Ledger.com/start — Start Your Crypto Journey

Why Ledger? Why a hardware wallet?

When you own cryptocurrency you own the private keys that control access to those digital assets. Hardware wallets such as Ledger devices provide a proven, simple, and resilient way to store those private keys offline — physically separate from internet-connected devices where hackers, phishing, and malware operate. Ledger's security-first approach gives you a single, portable device that keeps your keys safe while still allowing you to interact with decentralized apps and exchanges when you want to.

What you'll learn on this page

• How to set up your Ledger device step-by-step (no jargon).
• How Ledger protects your keys and what a recovery phrase is.
• Practical tips for buying your first crypto securely.
• How to use Ledger Live — the official app for managing assets.
• Troubleshooting and frequently asked questions beginners ask.

Quick start — the 5-minute checklist

1. Buy an authentic Ledger from an authorized seller only.
2. Unbox, connect to Ledger Live, and initialize the device.
3. Write down your 24-word recovery phrase and store it offline.
4. Install the apps for the coins you want to hold.
5. Receive a small test transaction to confirm the setup.

Detailed setup guide

The detailed setup below walks you through the steps with practical explanations so you understand the 'why' behind each action. If you follow these steps exactly, you’ll end up with a secure hardware wallet and the peace of mind that comes with it.

1. Unboxing and authenticity

Only purchase Ledger devices from the official Ledger website or authorized retailers. When the device arrives, confirm the packaging is sealed and shows the Ledger branding exactly as expected. Ledger devices ship sealed with tamper-evident features; if anything looks off, do not initialize the device — contact Ledger support or the retailer and arrange a return.

2. Initialize your device

Follow the on-screen prompts on your Ledger device and in the Ledger Live app. Choose the option to set up as a new device (unless you are restoring a previously used device). You will be asked to create a PIN — choose a PIN that you will remember but that is not obviously linked to personal data. The PIN keeps the device locked if it’s lost or stolen.

3. Backup: the recovery phrase

This is the single most important step. Your recovery phrase (usually 24 words) is the master key to all the accounts on your Ledger device. Write the words exactly in the provided recovery sheet in the order shown. NEVER store the recovery phrase digitally — not on photos, cloud storage, or note apps. Treat it like a physical bearer instrument: whoever has the phrase can recover your funds. Ledger sells accessories such as stainless steel plates designed for long-term storage — consider those for additional fire and water resistance.

4. Install Ledger Live and coin apps

Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile app for managing accounts and installing supported coin apps onto your device. You can view balances, receive and send transactions, and install specific apps for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of other assets. Importantly, private keys never leave your Ledger device — Ledger Live only displays information and prepares transactions while the device signs them securely offline.

5. Test with a small transaction

Always test receiving funds by sending a small amount of cryptocurrency to your Ledger-managed address. Confirm the address displayed by Ledger Live matches the address shown on your device, then accept the transaction on the hardware device. This ensures the receiving address is genuine and that your Ledger is configured correctly.

Security best practices

• Never share your recovery phrase, even if someone claims to be Ledger support.
• Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase over phone, email, or chat.
• Keep firmware up to date — Ledger periodically releases security and quality updates.
• Use a separate, secure location for long-term storage of your recovery sheet.
• Consider a passphrase (an additional secret phrase) if you need hidden accounts or an extra layer of defense — but be aware it increases complexity and must be backed up.

Using Ledger Live: day-to-day

Ledger Live is intentionally simple for daily use. You can add accounts for each cryptocurrency you hold, see consolidated balances, and install only the apps you need — keeping the device uncluttered. When sending transactions, Ledger Live prepares the transaction and the device displays the destination address and amount for you to verify before signing. This two-step design reduces the chance of malware or screen-tampering attacks on your computer from tricking you into signing a malicious transaction.

Advanced topics

For power users, Ledger supports interoperability with many popular third-party wallets and decentralized applications (dApps). Using a Ledger with a third-party interface gives you flexibility: Ledger acts as the secure signer while the third-party interface provides a feature-rich UX. Popular combinations include using Ledger with MetaMask for Ethereum-based dApps or with Electrum for advanced Bitcoin workflows.

Another advanced option is multisignature (multisig) setups — splitting control across multiple keys and devices. Multisig increases security against single-point failures but has greater complexity in setup and recovery. If you manage significant funds, consult expert guides or professionals experienced in multisig design.

How to buy crypto safely

Once your Ledger is set up, you’ll need to acquire cryptocurrency. Use regulated and reputable exchanges or peer-to-peer services with strong escrow and reputation systems. Always enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on exchange accounts, prefer hardware-based 2FA (like security keys) when available, and withdraw funds to your Ledger for long-term storage rather than leaving them on exchanges. Exchanges can be convenient for trading but historically have been a primary target for hacks.

Receiving and sending funds

To receive funds, open the account in Ledger Live and click Receive. Confirm that the address shown in the app matches the address displayed on your Ledger device’s screen. This step verifies that malware has not altered the address path on your computer. For sending, prepare the transaction in Ledger Live and confirm the destination, amount, and fees on your Ledger device before approving.

Moving beyond basics: managing multiple accounts

Ledger allows you to manage many accounts across different blockchains simultaneously. Best practice is to separate accounts by purpose — one for long-term holdings, one for active trading, and another for interacting with dApps. This mental model limits risk and makes auditing your own activity easier.

Troubleshooting tips

• If Ledger Live can’t detect your device, try a different USB cable or port and ensure the device is unlocked and awake.
• Keep Ledger Live and firmware updated; updates often fix bugs and improve compatibility.
• If you encounter an unexpected prompt asking for your recovery phrase, stop immediately — Ledger never requests it in software or support.

Final words — ownership and responsibility

With Ledger and a hardware wallet, you get true ownership of your crypto: only you control the keys. That control brings responsibility — the safety of your assets is tied to how you manage your recovery phrase and device. Take time to understand the basics, follow the security best practices in this guide, and you’ll be well-positioned to participate in crypto in a secure, durable way.

Want more detailed walkthroughs, videos, or support? Visit the official Ledger support pages and community guides for step-by-step videos and the latest firmware notes.