Welcome to the official Ledger® Onboarding™ Setup Hub. This is your trusted guide for setting up your Ledger hardware wallet safely and securely. Whether you’re a new user or reinitializing your device, this guide ensures that you take every step correctly, keeping your digital assets secure from unauthorized access. Visit Ledger.com/start for verified resources and firmware updates.
Ledger devices are globally recognized for their top-tier security architecture. They safeguard private keys in a certified Secure Element (SE) chip, preventing exposure to online threats. By completing the onboarding process properly, you ensure full control over your cryptocurrency holdings, NFTs, and DeFi assets.
Upon receiving your Ledger device, ensure that:
Ledger never provides pre-filled recovery phrases. If you find one, stop immediately and contact Ledger Support.
Go to Ledger.com/start to download Ledger Live — the official companion app for your hardware wallet. Avoid downloading from third-party sources to prevent exposure to phishing software.
Available for:
Follow these installation steps:
Ensure your computer or smartphone has a secure, malware-free environment before proceeding.
Connect your device via USB or Bluetooth (for Nano X and Stax). The device will power on automatically. Follow these steps carefully:
Your recovery phrase is the single most important part of your crypto security. It consists of 24 words displayed one by one on your device’s screen. Write them down carefully on the recovery sheet provided. Do not:
Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase. Anyone who knows your 24 words can access your assets.
Once you’ve set up your device and recovery phrase, connect it to Ledger Live. The app automatically verifies authenticity through the Secure Element chip. If your device is genuine, you’ll see a confirmation message in Ledger Live. If not, disconnect immediately and contact support.
After verification, you can install cryptocurrency apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana) directly through Ledger Live:
Each app enables your device to manage keys and transactions for a specific blockchain. The apps themselves do not contain funds — they simply enable signing operations.
To view your assets, you must add accounts:
Once connected, you’ll see your balance, transaction history, and portfolio value.
To receive crypto:
Always verify addresses on your device screen, as your computer screen could be compromised by malware.
To send assets safely:
Ledger regularly releases firmware updates for enhanced security. To update:
Firmware updates never alter your private keys or funds. They only improve performance and security features.
Ledger recommends storing your recovery phrase in a secure physical location, ideally in a fireproof and waterproof container. Some users opt for metal backup plates for additional protection. Always store your phrase offline and away from prying eyes.
If your device is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can restore your wallet using your 24-word recovery phrase:
Your accounts and assets will reappear once synced with Ledger Live. Never type your recovery phrase into a computer or website — only into a Ledger device.
Ledger Live supports staking for major networks like Ethereum, Solana, Polkadot, and Tezos. You can earn passive income while keeping your keys secure. You can also connect Ledger to DeFi applications via Ledger Live’s “Discover” tab or using WalletConnect-compatible platforms.
Unfortunately, crypto users are frequent targets of phishing scams. Protect yourself by remembering:
Keep your device firmware and Ledger Live app up to date. Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on exchange accounts. Keep your computer’s antivirus software current and avoid public Wi-Fi when managing crypto assets.
You can use multiple Ledger devices for redundancy or different portfolios (e.g., one for personal use, another for long-term storage). Each device can be restored using the same 24-word recovery phrase if desired, but ensure you understand the security implications of cloning wallets.
If you encounter issues, visit Ledger Support for official troubleshooting articles. Common issues include:
Do not seek help from social media replies or unofficial forums — scammers often impersonate Ledger Support.
Ledger provides the hardware — you are the security owner. Never share your recovery phrase, keep your device firmware up to date, and always use the official Ledger Live app from Ledger.com/start.
By following this official onboarding guide, you’ve taken the right steps to secure your digital assets using Ledger. Your hardware wallet ensures that your private keys remain offline, under your full control. Remember: security is a continuous process — stay informed, stay cautious, and keep your recovery phrase safe.
Start, secure, and safeguard your digital journey at Ledger.com/start.