Introduction — Why this guide
This official getting-started guide walks you through the recommended Ledger onboarding flow: downloading Ledger Live, initializing a Ledger hardware device, securing your recovery phrase, and adding accounts. It’s written as a concise, security-first checklist so you can get set up confidently.
Overview (quick steps)
- Visit Ledger.com/start and download Ledger Live for your OS.
- Power on your Ledger device and choose “Set up as new device” or restore using your recovery phrase.
- Create a secure PIN and write down the 24-word recovery phrase on the provided card offline.
- Verify your device authenticity via Ledger Live prompts.
- Add crypto accounts in Ledger Live and transfer or receive funds using on-chain addresses displayed by your device.
Device setup (details)
When the device is powered, create a PIN directly on the device screen. Ledger devices will show the 24-word recovery phrase one word at a time; write each word down in order and never save the phrase digitally. After you confirm your recovery phrase, Ledger Live will guide you through final verification and app installation for specific blockchains.
Security — core rules
- Never share your 24-word recovery phrase. Ledger staff will never ask for it.
- Only download Ledger Live from official Ledger domains.
- Use the device display to verify addresses before sending funds — never trust copy/paste alone.
- Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated to benefit from security patches.
Adding accounts & managing crypto
After setup, click Add account in Ledger Live, select the coin (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.), and open the corresponding app on your device. Your public addresses are derived on-device and displayed so Ledger Live can show balances without revealing private keys.
Troubleshooting and support
If you have any doubts, immediately consult official Ledger support pages. Avoid third-party tutorials that ask for your recovery phrase or require you to key it into a website.
Start the official onboarding flow