YOUR FIRST STEPS, MADE SIMPLE

Welcome to a more
self-custodial life.

Your Ledger device puts you in control of your digital assets. Get started with a few thoughtful steps—and build good security habits from day one.

Set up your device A helpful guide for new Ledger users · About 10 minutes
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LEDGER
01 / YOUR JOURNEYBEGINS HERE
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THE ESSENTIALS

Start with confidence.

Take your time with each step. The most important setup details happen on your Ledger device—not on a screen or in a message from someone else.

01

Unbox and inspect

Check that your Ledger device and accessories are intact. Buy only from Ledger.com or an authorized retailer, and never use a device that arrives with a recovery phrase already written down.

02

Install Ledger Wallet

Download Ledger Wallet (formerly Ledger Live) from the official Ledger website on your computer or phone. Verify the publisher before installing, then open the app and choose the option to set up a new device.

03

Set a PIN

Connect your device and follow the instructions on its screen. Choose a PIN that is difficult to guess and keep it private. The buttons on your Ledger device are used to confirm actions, so review each prompt directly on the device.

04

Write down your recovery phrase

Your device will generate a unique recovery phrase. Write every word in order on the recovery sheets and store them offline in a secure, private place. Never photograph, type, share, or enter the phrase into a website or app.

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Remember: Ledger will never ask you to share your 24-word recovery phrase. Anyone who has it can access your assets.

SECURITY IS A PRACTICE

Your keys.
Your rules.

Self-custody gives you greater control—and makes you responsible for keeping your recovery phrase safe. Keep these principles close as you explore.

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Keep it offline

Store your recovery phrase on paper or a suitable physical backup. Keep it somewhere private, secure, and protected from damage. Do not save it in cloud storage, email, or a password manager.

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Trust the device screen

Before approving a transaction, check the address and details on your Ledger screen. Your computer or phone can be compromised; your device is the trusted place to verify what you sign.

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Pause before you click

Watch for urgent messages, fake support accounts, and lookalike websites. Ledger support will never request your recovery phrase. When unsure, navigate to the official website yourself.

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WHEN YOU'RE READY

Make it yours.

Once setup is complete, explore Ledger Wallet to see supported assets, add accounts, and connect to services when you choose. Start small, learn how transactions work, and verify fees and network details before confirming anything. Features can vary by asset, device, and region.

Explore Ledger Wallet

A FEW QUICK ANSWERS

Good to know.

What exactly does my Ledger device do?+

It securely stores your private keys and lets you approve transactions. Your crypto assets remain on their respective blockchain networks; the device protects the keys that control access to them.

What if I lose or damage my device?+

You can restore access with your recovery phrase on a compatible wallet. That phrase is the backup to your wallet, so protect it as carefully as the assets it controls. Never share it with anyone.

Where can I get official help?+

Use the support resources linked from Ledger.com. Be cautious of unsolicited direct messages and search ads. Never reveal your PIN or recovery phrase to a support agent—or anyone else.

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YOU'RE READY WHEN YOU ARE

Take control.
One step at a time.

Return to Ledger's official getting-started experience whenever you need guided setup resources.

Go to Ledger.com/Start