Ledger.com/Start® | Ledger Getting Started Hub
Welcome to Your Ledger Journey
Congratulations — by choosing a Ledger hardware wallet you’re taking control of your crypto security and self‑custody. This guide is designed to walk you through the entire process: from unboxing your device, through setup, to using it with confidence. Whether you’re brand‑new to hardware wallets or simply transitioning from another solution, following these steps will help you get started safely and effectively.
1. Unboxing & Initial Inspection
When your Ledger device arrives, take a moment to inspect it carefully. Confirm that the packaging is intact, the seal is untampered with, and nothing appears pre‑configured. In particular:
Verify the device shows no signs of prior use or that the recovery booklet is pre‑filled.
Ensure you have the expected components: device unit, USB cable (or other connector depending on model), recovery phrase sheets, and printed instructions.
For any physical oddities—missing items, damage, or pre‑written recovery sheets—pause immediately and reach out to support.
Getting this first step right ensures the device is truly secure and untouched. A hardware wallet only works when set up fresh by the rightful owner.
2. Downloading & Installing the Companion App
Once your device is verified, you’re ready to install the companion software, sometimes called the “manager” or “wallet” app.
Navigate directly to the official site (ledger.com/start) rather than using random search results.
Choose the version of the app appropriate for your platform: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS or Android.
Download, install, and run the app.
During its first launch you may be prompted to allow permissions, update firmware, or connect your hardware device.
This app serves as your interface to manage your accounts, install cryptocurrency support, sync balances, and initiate transactions. Having it installed ahead of time streamlines the next steps.
3. Setting Up the Device
With the app installed and ready, connect your Ledger hardware wallet to your host device via the supplied cable (or, for Bluetooth models, establish the connection). Then follow the on‑device prompts:
a) Choose a PIN
You’ll be asked to pick a PIN code to unlock your device each time you use it. Choose something memorable to you, but not easily guessable (avoid birthdays, sequences, or obvious patterns). If the PIN is entered incorrectly too often, the device may reset to protect you—that’s why it’s critical you remember it.
b) Generate Your Recovery Phrase
This is perhaps the most important step in the entire setup. The device will generate a sequence of 24 words (or in some models a shorter phrase) which constitute your “seed” or recovery phrase. Write these words down exactly in the correct order, on the physical sheets provided.
Number each word and double‑check spelling.
Do not capture them digitally (no photos, no screenshots, no cloud storage).
Store the written sheet in a secure, offline location—ideally in a fire‑ and water‑proof container.
Never share this phrase with anyone, under any circumstances.
These words allow you to restore your crypto holdings should your device be lost, damaged or stolen. Think of the device as a key‑holding tool; the phrase is the master backup.
c) Confirm Setup & Update Firmware
Once your device is initialized, the companion app may prompt you to update firmware. Always perform this update when prompted—firmware updates include security patches and new features. The app should also perform a “genuine check” verifying the hardware is authentic and unmodified.
4. Installing Cryptocurrency Apps & Adding Accounts
Now that your device is set up and connected, you’re ready to activate support for individual cryptocurrencies.
In the Ledger app, go to the “Manager” or application installation section.
Browse the list of supported cryptocurrencies and install the corresponding app(s) on your device (for example: Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana).
Once installed, return to the “Accounts” section in the app software and select “Add account”. Choose the cryptocurrency you installed and allow it to sync.
Your device may display a new receiving address — verify that the address shown on your device screen matches the address shown in the software. This is critical to avoid malware‑type address manipulation.
By doing this you’re enabling each coin or token you want to hold within the hardware wallet ecosystem. Think of each “account” as an independent place for receiving and sending that specific crypto.
5. Receiving and Sending Funds
With accounts set up, you’re ready to start using your wallet to receive and send digital assets.
Receiving Crypto
In the companion app, select “Receive” and choose the account (for example: Bitcoin).
The screen will display a receiving address. At the same time, your hardware device will show the same address.
Confirm that the two match exactly, then you can safely share the address or scan the QR code with the sending party.
Sending Crypto
Select “Send” in the app, choose the account and enter the recipient address and amount.
Before confirming the transaction, the hardware device will again display the address, amount and fee. You must verify that what you see on the device matches what you expect.
Only once you physically approve by pressing the device buttons does the transaction proceed.
