Simple step-by-step setup
Unbox & inspect: Verify tamper seals and contents. Only buy from official channels. If packaging seems tampered, contact support and do not use the device. See our unboxing checklist.
Download Ledger Live: Always download the app from the official site: /download. Install the desktop or mobile client and follow on-screen instructions. Ledger Live is the hub for managing accounts, installing coin apps, and performing transactions safely.
Initialize your device: Power on and follow the on-device prompts to create a new wallet. Choose a secure PIN and write down your recovery phrase (24 words) exactly as shown. Never store the seed digitally or share it. Learn more at /setup.
Protect your recovery phrase: Store your seed offline in multiple secure locations. Consider steel backups for fire and water resistance. If you use a passphrase, record it separately and store it as securely as the seed. Backup best practices are on /recovery.
Verify firmware: Confirm firmware authenticity through Ledger Live before using the device. Ledger signs firmware releases; verifying prevents supply-chain attacks. Instructions are at /firmware.
Install apps & add accounts: Use Ledger Live Manager to install only the apps you need. Add accounts and verify receiving addresses on the device screen before sharing. Details on supported coins are at /apps.
Test with small amounts: Send a small test deposit first to ensure your workflow is correct. Always verify addresses on the physical device screen—never trust only the app display. Receiving guide at /receive.
Sending transactions: Build the transaction in Ledger Live; review details on the device screen and approve with the hardware buttons. Confirm gas fees, destination addresses, and token contracts on the device itself. Sending walkthrough at /send.
Advanced features: Use passphrases for hidden wallets or multisig for shared custody, but only after you understand recovery implications. Explore advanced setups at /advanced.
Troubleshooting: If the device is not recognized, try a new cable or USB port and ensure Ledger Live/Bridge are installed. Never reveal your seed to support. For diagnostics, see /support.
Long-term custody: For large holdings, consider cold storage strategies, multi-signature policies, and legal estate planning. Enterprise options and institution guidance are at /enterprise.
Privacy & hygiene: Use fresh receiving addresses, avoid public networks during sensitive operations, and protect companion machines with OS hardening and encrypted disks. Privacy suggestions at /privacy.
Final checklist: buy from an authorized seller, install Ledger Live, create wallet and write seed offline, verify firmware, test with a small deposit, and store backups securely.
If you need help during setup, our support team and knowledge base provide step-by-step articles and live assistance. Start here: Ledger.com/start.