Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® — Getting started with handling

Introduction

This short guide covers the essentials: unpacking your Ledger device, initializing it, installing Ledger Live, backing up your recovery phrase, and tips for secure handling. Use this as a checkpoint while you follow the step-by-step instructions on the official pages linked in the sidebar.

Before you start

What you’ll need: a Ledger hardware device (Nano S, Nano S Plus, Nano X), the USB cable or Bluetooth for Nano X, a computer or mobile phone, and a secure, private place to write and store your recovery phrase.

Quick start checklist

1. Unbox your Ledger and inspect the tamper-evident packaging.
2. Visit Ledger.com/Start and download Ledger Live for your OS.
3. Initialize the device and create a new PIN.
4. Write your recovery phrase on the official recovery card and store it offline.
5. Install apps inside Ledger Live and add accounts.

Step 1 — Unbox & verify

Confirm the packaging is sealed. If anything looks suspicious, contact Ledger support before proceeding. Always start at the official Ledger start page to avoid phishing sites.

Step 2 — Install Ledger Live

Download Ledger Live from the official site and follow the installer. Ledger Live will guide you through device setup, app installations, and account creation.

Step 3 — Initialize device & backup

Set up a PIN you can remember but others cannot guess. The device will display a recovery phrase — write it down in order and never store it digitally. This recovery phrase is the single most important secret; anyone with it can access your crypto.

Security tips

- Never share your recovery phrase. - Avoid entering the phrase on a computer or phone. - Use the official Ledger recovery card, not random paper.

Using Ledger Live

Ledger Live lets you manage multiple accounts, install device apps, and check real-time balances. For sending and receiving, verify every transaction on your hardware device before approving.