Ledger — Start

Secure your crypto with hardware-level protection

Ledger.com/start — Quick overview & setup

Everything you need to know before you plug in your Ledger device: what it protects, how setup works, and safety best practices to keep your assets secure.

Start Setup FAQs

Hardware Security

Private keys stay inside the device — not on your computer or phone.

Open Source

Ledger's firmware and tools are transparent and regularly audited.

Wide Compatibility

Supports 2000+ coins and tokens through the Ledger Live app.

Step-by-step: from unboxing to secure

1

Unbox & Inspect

Check the device packaging and seal. Ledger devices ship with tamper-evident packaging — if it looks opened, contact support.

2

Install Ledger Live

Download Ledger Live from the official site and follow the installer prompts. You can use it on macOS, Windows, Linux, Android, and iOS.

3

Initialize Device

Create a new wallet on the device and write down your recovery phrase on the provided card. Never store the recovery phrase digitally.

4

Add Accounts in Ledger Live

Use Ledger Live to add coin accounts and install apps to your device as needed.

5

Receive & Verify

Always verify addresses on the device screen before sending funds to ensure they match what your software shows.

Best practices

  • Never share the 24-word recovery phrase with anyone.
  • Only download Ledger Live and firmware updates from ledger.com.
  • Consider a fireproof/waterproof safe for your recovery card.
  • Keep device firmware up to date via Ledger Live.