This single‑page, ~1500‑word HTML guide shows you how to start at Ledger.com/Start® the right way: downloading the official Ledger Live app, initializing or restoring your Ledger device, logging in securely, backing up your 24‑word recovery phrase, and adopting privacy‑first habits. It’s written in an official‑style tone but is independent and educational—always trust the device screen over any website, and never reveal your recovery phrase.
Follow these carefully sequenced steps. If anything on your computer and on the device screen ever disagrees, cancel the action and review. The device’s screen is the only thing you should ultimately trust for addresses and approvals.
Open the package and verify that it appears factory‑sealed. Check the device and included materials for tampering. If you see anything suspicious—scratches, previously written recovery sheets, unfamiliar accessories—stop and contact support before proceeding. For maximum assurance, purchase devices only from the official Ledger store or vetted resellers.
Type ledger.com/start into your browser’s address bar and press Enter. Avoid search‑engine ads and third‑party links; phishing sites often imitate language, colors, and logos. Bookmark the official page now and use that bookmark going forward.
Choose the installer for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux). When possible, verify the checksum/signature published on the site. Install the application and launch it once setup completes.
Use a data‑capable USB cable or a trusted adapter. Cheap or charge‑only cables can cause detection failures during firmware updates. Keep the device connected and visible while you proceed through the flow in Ledger Live.
New wallet: The device will generate a brand‑new recovery phrase. Write the 24 words by hand on the provided sheets (or a metal backup). Do not photograph, type, or upload them. Restore: If you already have a recovery phrase, enter it on the device only—never on the computer. This defeats keyloggers and clipboard malware.
Pick a non‑obvious PIN with sufficient length and randomness. Avoid birthdays, patterns, or repeated digits. Enable auto‑lock so the device protects itself when unattended.
In Ledger Live, run the built‑in genuine check to confirm your device’s authenticity. If a firmware update is available, apply it now while your device is empty or after you’ve confirmed you have a good offline recovery backup.
For each asset you plan to manage (e.g., BTC, ETH), install the corresponding app on the device via Ledger Live, then select Add account. Consider creating separate accounts for testing, daily spending, and savings to reduce risk.
Click Receive and choose an account. Ledger Live shows an address, and your device will display it too. Compare every character; if anything differs, cancel immediately. For new counterparties, send a small test transaction first.
In settings, turn on password lock for the Ledger Live app, review analytics/diagnostics toggles, and limit permissions to the minimum required. On desktop OSes, restrict screen‑recording and accessibility permissions.
Most losses stem from human factors: phishing, rushed approvals, and mishandled recovery phrases. These practices address real‑world failure modes and are worth the small amount of extra effort.
Type ledger.com/start or use a trusted bookmark. Inspect the certificate when in doubt. Look‑alike domains and sponsored search results are common traps.
Your 24‑word phrase is your wallet. Store it offline only, ideally in two separate secure locations. Never scan, photograph, or type it into a computer or mobile device.
For addresses, amounts, and confirmations, the device display is authoritative. If the device and computer disagree, cancel and investigate—do not try to “fix” it mid‑transaction.
Apply Ledger Live and device firmware updates from the official source. Updates include security fixes and compatibility improvements.
Use distinct accounts for testing, day‑to‑day spending, and long‑term storage. This limits exposure if an address is shared publicly or a counterparty is compromised.
No legitimate support agent, website, or app will ask for your recovery phrase or PIN. If anyone requests it—even "to verify ownership"—it’s a scam. End the conversation and return to your bookmark.
Public blockchains are transparent. Reusing addresses allows observers to link your transactions and balances. Generate new receiving addresses where supported and avoid posting addresses in public forums.
In Ledger Live, review analytics and diagnostic settings. On your OS, restrict screen‑recording, input‑monitoring, and accessibility permissions to the bare minimum, and grant them only when needed.
Prefer trusted, private networks. If you must use public Wi‑Fi, consider a reputable VPN and avoid sensitive operations. Keep your operating system and browser patched.
When traveling, keep the device separate from any written backups. Do not store the recovery phrase in the same bag as the device.
Try another USB port and a known‑good data cable (charge‑only cables won’t work). Close other wallet apps that may occupy the interface. On Linux, install the required udev rules. Restart Ledger Live and the computer if the device was connected during installation.
Update to the latest version, restart your computer, and check firewall/antivirus prompts. If syncing stalls, clear Ledger Live’s cache in settings, switch networks temporarily, and resync.
Do not unplug unless instructed by on‑screen prompts. Reopen Ledger Live; most updates resume automatically. Ensure a stable cable and reliable power during the process.
After too many failed attempts, the device wipes by design. Restore using your 24‑word recovery phrase on the device. This is why offline backups are essential.
Your funds reside on the blockchain; your recovery phrase controls them. Acquire a replacement device, restore using the phrase on‑device, and re‑add accounts in Ledger Live.
If the address on the device doesn’t match the one in Ledger Live, cancel immediately. Update software, scan for malware, and verify again. Never proceed with a mismatch.
If you suspect tampering, encounter repeated genuine‑check failures, or experience behavior that contradicts the device screen, stop and contact official support via the links provided on the official start page you bookmarked. Never share your recovery phrase.
Ledger Live is the recommended companion for firmware updates, account management, and sending/receiving. Some third‑party wallets support Ledger devices, but always evaluate their security posture and verify official download sources.
It’s a human‑readable backup of your private keys. Anyone who knows the 24 words can move your funds. Keep it offline, duplicate it carefully, and never type it into a website or support chat.
Yes. Your private keys remain on the device. You can install Ledger Live on multiple trusted computers and reconnect the same device to access your accounts.
Yes, but separate it from your recovery phrase. Consider using a secondary device for travel with limited funds and keep your primary device and backups at home.
Treat exposure as a total compromise. Immediately move funds to a new wallet created on a secure device with a fresh recovery phrase. Do not delay.
Desktop often provides a more controlled environment and full features. Mobile is convenient for light interactions. Use what best fits your operational and privacy needs.