GETTING STARTED GUIDE
Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started® | Ledger®
A few careful first steps can help you take control of your digital assets with confidence. Use this guide to set up your Ledger hardware wallet, connect it to Ledger Live, and understand the security habits that help protect your accounts.
Start with your Ledger hardware wallet
Unbox your Ledger wallet and check that the device, packaging, and included materials appear intact. Purchase through Ledger or an authorized seller, and follow the setup instructions shown on the device itself. During Ledger wallet Setup, you will create a PIN and your device will generate a recovery phrase. Write the phrase down offline, in the order shown, and keep it somewhere private and secure. Never photograph it, type it into a website, or share it with anyone—not even someone claiming to be support. Ledger will never ask you for your recovery phrase.
Your recovery phrase is the backup to your wallet, not a password to enter into an app. If anyone obtains it, they may be able to access your assets. Take your time, verify each word on the device screen, and store the backup separately from your device. A hardware wallet keeps your private keys isolated while you review and approve transactions directly on the device.
Install Ledger Live from an official source
Ledger Live is the companion app for managing accounts, viewing balances, and preparing transactions with your device. For Ledger Live App Download, go to Ledger’s official website and select the version for your computer or mobile device. Check the domain carefully before downloading; avoid sponsored lookalike links, unsolicited messages, and unofficial app stores. Ledger Live Desktop provides the same essential account-management flow on supported desktop systems.
Open the app, connect your wallet, and complete the on-screen authenticity and setup checks. Follow prompts on both the app and your Ledger device, and confirm that addresses and transaction details match on the device display before approving anything. A Ledger Live Login may be requested for optional Ledger services, but it is not your wallet PIN and should never require your recovery phrase.
Connect accounts and review every action
Once setup is complete, add the accounts you need in Ledger Live and use the app to receive, send, and monitor supported assets. When receiving funds, compare the address displayed in the app with the address verified on your Ledger device. For outgoing transfers, double-check the destination, network, and amount before confirming on-device. Transactions on blockchains are generally irreversible, so pause if anything looks unfamiliar.
Some people search for a Ledger Wallet Extension to connect to compatible web applications. Only use integrations listed or linked by official Ledger resources, and carefully verify connection requests. An extension or website should never ask you to enter your recovery phrase. Keep your device firmware and Ledger Live updated using official prompts, and stay alert to impersonation attempts that create urgency or promise support.
Frequently asked questions
Where should I begin on Ledger.com start?
Start with the setup instructions for your exact device, then download Ledger Live directly from Ledger’s official website and follow the checks shown on your device.
Is Ledger Live required to use a Ledger wallet?
Ledger Live is the companion app for many common account tasks. Some compatible third-party services may also connect to a Ledger device, but always verify compatibility and approve actions on-device.
What should I do with my recovery phrase?
Write it down offline and keep it private in a secure location. Never share it, enter it into a computer or phone, or store it in a screenshot or cloud document.
Does Ledger Live Login give access to my wallet?
Service sign-ins are separate from your device PIN and recovery phrase. Your private keys remain protected by your device; never disclose your recovery phrase to sign in.
How do I know a Ledger Live download is genuine?
Navigate to Ledger’s official website yourself and download the app from its supported downloads page. Avoid links in unsolicited emails, ads, and direct messages.
Can I use a Ledger Wallet Extension?
Some web applications support connecting a Ledger device. Use only integrations you can verify through official resources, and confirm all transaction details on your device before approving.