Welcome to Ledger — Start in minutes, protect for years

This page walks you through Ledger’s recommended first steps: secure setup, wallet choices, and smart habits to keep your crypto safe. Read the short checklist and follow each step carefully.

Go to ledger.com/start

Why use Ledger?

Ledger devices isolate your private keys from the internet so you stay in control of your crypto. Hardware wallets like Ledger make it much harder for attackers to steal assets because sensitive operations happen on the device itself, not on your computer or phone.

Whether you’re buying, holding, or staking, a simple, secure setup today can protect you for years.

Quick start — 7 essential steps

  1. Buy or confirm your device: Use only official channels to purchase. Check authenticity and seal before opening.
  2. Visit ledger.com/start: Follow the official setup flow — do not follow links sent by strangers.
  3. Create a new wallet on the device: Generate a fresh seed phrase on the Ledger hardware itself — never enter it on a website or app.
  4. Write down the recovery phrase: Use the supplied recovery card or a secure notebook. Store it offline and in a safe location.
  5. Install Ledger Live and apps: Download Ledger Live from the official site, install only the apps you need for the blockchains you use.
  6. Verify and test: Send a small test amount before moving larger balances.
  7. Keep everything updated: Apply firmware and Ledger Live updates from official sources only.
Pro tip: Use a separate PIN from other devices and never share your recovery phrase. Ledger will never ask you for your 24-word recovery phrase.

What to do next — features & choices

Ledger supports hundreds of coins and tokens. Through Ledger Live you can:

  • Manage multiple accounts and chains from a single place.
  • Install specific blockchain apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.).
  • Connect with third-party services safely (swaps, staking, dapps) while keeping keys offline.

Pick only the networks you use regularly — fewer apps means a smaller attack surface on your device.

Security checklist

Security is a habit. These actions dramatically reduce risk:

  • Buy hardware only from official ledger.com or authorized resellers.
  • Never enter your recovery phrase online, into email, or into a chat.
  • Store your recovery phrase physically in two separate secure locations if possible.
  • Enable device passphrase (advanced users) to add an extra logical layer to your seed.
  • Keep a small test balance when experimenting with new dapps or integrations.

Short FAQ

Q: Can I restore a Ledger seed on another wallet?
A: Yes — the recovery phrase follows a standard format. Restoring should be done carefully and only when necessary.

Q: What if I lose my Ledger device?
A: Your funds are recoverable with your recovery phrase on a compatible wallet. That’s why safekeeping the phrase is critical.