Ledger Getting Started Hub — ledger.com/start

A clear, friendly walkthrough that covers setup, safety, and connecting to Web3 — with an interactive animation to illustrate key steps.

Welcome — what this guide covers

In about 1100 words you’ll learn how to unbox and initialize your Ledger device, create a secure PIN, back up your recovery phrase, add accounts in Ledger Live, and connect safely to dApps and DeFi. The animation on the right visualizes the flow of actions — from device → app → dApp.

Step 1 — Unbox & Check
Verify package seals and buy only from official channels: ledger.com/start
Step 2 — Initialize Device
Follow Ledger Live to set a PIN and get your 24-word recovery phrase. Write it down on the card provided — never store it digitally.
Step 3 — Install Apps
Add coin apps in Ledger Live (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) before adding accounts.

1. Before you begin — safety first

Always buy Ledger devices from official sources to avoid tampered units. When you open your device, ensure the seals are intact. Prepare a clean, private workspace. A hardware wallet is an insurance policy for your crypto — treat your recovery phrase like the master key to a safe-deposit box.

2. Step-by-step setup (concise)

  1. Download Ledger Live: Go to ledger.com/start and install the correct version for your OS.
  2. Connect & Power: Plug in your Ledger device and follow Ledger Live prompts.
  3. PIN code: Choose a 4–8 digit PIN. Memorize it — if you forget it, you’ll need the recovery phrase to restore the device.
  4. Write your recovery phrase: Ledger will show 24 words — write them in order on the supplied card. Store the card in a secure, fireproof place; consider a steel backup for long-term storage.
  5. Install coin apps: In Ledger Live, install apps for networks you’ll use (Ethereum, Solana, Bitcoin, etc.).
  6. Add accounts: Use Ledger Live to add accounts. Ledger Live only reads public addresses; private keys never leave the device.

3. Using Ledger with dApps and DeFi

To interact with decentralized apps, connect via WalletConnect or a browser wallet like MetaMask configured to use the Ledger device. Always verify transaction details on your Ledger screen — the device is the single source of truth for approvals.

4. Managing altcoins and mobile workflow

Ledger Live supports many chains directly, but some ecosystems require companion wallets (for example, using a Solana wallet). When using mobile, pair Ledger Live Mobile with your device via Bluetooth (if supported) or use the cable. For transfers to exchanges, ensure addresses are correct by checking the address on-chain explorers and confirming on-device.

5. Backup and recovery strategies

Your 24-word seed is the only reliable backup. Keep multiple offline copies in separate secure locations if the value warrants it. Avoid cloud backups or photos. Consider sharded backups or professional custody solutions for very large holdings.

6. Troubleshooting & maintenance

7. Final security checklist

This guide is an educational companion inspired by the official Ledger Getting Started Hub. For the canonical setup instructions and downloads, always visit ledger.com/start.