Ledger setup guide Visit Ledger.com
Independent guide · your first steps, made simple

Start with confidence.
Stay in control.

A clear, security-first walkthrough for setting up your Ledger device, checking the essentials, and taking your first steps with self-custody.

Start setup Go to official Ledger start
Security tips before every step. No shortcuts with your recovery phrase.
THE SELF-CUSTODY STARTER GUIDEScroll to get started
A BETTER BEGINNING

Small steps.
Stronger habits.

Your keys stay offline

Understand what your device protects.

You verify every action

Check important details on-device.

You set the pace

Learn safely before moving assets.

THE SETUP, STEP BY STEP

Four steps to a safer start.

Take your time. Keep your device in hand, follow its on-screen instructions, and use official Ledger resources if anything looks different.

01

Unbox and inspect

Buy from Ledger or an authorized reseller. Check the package and device for anything that seems altered, but remember: packaging alone cannot prove authenticity.

Learn about device security
02

Install Ledger Live

Download Ledger Live only from Ledger’s official website. Follow the prompts to connect your device and let the app guide you through the genuine check.

Get Ledger Live
03

Initialize your device

Choose to set up as a new device and create your PIN directly on the hardware wallet. Keep the PIN private and do not use one provided by someone else.

Never accept a pre-filled recovery phrase
04

Write down your phrase

Record the 24 words in the order shown, offline and in a private place. Verify each word on your device. Anyone with this phrase can access your assets.

Never photograph or upload it
Remember: the phrase is your backup, not a login.

Ledger support will never ask you to reveal, type, or send your recovery phrase—not even to “verify” your wallet.

YOUR SECURITY CHECKLIST

Pause when something
doesn’t feel right.

Scams often create urgency or imitate trusted brands. These simple checks help you protect your recovery phrase and make deliberate decisions.

Explore Ledger Academy
Keep your recovery phrase offline

Store it privately on paper or a secure physical backup—never in a cloud note, photo, email, or message.

01
Confirm the full website address

Type official URLs yourself. Beware of lookalike domains, unsolicited QR codes, and links in direct messages.

02
Review transactions on your device

Check the address and amount on the hardware wallet screen before approving anything.

03
Ignore pressure and “support” DMs

Do not approve unknown requests or share secrets with anyone claiming they can fix your wallet.

04
GOOD TO KNOW

Questions, answered.

Still unsure? The safest next step is always to verify with Ledger’s official support resources.

Visit Ledger Support
Where should I download Ledger Live?

Use the official Ledger download page at ledger.com/ledger-live. Check the address carefully before downloading, and avoid links sent in unsolicited messages or search ads that look unfamiliar.

Will Ledger ever ask me for my recovery phrase?

No legitimate Ledger employee, app, website, or support agent should ask you to enter or share your 24-word recovery phrase. Anyone asking for it is attempting to take control of your assets.

What if I already have a recovery phrase?

Only restore a wallet using a recovery phrase you created or securely recorded yourself. Enter it directly on your Ledger device, never into a computer, phone, website, or chat.

Do I need to transfer crypto to finish setup?

No. Initializing your device and setting up Ledger Live does not require you to deposit or transfer crypto. You can complete setup and learn the workflow before making any transaction.

READY WHEN YOU ARE

Take your next step
from the official source.

Use Ledger’s own getting-started page for device-specific instructions and the latest downloads.

Continue to Ledger.com/start Always double-check the URL before entering any information.