Ledger® Onboarding™ — Official Setup Hub | Ledger.com/start

Welcome to the Ledger onboarding hub. This step-by-step guide helps you get your Ledger hardware wallet set up securely with Ledger Live, explains recovery and safety practices, and walks through everyday use and troubleshooting so you can manage your crypto with confidence.

Overview

Ledger devices (for example, Ledger Nano S and Nano X) store private keys in a secure element on the device and require physical confirmation for transactions. The official onboarding hub — ledger.com/start — directs you to the correct Ledger Live downloads, firmware validation, and stepwise instructions. This page expands on that process with practical tips and clear security guidance to make setup and daily management straightforward.

What you'll need

  • A Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S, Nano X, or other supported model)
  • A computer or mobile device and the official USB/Bluetooth connection
  • Ledger Live (desktop or mobile) downloaded from the official site
  • Pen and the recovery sheet or a metal backup solution for the recovery phrase
  • A private, distraction-free space for initial setup

Important: Download Ledger Live only from the official Ledger website and never share your recovery phrase or PIN with anyone — Ledger support will never ask for them.

Unboxing & inspection

When you receive your Ledger device, check the box and seals for signs of tampering. If anything appears altered, do not use the device and contact Ledger through verified channels. Keep the original packaging until you have completed setup and are satisfied that everything is in order.

Download Ledger Live

Visit ledger.com/start and download Ledger Live for your platform (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android). Verify you are on the official site — bookmarking the URL for future access reduces the risk of phishing.

  1. Open ledger.com/start and select your device model.
  2. Download Ledger Live and follow the installer instructions.
  3. Open Ledger Live and choose Get Started to begin onboarding.

Initialize your Ledger — create a new wallet

Ledger will guide you through creating a new wallet on-device. The device generates a recovery phrase (seed) that is displayed on the device screen — write the words down in order on the recovery sheet provided, and store it offline.

  1. Connect the Ledger: Use the official cable or Bluetooth (if supported by your model).
  2. Choose "Set up as new device": Follow the device and Ledger Live prompts.
  3. Write the recovery phrase: Carefully copy each word in order. Do not photograph or store it electronically.
  4. Confirm the phrase: The device will ask you to confirm random words to ensure accuracy.
  5. Set a PIN: On-device PIN entry prevents unauthorized access if the device is lost or stolen.

Security reminder: The recovery phrase is the only backup to your funds. Anyone with it can restore your wallet.

Restoring an existing wallet

If you already have a recovery phrase from a previous Ledger or a compatible BIP39 wallet, choose Restore device during setup and enter the phrase on the Ledger device. After restoring, Ledger Live will rescan the blockchain and display your accounts and balances.

Adding accounts & managing assets

Ledger Live lets you install blockchain apps on the device and add accounts for many cryptocurrencies. Use the Manager to install coin apps and then add accounts to monitor balances and history in Ledger Live.

  • Install apps for supported coins via Manager → Install.
  • Add accounts and label them for bookkeeping (savings, spending, taxes).
  • Generate receive addresses and always verify them on the device screen before sharing.

Sending & receiving — always verify on-device

Prepare transactions in Ledger Live, but the final approval and signature are performed on the Ledger device. Carefully read and confirm the recipient address, amount, and fee displayed on the device before approving.

Pro tip: For new recipients, send a small test transaction first to confirm the correct address and process.

Firmware updates & device integrity

Keep firmware up to date. Ledger Live notifies you of official firmware updates. Only accept firmware updates presented by Ledger Live and verify device prompts — the device will show details to confirm authenticity before applying updates.

Backup options & long-term storage

Store your recovery phrase in at least one secure, geographically separated location. Metal backup plates provide durability against fire and water and are recommended for long-term storage. Avoid digital backups (photos, cloud storage, notes apps) which are vulnerable to remote theft.

Security best practices

  • Never share your recovery phrase or PIN. Ledger support will never request them.
  • Verify all transaction details on the Ledger device screen before approving.
  • Use a strong PIN and consider passphrases only if you fully understand risks and recovery implications.
  • Keep Ledger Live and device firmware updated via the official site.
  • Use separate accounts for different purposes to reduce exposure and simplify tracking.

Troubleshooting & common questions

If Ledger Live doesn't detect your device, try a different USB cable/port (avoid hubs), restart the app and your computer, and ensure Ledger Live is the latest version. For Bluetooth issues, check device compatibility and OS settings. If you forget your PIN, repeated incorrect entries will wipe the device; restore using your recovery phrase.

What if my device is lost or stolen?
Use your recovery phrase to restore on a new Ledger or compatible wallet. If you suspect the phrase is compromised, move funds to a new wallet with a fresh seed immediately.
Can Ledger Live run on multiple devices?
Yes — install Ledger Live on other trusted machines or mobile devices; the hardware device and recovery phrase are the authority for your accounts.

FAQ — quick answers

Does Ledger Live store my private keys?
No. Private keys remain stored on the Ledger device; Ledger Live only interacts with public account data and broadcasts signed transactions.
Will Ledger ever ask for my recovery phrase?
No. Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase or PIN. If someone does, it's a scam.
Should I use Bluetooth?
Bluetooth is convenient for mobile use on supported models, but wired connections reduce the attack surface. Choose based on your threat model and convenience needs.

Conclusion

The Ledger onboarding hub at ledger.com/start is designed to guide you through a secure, repeatable setup process. By following these steps — verifying packaging, using official Ledger Live downloads, writing your recovery phrase offline, confirming transactions on-device, and keeping software up to date — you establish a strong security posture for managing and protecting your cryptocurrency holdings.

Open Ledger Start