A clear guide to your first steps

Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started™ | Ledger®®®

Set up your Ledger hardware wallet with care, connect to Ledger Live, and learn the security basics that help keep your digital assets in your control.

Getting started with your Ledger wallet

A Ledger wallet pairs a hardware device with software so you can manage supported crypto assets while keeping your private keys protected by the device. Start by checking that your Ledger hardware wallet is new, intact, and sourced from an authorized retailer. Follow the instructions included with your device, and use the official Ledger website to find current guides and downloads. Never use a setup link sent unexpectedly by email, direct message, or an online advertisement.

During Ledger wallet Setup, your device will guide you through creating a PIN and a recovery phrase. Write the recovery phrase on the supplied recovery sheet and keep it offline in a secure place. It is the backup to your wallet: anyone who obtains it may be able to access your assets. Ledger Support will never need you to type or share the phrase online. Do not photograph it, store it in cloud notes, or enter it into a website, app, browser extension, or computer prompt.

Install Ledger Live from an official source

Ledger Live is the companion application used to check accounts, manage assets, and install apps on a Ledger device. For a Ledger Live App Download, visit the official Ledger Live download page and choose the version for your operating system. The same official destination provides Ledger Live Desktop information; follow its current instructions rather than downloading installers from file-sharing sites or third-party app catalogs.

After installation, open Ledger Live and follow its on-screen connection and genuine-device checks. You do not need to create a Ledger Live Login by revealing your recovery phrase. A request for that phrase is a serious warning sign. Keep the application updated through its own trusted update process, and confirm the address on your hardware device before approving a transaction.

Connect, review, and manage your wallet

Connect your device using the cable or supported wireless method described in the official guide, unlock it with your PIN, and approve only actions you understand. Ledger Live can help you add accounts and view balances, while the device confirms sensitive operations. Take time to check network, recipient, and amount details on the device screen before signing. A displayed balance is information; sending or swapping assets still requires careful review of the transaction details.

Searches for Ledger Wallet Extension may lead to unofficial browser add-ons. Do not install an extension or connect a wallet because a pop-up tells you to do so. Use official Ledger documentation to verify whether a particular integration is supported and necessary. Keep your computer and phone protected with current software, use a unique device PIN, and treat urgent messages promising support or recovery as suspicious.

Security basics to keep in mind

Ledger.com start guidance should always lead you to resources you can verify directly on Ledger’s official domain. Bookmark the official download and support pages, check web addresses carefully, and avoid sponsored search results when you are unsure. Never disclose your recovery phrase or PIN to another person. If a device, app, or message asks for the phrase, stop and independently navigate to the official support site. These habits help you approach your first setup with confidence without rushing through decisions.

Important: This page is informational and does not collect wallet credentials or recovery phrases. Never enter sensitive wallet secrets into a webpage or share them with anyone.

Frequently asked questions

Where should I download Ledger Live?

Use the download links on Ledger’s official Ledger Live page. Verify the site address before downloading and avoid unofficial mirrors.

Is a Ledger Live Login required to set up my device?

Follow the current official setup flow in Ledger Live. Never provide your recovery phrase as a login, verification step, or support requirement.

What should I do with my recovery phrase?

Write it down offline, keep it private, and store it somewhere secure. Anyone with the phrase may be able to control the associated assets.

Can I use Ledger Live Desktop?

Ledger Live offers desktop information and downloads through its official site. Select your operating system there and follow the published device instructions.

Should I install a Ledger Wallet Extension?

Only install browser software after confirming its purpose and legitimacy using official documentation. Do not trust unsolicited extension prompts or links.

What if a setup page asks for my recovery phrase?

Stop immediately. Do not enter or share it. Close the page and navigate independently to Ledger’s official support resources for guidance.