Getting Started with Ledger the Right Way

New device? This concise guide shows you how to use ledger.com/start to set up your wallet safely—download Ledger Live, verify your device, and protect your 24-word recovery phrase.

What You’ll Need

Your Ledger Nano device and the supplied USB cable
A trusted computer with admin rights and up-to-date OS
Pen + the paper recovery sheets (avoid photos or cloud notes)
15–20 quiet minutes to focus on the recovery phrase step

Set Up in 8 Straightforward Steps

Open ledger.com/start on your computer and select your device model.
Download and install Ledger Live for your operating system.
Connect and unlock your Ledger device with the two buttons.
Create a strong PIN on the device (never reuse old PINs).
Generate your 24-word recovery phrase and write it down clearly and in order.
Let Ledger Live check device authenticity and install any firmware updates.
In Ledger Live → Manager, install the apps you need (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
Add accounts, verify receive addresses on the device screen, and start with a small test transaction.

If the address on your computer doesn’t match the one on the device screen, stop—do not send.

Security Must-Do’s

Never share your 24 words. No support agent or app will ever ask for them.
Verify on device. Approve addresses and transactions only after confirming them on the Ledger screen.
Keep software current. Update Ledger Live and firmware for security and compatibility fixes.
Back up properly. Store a second written copy of your phrase in a separate, secure location.
Beware phishing. Bookmark the official setup page to avoid look-alikes.

Restoring an Existing Wallet

Choose “Restore from recovery phrase” on the device and carefully enter all 24 words using the buttons. After setup, install your coin apps, re-add accounts in Ledger Live, and your balances will repopulate from the blockchain.

Send a small in-and-out test transaction before moving larger amounts.

Common Fixes

Device not detected: Try another USB port/cable, unlock the device, and update firmware.
App storage full: Uninstall coin apps you don’t use—keys and funds remain safe.
Address looks different: Networks can format addresses differently; always trust the device screen.

Open ledger.com/start