Overview

What this guide covers

This document explains the official, secure flow to set up and activate Ledger devices using Ledger.com/start and Ledger Live. It focuses on correct onboarding steps, how to protect the Secret Recovery Phrase, firmware and software precautions, and practical do's and don'ts for day-to-day safe use.

Before you start

Checklist (what to have on hand)

  • Your unopened Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, etc.).
  • A computer or mobile phone to download Ledger Live.
  • A pen and the recovery sheet or a metal backup (recommended).
  • Stable internet connection. Avoid public Wi-Fi during setup.
Security tip

Only use official Ledger pages and downloads. Never install Ledger Live from an email link — always go to Ledger.com/start or the official Ledger site.

Step-by-step setup (official flow)

1. Verify the device box & contents

Only accept a Ledger device from an authorized seller. Make sure the packaging is sealed and the included sheet and cable are present. If the packaging looks tampered with, return the device to the seller and contact Ledger support.

2. Visit Ledger.com/start and download Ledger Live

Open a browser and navigate to https://www.ledger.com/start. Download Ledger Live for your OS (desktop or mobile). Ledger Live contains built-in setup guidance for each Ledger model and is the official companion app to manage accounts and firmware.

3. Connect device & follow on-screen prompts

  1. Plug the Ledger device into your computer or pair via Bluetooth (Nano X only) following the Ledger Live prompts.
  2. When the device turns on, choose to Set up as new device unless you are restoring.
  3. Create a secure PIN on the device (do not reuse easily guessable PINs).

4. Securely write down the recovery phrase

Your device will generate a 24-word Secret Recovery Phrase. Write it down exactly in order on the provided recovery sheet or on a secure metal backup. Do not take photos or store the phrase digitally. This phrase is the single backup to restore access — protect it as you would physical cash.

Security features & best practices

Firmware & Ledger Live updates

Keep both device firmware and Ledger Live up to date. Ledger Live will notify you of firmware updates — only accept firmware updates when initiated from Ledger Live and verified on the device screen.

Never share your 24 words

Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase. Do not enter your recovery phrase into websites, apps, or share it with anyone — including alleged support staff. Treat your recovery phrase as the keys to your funds.

Verify addresses on-device

Always verify receiving addresses on your Ledger device screen before approving a transaction in Ledger Live. This prevents malware on your computer from modifying addresses.

Passphrase (advanced)

Ledger supports an optional passphrase that adds an extra secret word to create hidden accounts. Only use passphrases if you understand the risks — losing the passphrase means losing access to the funds in that hidden account.

Backups & recovery options

Standard recovery: 24-word Secret Recovery Phrase

Store the 24 words on paper and, ideally, on a fireproof metal backup. Keep copies in separate secure locations (e.g., home safe, safety deposit box). Avoid digital copies (photos, cloud storage, email).

Ledger Recover (optional)

Ledger offers optional backup services such as Ledger Recover (region availability varies). Understand the service, costs, and privacy tradeoffs before enrolling — the traditional recommendation remains to keep your own physical backups.

Common mistakes & how to avoid them

  • Downloading from non-official sites: always use Ledger.com/start to fetch Ledger Live.
  • Entering recovery phrase online: never paste your 24 words into any web page.
  • Using weak PINs: choose a PIN of reasonable length and avoid birthday sequences.
  • Storing backups digitally: avoid pictures or cloud backups for the full recovery phrase.

Troubleshooting & support

If Ledger Live doesn't detect your device

  1. Try a different USB cable or port; prefer the original cable supplied.
  2. Restart Ledger Live and your computer/device.
  3. Check that device screens show expected prompts and authorize connection on the device.

Suspected phishing or fraud

If you receive unsolicited messages claiming to be Ledger support, stop and verify via the official support pages. Ledger support will never ask for your 24-word phrase.

Click any button to open the corresponding official Ledger resource. (These point to Ledger's site and support pages.)

Final recommendations

Summary (quick checklist)

  • Download Ledger Live only from Ledger.com/start or official Ledger pages.
  • Create and memorize a PIN; write the 24 words on paper and store offline.
  • Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated, verify addresses on device, and never share your 24 words.
  • Consider advanced backups (Ledger Recover) only after reading the official docs.
Note: This page is a concise presentation intended to complement the official Ledger documentation. For device-specific instructions and the latest product pages, use the official links above.