Official Site® | Ledger Hardware Wallet | Getting Started

Welcome to the Official Site® quick start for the Ledger Hardware Wallet. This guide walks new users through unboxing, initial setup, and the essential security practices required to use a Ledger Hardware Wallet safely and confidently.

Unboxing and first look at your Ledger Hardware Wallet

When you receive your device, inspect the packaging and seals — an unopened, genuine purchase should arrive with factory seals intact. Check the included items and Quick Start card. If anything looks tampered with, contact the seller before proceeding with your Ledger Hardware Wallet.

Preparing to initialize your Ledger Hardware Wallet

Choose a clean, offline space to set up your Ledger Hardware Wallet. Have a secure pen and the provided recovery sheet ready. Do not capture the recovery phrase digitally — never store your Ledger Hardware Wallet recovery phrase on a phone, photo, cloud service, or email.

Step-by-step: initializing your Ledger Hardware Wallet

Connect the Ledger Hardware Wallet to your computer using the included cable and power it on.
Follow on-device prompts to create a new wallet or restore from an existing recovery phrase on your Ledger Hardware Wallet.
Record the recovery phrase exactly as shown on the device — these words are the only backup for your Ledger Hardware Wallet.
Set a PIN on your Ledger Hardware Wallet that is easy for you to remember but hard for others to guess.
Install Ledger Live and follow the app instructions to add accounts and apps for supported cryptocurrencies to your Ledger Hardware Wallet.

Using Ledger Live with your Ledger Hardware Wallet

Ledger Live is the companion app for managing accounts and software on your Ledger Hardware Wallet. Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website. Use Ledger Live to install coin apps, check balances, and create transactions — while keeping private keys offline on the Ledger Hardware Wallet.

Security best practices for your Ledger Hardware Wallet

Never share your recovery phrase. Anyone with the recovery phrase can access funds on your Ledger Hardware Wallet.
Keep the recovery phrase offline and in multiple secure locations. Consider using a fireproof safe for long-term storage of your Ledger Hardware Wallet recovery sheet.
Use official firmware updates only. Verify firmware updates through Ledger Live before applying them to your Ledger Hardware Wallet.
Enable passphrase options carefully. A passphrase can add a layer of security to your Ledger Hardware Wallet but increases recovery complexity — document your method securely.

Recovering an account to another Ledger Hardware Wallet

If your Ledger Hardware Wallet is lost or damaged, you can restore accounts on a new compatible device using the recovery phrase. Only input recovery words on a device you trust — never enter them into a website or a phone. Treat any recovery process as sensitive for your Ledger Hardware Wallet.

Common setup issues with Ledger Hardware Wallet and how to fix them

If your Ledger Hardware Wallet is not recognized, confirm the cable and USB port, update Ledger Live, and restart your computer. For persistent problems, consult Ledger’s official support channels — avoid third-party fixes that might compromise your Ledger Hardware Wallet.

Final checklist before transacting with your Ledger Hardware Wallet

Verify firmware and Ledger Live are up to date for your Ledger Hardware Wallet.
Confirm accounts are added and addresses match those shown on your Ledger Hardware Wallet device before sending funds.
Test small transactions first to ensure everything is functioning with your Ledger Hardware Wallet.

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about using a Ledger Hardware Wallet and is not financial or legal advice. Always verify device instructions and downloads through Ledger’s official channels. Cryptocurrency transactions are irreversible and carry risk — do your own research and consider professional advice for significant holdings before transacting with your Ledger Hardware Wallet.