YOUR FIRST STEPS, MADE CLEAR
A calm, practical guide to getting started with Ledger. Set up your device, protect your recovery phrase, and learn the essentials before your first transaction.
About 10 minutes to read · Keep your recovery phrase private
THE ESSENTIALS
Take each step at your own pace. Your Ledger device keeps your private keys protected while you approve activity directly on the device.
Unbox your device and connect it using the supplied cable, or follow the wireless setup instructions for your model. Power it on and choose “Set up as a new device.” Read each prompt on the device screen; your wallet is created locally, and you remain in control of its recovery information.
Your device will display a recovery phrase, usually 24 words. Write every word in the correct order on the recovery sheet provided, then store it offline in a private, secure place. Never photograph it, type it into a computer, save it in cloud storage, or share it with anyone.
Download Ledger Wallet (formerly Ledger Live) only from Ledger’s official website or your device’s official app store. Open the app, choose to connect a device, and follow the pairing prompts. Genuine Ledger devices verify important actions on the device itself; confirm prompts there, not just on your screen.
Choose the network you want to use and add its account in the app. Your account address is public and can receive assets. Start with a small test transfer if you are learning, and make sure the network and asset match before sending anything.
Good to know Ledger will never ask you to enter your recovery phrase into a website, app, chat, or phone call to “sync,” “validate,” or “unlock” your wallet.
See security tipsSECURITY, IN YOUR HANDS
Your recovery phrase is the master backup to your wallet. Anyone who gets it may be able to access your assets. Ledger cannot retrieve it for you, and no legitimate support agent needs to see it.
Keep it offline. Store the written words somewhere private, protected from loss, damage, and unauthorized access.
Never share it. No support team, giveaway, verification page, or trusted friend should ask you for it.
Trust the device screen. Carefully check the recipient, network, and amount on your Ledger before approving.
WHEN YOU’RE READY
Practice the same simple routine every time: verify the details, confirm on your device, and leave room to pause if something feels unexpected.
Confirm the receiving wallet supports the asset and network you are sending on. Similar-looking tokens may exist on different networks, and a mismatch can make funds difficult or impossible to recover.
Compare the full recipient address carefully. Malware can replace copied addresses, so verify the address you intend to use and check it again on your device screen before approving.
Review the transaction details and permissions. If the device displays information you do not understand, or the details differ from your intent, reject the request and investigate through official support resources.
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
Give yourself a moment to check the basics. A secure setup is a good setup—there’s no need to rush.
The device and its packaging show no sign of tampering.
You created your PIN and recovery phrase yourself during setup.
You downloaded Ledger Wallet from an official source.
You know where your offline recovery phrase is stored.
A LITTLE CARE GOES A LONG WAY
Self-custody gives you more control and asks you to take responsibility for a few important details. Make these checks part of your routine.
Install device firmware and app updates only through Ledger’s official channels. Read the update details, keep your device charged, and follow the instructions shown in the official app. An update does not require you to disclose your recovery phrase.
Urgency is a common tool in scams. If a message says your wallet will be frozen, your funds are at risk, or you must act immediately, stop and verify the claim independently using official support resources you navigate to yourself.
Choose a private, durable place for your recovery phrase and consider how you would access it if you were away or your home were affected. Do not store all copies together, and never add the words to a digital note for convenience.
A FEW THINGS TO KNOW
Get familiar with the basics before you make your first move.
A Ledger signer is a hardware device that protects the private keys used to authorize transactions. You review and approve actions on the device, while Ledger Wallet provides an interface for managing supported accounts and assets. Your assets themselves exist on their respective blockchain networks.
A replacement device can be restored using your recovery phrase, provided you have kept it secure and legible. A PIN helps protect the device, but it is not a substitute for your recovery phrase. If your device is lost, take care not to reveal your phrase while arranging a replacement.
If you are new to a network or address, consider a small test transfer first. Network transactions are generally irreversible. Check that the address, asset, network, and amount on the device match what you intended before you confirm.
Use Ledger’s official support resources and verify the address of any website before connecting a wallet. Be cautious of unsolicited direct messages, search advertisements, and support accounts that pressure you to act urgently. Never share your recovery phrase to troubleshoot a problem.
YOU’RE READY FOR THE NEXT STEP
Build good habits from the very first tap. Verify what you see, protect what’s yours, and take your time.
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