This two‑step verification — in software and on device screen — guards against hidden malware or software tampering. Always take the moment to confirm.
6. Securing Your Recovery Phrase and Pins – Best Practices
Security is the foundation of a hardware wallet’s benefit. Here are best practices to follow:
Never enter your recovery phrase into any website, email, or computer. If any service asks for it, it’s a scam.
Do not store your recovery phrase on your phone, computer, or cloud service. These can be hacked or fail.
Consider creating multiple physical backups (e.g., in two geographically separated, secure vaults).
If you suspect your device has been compromised (lost, damaged, or you notice odd behavior), move your funds by restoring to a new device using your recovery phrase.
Regularly verify app updates and firmware updates via the official website.
Disconnect your hardware wallet when not in active use, and store it in a safe place.
By following these practices, you minimize risk and ensure your wallet remains a strong fortress for your digital assets.
7. Routine Use and Maintenance
Even after the initial setup, some ongoing habits will help keep your hardware wallet functioning smoothly:
Update Firmware and Apps Regularly: New updates often include security improvements, more coins supported, or performance tweaks.
Install or Remove Apps as Needed: If you hold many tokens, it’s fine to uninstall less‑used crypto apps from the device — your accounts remain intact and funds unaffected. Uninstallation simply frees space.
Keep Device Offline When Idle: Your funds are secure on the blockchain. Connect your device only when necessary to send, receive, or manage.
Monitor for Phishing and Spoofs: Always type ledger.com/start directly when downloading software. Avoid clicking links in emails or messages claiming to be Ledger support.
Test Small Transfers First: When receiving from a new exchange or sending to a new address, use a small test amount first. Verify everything is correct before moving larger amounts.
With these habits, you’ll be in a strong position to use your hardware wallet confidently long‑term.
8. What to Do if Your Device is Lost, Stolen or Fails
While hardware wallets are very reliable, accidents happen. The good news: your crypto is not tied to the device itself, but to your recovery phrase. Here’s what you should do:
Acquire a new Ledger device (or a compatible hardware wallet).
Use the “Restore from recovery phrase” option during the setup process.
Enter your 24‑word seed exactly as originally written (in the correct order).
Add your cryptocurrency accounts, install the needed apps, sync via the companion app, and you will regain access to your funds.
If you suspect the lost device is compromised, you may want to immediately move your funds to new addresses after recovering them on the new hardware.
This emphasizes the importance of your recovery phrase — secure it well, and you mitigate many risk scenarios.
9. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use my ledger without installing the companion app?
A: For most users, the app is integral to the experience: it allows account management, installing apps, and signing transactions. While some advanced users may interface directly via third‑party software, the official companion app ensures optimal security and support.
Q: What if I forget my PIN?
A: After several incorrect PIN attempts the device will reset to factory settings. You can then restore your wallet using your recovery phrase. That’s why both the PIN and recovery phrase are critical.
Q: What happens if the device gets damaged?
A: Secure your recovery phrase first—your funds are safe on the blockchain. Then restore to another compatible device as described above. The damaged device cannot access funds independently.
Q: How many cryptocurrencies can I hold on my Ledger?
A: The number depends on the model (storage capacity) and which crypto apps are installed. You can uninstall apps you’re not actively using without losing access to funds; reinstalling will allow you to access those assets again.
Q: Can someone remotely hack my device?
A: Because your private keys are stored offline on the hardware device, remote hacking is extremely difficult. The primary vulnerabilities are physical theft, PIN compromise, or exposure of your recovery phrase.
10. Final Thoughts
You have now laid the foundation for secure, self‑custodied crypto ownership. The transition from a custodial platform (where someone else holds your keys) to holding your own keys is a meaningful step. A few reminders as you move ahead:
Your device + your recovery phrase are your keys to crypto access.
Always use official channels (ledger.com/start) and avoid shortcuts or third‑party links.
Write down and protect your recovery phrase physically — your access is only as safe as that backup.
Use the companion app and your hardware wallet together: one for convenience, the other for trust.
Make routine checks, install updates, and stay vigilant against phishing.
By following this flow, you empower yourself to manage digital assets securely. Your hardware wallet is your cornerstone of digital asset ownership. Keep it safe, keep it updated, and move confidently into your crypto journey.
