Quick introduction — why this hub matters
Welcome to the Ledger Getting Started Hub. This single-page companion condenses the interactive setup flow and essential security advice you’ll find on ledger.com/start. Whether you just unboxed your Ledger device or are migrating from another wallet, this guide will walk you through each important step — from opening the package to installing Ledger Live, creating or recovering your recovery phrase, applying firmware updates, and choosing privacy-conscious settings. Below you’ll find practical instructions, a ten-link quick reference to the official pages, troubleshooting tips, and a security checklist to keep your crypto safe.
Unboxing and authenticity checks
Before connecting your device, inspect the packaging for signs of tampering. Ledger devices should be sealed and include official documentation. If anything looks suspicious, do not proceed — contact Ledger Support immediately via the official support page. Purchasing from the official shop (ledger.com/shop) is the best way to avoid counterfeit devices.
Install Ledger Live — the official companion app
Ledger Live provides the streamlined onboarding experience and is the recommended way to manage firmware, install currency apps on your device, and create accounts. Download Ledger Live from the official page (ledger.com/ledger-live) and follow the installer instructions. After installation, Ledger Live guides you through selecting your device model, initializing or recovering your wallet, and installing apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) that enable individual coin support.
Initialize vs recover — decisions that matter
During setup Ledger Live will ask whether to set up as a new device or restore an existing wallet from a recovery phrase. If you choose to initialize, the device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase and display it on-device; write it down in the exact order given and store it offline. If you choose to recover, use the device’s input method to enter the words securely. Never type or photograph your recovery phrase or store it on a phone or computer.
Firmware and app management
Ledger firmware is signed and Ledger Live manages safe firmware updates. When prompted by Ledger Live, follow the official update flow to install signed firmware only. Do not install unofficial firmware — firmware integrity is essential to device security. Use Ledger Live to install and manage coin-specific apps on the device; each app enables the device to work with a particular blockchain or token.
Ten official links — quick reference
- Start — ledger.com/start
- Ledger Live — ledger.com/ledger-live
- Official Shop — ledger.com/shop
- Support — ledger.com/support
- Security — ledger.com/security
- Learn — ledger.com/learn
- Compatibility — ledger.com/compatibility
- Blog — ledger.com/blog
- GitHub — github.com/LedgerHQ
- Legal & Policies — ledger.com/legal
Protecting your recovery phrase — concrete tips
Your 24-word recovery phrase is the master key to your funds. Store it offline in at least two geographically-separated secure locations. Use a metal backup if you need resistance to fire, water, and decay. Never share your recovery phrase — Ledger will never ask for it. Be wary of scams that ask you to reveal seed words in exchange for support or upgrades.
Connecting Ledger with third-party wallets
Ledger is compatible with many well-known third-party wallets (e.g., MetaMask, Electrum, MyEtherWallet). When connecting, always follow official guidance: install required apps via Ledger Live first, only connect through trusted sites, and verify addresses on your device screen before approving any outgoing transaction.
Privacy, backends, and advanced configurations
Ledger Live may query Ledger’s or third-party nodes to display balances and transaction history. If you prioritize privacy, consider running a personal node and configuring Ledger Live or compatible wallets to use it, or use privacy-preserving services. Consult the Learn and Compatibility pages for advanced setup instructions.
Troubleshooting common issues
If Ledger Live fails to detect your device: ensure the device is unlocked, use an official cable, try another USB port, and confirm Ledger Live is up to date. For Bluetooth issues with mobile devices (Nano X), check pairing status and OS Bluetooth permissions. Persistent problems are best handled via the official support center where step-by-step diagnostics are available.
Security checklist — a one-page cheat sheet
Ledger’s hardware wallets provide a strong security model, but safety depends on following setup and backup best practices. Use the official Start page for interactive setup, consult Support for platform-specific help, and return to this hub as a quick reference to the most important official resources.