2 networks.
Recovery & backup
Back up your seed phrase offline. Use recommended storage methods and follow best practices to keep recovery information safe and private.
Open-source & auditable
Core components are auditable and Ledger publishes security advisories, release notes, and developer documentation for transparency.
Beginner & advanced modes
Guided setup for new users and advanced features like passphrase, multisig, and developer tools for power users.
How to start — unbox, setup, secure
Unboxing your Ledger device is the beginning of a security-first routine. Inspect the packaging and tamper-evident seals before powering the device. Ledger ships devices in sealed manufacturers’ packaging; if anything looks compromised, pause and contact support. Genuine devices include a package with a device, USB cable, recovery sheets (or a blank recovery card), and printed quick-start materials.
Next, download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website. Ledger Live is the official application that helps you manage apps on the device, install coin-specific apps, create accounts, and send and receive funds. Ledger Live exists for desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux) and mobile (iOS, Android). For web integrations or advanced transports, follow the platform-specific guidance in the downloads section.
When you start Ledger Live it will detect your device and offer a guided setup. Choose to create a new device if you are starting fresh. The device will generate a recovery phrase — usually 24 words for maximum compatibility and security — and display them on the device screen. Write these words down in order, on the included recovery sheet or a durable medium. Never store the seed phrase digitally: no photos, no cloud backups, no text files. Treat the seed like the single key to your funds.
Set a PIN on your device to protect local access. The PIN defends against casual theft and local unauthorized use. Ledger devices also support an optional passphrase feature; this effectively creates hidden wallets derived from your seed in combination with a secret phrase. Passphrases are powerful but dangerous if mismanaged — if you use a passphrase, ensure you store the passphrase itself securely, because it is required to recover those accounts.
Once your device is initialized, you can install apps for the blockchains you plan to use (Bitcoin app, Ethereum app, etc.). Ledger Live shows recommended apps and helps you create accounts. For each account, Ledger Live will show receiving addresses. Verify addresses on your device screen before sharing them with senders — the device will display the same address so you can confirm there are no tampering attempts from the host computer.
Before sending or receiving significant amounts, do a small test transaction. Confirm the address and amount on the device display, and only approve if it matches. This small test helps validate that your environment, device, and Ledger Live are operating correctly.
Best practices summary: never share your seed phrase; verify downloads and checksums; keep firmware and Ledger Live up to date (after reviewing release notes if you practice high security); and consider physical redundancy for seed storage — multiple secure copies in separate safe locations.
Downloads & installation
Download Ledger Live and any required drivers or helper utilities from the official Ledger site. For desktop, Ledger Live installers are available for Windows (EXE/MSI), macOS (PKG), and Linux (AppImage / deb / rpm) depending on your distribution. Mobile users can install Ledger Live from the official app stores. Always prefer the official sources: Ledger's website or verified app stores.
For distribution and verification: each release page contains checksums and release notes. If you're unfamiliar with checksum verification, Ledger Live includes in-app guidance for most users. Developers and advanced users can access source code, reproducible build instructions, and cryptographic signatures for higher assurance workflows.
Troubleshooting & support
Common issues include USB connectivity problems, missing drivers, or app installation conflicts. If your device isn't recognized: try a different USB cable or port, ensure the device is unlocked, restart Ledger Live, and check for platform-specific troubleshooting guides. For mobile connections, ensure your phone’s Bluetooth/USB settings allow the connection and that you use official cables and adapters.
If you suspect tampering or corrupted firmware, do not enter your seed anywhere. Contact official support for guided steps and always verify firmware updates through Ledger Live prompts. Never share your recovery phrase with support staff or anyone else — they do not need it to help you.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need Ledger Live to use my device?
Ledger Live is the recommended companion app for most tasks — app installation, account management, firmware updates. Advanced users can use third-party wallets that support Ledger devices, but only install applications and updates from trusted sources.
What happens if I lose my Ledger device?
You can recover funds using your recovery phrase on any compatible hardware or software wallet that supports the same standards. If you used a passphrase, you also need that passphrase to recover those hidden accounts.
Should I write my seed on paper or metal?
Write the seed on the provided recovery sheet or use a certified metal backup plate for durability against fire, water, and time. Verify vendors and do not trust unknown third-party products without review.
Is Ledger open-source?
Ledger publishes many open-source components and documentation. Certain proprietary elements exist; Ledger maintains security audits, published advisories, and developer resources for transparency.
Ready to secure your crypto?
Download Ledger Live, initialize your device, and complete the quick start checklist. Need help? Visit support for step-by-step videos and guides.