Start — Practical setup for your Ledger device

Follow this secure, step-by-step guide to initialize your Ledger hardware wallet, install Ledger Live, create or restore accounts, and protect your recovery phrase.

What this page does

This start guide directs you to the official Ledger Live download, explains the device initialization flow, and lists essential security actions you must complete before using your wallet. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Who should use it

New Ledger owners, users restoring a wallet from a recovery phrase, or anyone upgrading firmware or installing Ledger Live for the first time. Refer to support pages for device-specific instructions. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Before you begin

Unbox only in private, keep the recovery card provided with the device, and ensure you download Ledger Live from the official download link. Do not enter your recovery phrase into any website or app. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

What you’ll need

  • Ledger hardware device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, Stax, etc.)
  • Computer or mobile device with internet access
  • Official Ledger Live app (desktop or mobile)
  • A secure, offline place to store your 24-word recovery phrase
Download Ledger Live See setup steps

Step-by-step: initialize your device

The recommended flow: install Ledger Live, connect the device, choose “Set up as new device” or “Restore device”, select a PIN, and write down the 24-word recovery phrase exactly as shown on the device. Ledger Live guides you through each screen and validates the backup. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

  1. Download Ledger Live: get the official installer for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android. Verify you are on ledger.com. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
  2. Connect your device: plug in via USB (or use Bluetooth for selected models) and follow the on-device prompts.
  3. Set a secure PIN: choose a PIN you can remember but others cannot guess.
  4. Write down your recovery phrase: store it offline; never enter it into software or share it. This phrase is the only way to recover your accounts. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
  5. Add accounts in Ledger Live: after initialization, use Ledger Live to add cryptocurrency accounts and install apps on the device as needed. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

Security best practices

Your recovery phrase and device firmware are the two most critical security elements. Only update firmware through Ledger Live and verify app sources. If you suspect compromise, move funds to a new device and address immediately. Firmware updates and device-specific instructions are documented on support pages. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

Visit support See setup guides

Troubleshooting & further resources

If Ledger Live does not detect your device, verify the cable, try another USB port, and ensure your OS has the required drivers. For device-specific walkthroughs and videos, consult Ledger Academy and the Support center. For critical issues, use the official support contact channels only. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}