Start: Set up your Ledger hardware wallet

A concise, secure walkthrough to unbox, initialize, and connect your Ledger device with Ledger Live so you can manage crypto safely.

Quick overview

This guide walks you through the essential first steps: powering on your device, creating a PIN, saving your recovery phrase, installing Ledger Live, and adding accounts. Follow each step carefully — the recovery phrase is the single key to restoring access if your device is lost or damaged.

1

Unbox and connect

Open the package and connect your Ledger to a computer or mobile device using the supplied cable. Power on and follow the on-device prompts.

2

Create a PIN

Choose a PIN you can remember but others cannot guess. Enter it on the device; this PIN guards access to the hardware wallet itself.

3

Write down your recovery phrase

Your device will display a recovery phrase (commonly 24 words). Write those words down, in order, on the supplied recovery sheet — never store the phrase digitally or share it. This phrase is the last-resort method to restore accounts on a replacement device.

4

Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the app used to add accounts to your device, monitor balances, and perform transactions. Download the official Ledger Live for desktop or mobile, then follow the app's setup flow to pair your device and add assets.

5

Add accounts & verify

Use Ledger Live to add cryptocurrency accounts. For any receive or send action, confirm addresses both in Ledger Live and on the physical device before approving a transaction.

6

Keep software updated

Periodically check Ledger Live for firmware updates and follow official instructions to update. Updates may include security improvements and new coin support.

Download Ledger Live

Security essentials

Treat your recovery phrase like cash. Never enter it into websites, apps, or messages. Ledger devices keep private keys offline — your device plus the recovery phrase is what protects your assets. If you suspect compromise, move funds immediately to a new device with a new recovery phrase.

Can I restore my wallet on another device?
Yes — a valid recovery phrase will restore access on any compatible hardware wallet that supports the same seed format.
What happens if I lose my device?
Use your recovery phrase to restore your accounts to another device. If the phrase is lost, funds cannot be recovered.