Start Securing Crypto with Ledger

Why start with Ledger.com/Start?

If you own cryptocurrency, protecting access to your private keys is the primary responsibility you have. Ledger hardware wallets store your private keys in a secure, tamper-resistant chip while Ledger Live — the official companion app — lets you manage accounts, sign transactions and keep firmware up to date. Ledger.com/Start is the official hub with downloads, step-by-step setup instructions, and essential security guidance. Starting from the official site keeps you safe from modified installers, malicious mirrors and phishing pages.

This guide expands on the official flow: unbox, verify, connect, configure, back up, and operate your wallet safely. Each section includes practical tips and links to relevant Ledger resources so you can complete the whole process with confidence.

Quick setup overview

1 — Official download: Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger site. Ledger Live.

2 — Unbox & verify: Inspect packaging for tamper evidence; buy from Ledger or authorized resellers only. See Ledger.com/Start.

3 — Connect & initialize: Plug in the device, follow Ledger Live prompts, choose new device or restore existing recovery phrase.

4 — Secure backup: Write your recovery phrase on paper or a metal backup and store offline — never photograph or digitize it.

5 — Install apps & add accounts: Use Ledger Live Manager to install blockchain apps and add accounts for the coins you hold.

6 — Confirm & transact: Always confirm addresses and transaction details on the physical device screen before approving.

Detailed setup: step-by-step

Follow these detailed steps to set up your Ledger device safely. If you prefer, complete everything by following the official flow at Ledger.com/Start.

Step A — Download Ledger Live: Use the official download page to get Ledger Live for desktop or mobile. Verifying checksums is recommended for desktop installers. Download Ledger Live.

Step B — Connect the device: Use the supplied cable. On first connection Ledger Live will guide you to initialize the device. Choose “Set up as new device” unless you're restoring.

Step C — Choose a PIN: The device will ask you to create a PIN. Use a PIN you can remember but that isn't trivial. This protects the physical device in case of theft.

Step D — Write down the recovery phrase: The device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. Write it down exactly and verify the words when prompted. Store this offline and in a secure place; it is the only backup for your funds. See official recovery guidance: Recovery guide.

Step E — Install apps & add accounts: Open Ledger Live, go to Manager, install the apps for the blockchains you use (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) then add accounts so Ledger Live can track balances. For supported assets reference: Supported cryptocurrencies.

Step F — Verify a small transaction: Before sending large amounts, test with a small transfer to confirm everything is working and you understand the flow.

Security best practices

Security is layered: device, firmware, companion app, and human practices. Follow these principles to reduce risk.

Only download Ledger Live from the official page. Ledger Live.
Never enter your recovery phrase into a computer, phone, or website.
Keep firmware updated through Ledger Live's official prompts. Firmware updates.
Confirm recipient addresses on the device screen — not just in the app.
Use hardware-backed backups (metal seed storage) for long-term protection.
Be cautious with third-party integrations; only connect trusted dApps and verify instructions against Ledger documentation and the blog. Ledger Blog.

Sending & receiving — practical tips

When receiving funds, always generate the receiving address inside Ledger Live and confirm it on-device before sharing it with the sender. For sending, prepare the transaction in Ledger Live and confirm the destination and amount on the hardware device. Malware on a computer can alter on-screen values — the device display is your single source of truth.

For more transaction safety information see Ledger’s transaction recommendations: Transaction guide.

Maintenance, recovery & support

Keep Ledger Live and your device firmware updated. Ledger Live will notify you of official firmware updates; follow prompts within the app. If you have an issue — for example the device is not recognized, or you suspect compromise — consult Ledger Support and the Knowledge Base rather than random forums to avoid misleading advice. Ledger Support and the FAQ are the right places to start.

Practicing a recovery on a spare device helps validate your backup and ensures you know the process if you ever need it. Treat this as planned maintenance for your digital wealth.

Mobile use & advanced integrations

Ledger Live is available for mobile so you can check balances and accept transactions on the go. Pair devices via the supported methods (USB or Bluetooth for supported models). When using DeFi, staking, or third-party wallets, prefer the Ledger-confirmed flows and validate any permissions requested by dApps. Official mobile downloads & details: Ledger Live Mobile.

Start now — visit Ledger.com/Start

Securing your crypto begins with the right tools and the right habits. Visit Ledger.com/Start to download Ledger Live and follow the official setup flow. When in doubt, consult Ledger’s support and documentation rather than an unverified source.

By following the steps above — downloading only from official pages, safeguarding your recovery phrase, confirming transactions on-device, and keeping firmware up to date — you significantly reduce the risk of loss and make your holdings far more resilient.