This single‑page, educational guide walks you through starting at Ledger.com/Start®: downloading the official Ledger Live app, initializing or restoring your Ledger device, logging in securely, and protecting your recovery phrase. It’s written in an official‑style tone but is independent and informational—always follow instructions on your device screen and double‑check the exact URL before pr
Use the official desktop app for updates and secure operations. Avoid search‑ad traps and third‑party mirrors; prefer a trusted bookmark or typed URL.
Check for tampering, damage, or missing documentation. Only buy from the official store or authorized resellers. If anything seems off, pause setup and contact support. Integrity at delivery is the foundation of trust in any hardware wallet.
Choose a machine you control, updated with the latest OS patches and a modern browser. Avoid public Wi‑Fi. Consider a separate local user account just for wallet activities to reduce the attack surface and cross‑app interference.
Have your recovery sheets or a metal backup ready. Decide where you will store the phrase—ideally two secure, geographically separate locations. Never photograph or type the phrase; what never touches a camera or keyboard can’t leak online.
Your 12/18/24‑word phrase controls your funds. Store it offline in secure locations; consider a metal backup for fire and water resistance. Anyone with the phrase can spend your coins.
Always verify addresses and transaction details on the device screen. If there is any mismatch, cancel and investigate before proceeding.
Apply Ledger Live and firmware updates via official channels. Updates include security fixes and compatibility improvements; don’t postpone them indefinitely.
Separate accounts for spending, savings, and testing. This reduces blast radius if you make a mistake or expose an address.
No legit support agent or website will ask for your recovery phrase or tell you to “synchronize” by typing it on a computer. Those are scams; close the page and return via your bookmark.
Keep the device locked and out of sight when not in use. Enable auto‑lock. Don’t leave it unattended in shared spaces.
Review Ledger Live’s settings for analytics and diagnostic sharing. On your OS, restrict screen recording and accessibility permissions to only what’s necessary.
Public blockchains are transparent. Reusing addresses links your activity. Generate fresh receiving addresses where possible and avoid posting addresses publicly.
Restart the app and your computer. Check firewall/antivirus prompts. If syncing stalls, clear the cache in settings, switch networks temporarily, then resync.
Do not unplug unless instructed. Reopen Ledger Live; the device typically resumes or offers recovery steps. Ensure a stable cable and power source.
After too many failed attempts, the device wipes by design. Restore using the recovery phrase on the device. This is why offline backups are essential.
Your funds live on the blockchain, controlled by your recovery phrase. Replace the device, restore on‑device, then re‑add accounts in Ledger Live.
If the address on the device doesn’t match the computer, cancel immediately, update Ledger Live, scan for malware, and verify again.
Adding a passphrase creates hidden accounts derived from your phrase. This can increase privacy and security, but forgetting the passphrase results in permanent loss. Only use if you can manage it safely.
Some users dedicate one device to long‑term storage and another to daily spending or testing. Keep backups separate and label devices clearly to avoid operational mistakes.
Adopt a checklist: confirm recipient, network, amount, and address on the device; perform a small test send with new counterparties; wait for confirmations before treating funds as final.
Ledger Live is the recommended companion for updates, account management, and transactions. Some trusted third‑party wallets can connect to Ledger devices, but always evaluate risks and verify the software’s authenticity.
Yes. Your private keys never leave the device. Install Ledger Live on each trusted computer and always verify addresses on the device before approving actions.
Treat exposure as total compromise. Immediately move funds to a new wallet created on a secure device with a fresh phrase. Do not delay.
Desktop offers a more controlled environment and complete feature set. Mobile is convenient for viewing and light interactions; be cautious on untrusted networks.