Start at Ledger.com/start
Type the address yourself and check the domain carefully. Avoid sponsored search results, unsolicited messages, and links from unknown sources.
A practical guide to getting started
Your keys.
Your responsibility.
A clear, security-first walkthrough for setting up a Ledger hardware wallet—and keeping your recovery phrase yours alone.
Independent educational guide · Always verify instructions at Ledger.com
⌑WALLET READY
RECOVERY PHRASE⌑
KEEP PRIVATE · NEVER SHARE
SECURE
BY DESIGN
01 / 06
BY DESIGN
01 / 06
Your recovery phrase is the master key.
Keep it offline. Keep it to yourself.
Keep it offline. Keep it to yourself.
THE GOLDEN RULELedger will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase.Know the warning signs →
01 — THE RIGHT START
One trusted starting point.
Fewer chances to get it wrong.
Your setup journey should begin at Ledger.com/start, the official entry point for device onboarding and software. Fake setup pages and altered downloads can put your assets at risk, so don’t rely on search ads, third-party download sites, or links in unsolicited messages.
A hardware wallet keeps private keys protected by the device while you review and authorize actions. It does not make every risk disappear: you still need to protect your recovery phrase, verify transactions, and make careful decisions.
02 — YOUR WALKTHROUGH
Set up with
confidence.
Take your time. Follow the prompts on the device, and never let anyone rush you through setup.
↗
Get Ledger Wallet
Follow the official setup page to download Ledger’s companion app for your computer or phone. Use only the official source and verify the publisher.
Connect your device
Use the cable supplied with your wallet, open the app, and follow the on-screen prompts to initialize a new device.
Choose a private PIN
Set a PIN on the device itself. Pick a number that is difficult to guess and never share it with anyone.
Write down your recovery phrase
Your device will generate a recovery phrase. Write it on paper and keep it offline in a private, secure place. It is shown only during setup.
Verify on the device
Confirm the words using your hardware wallet’s screen. Never type your recovery phrase into a website, computer, phone, or app.
Important: Ledger Wallet has had naming changes over time. Use the official setup page to find the current app and instructions for your specific device.
Visit official setup ↗03 — PROTECT THE MASTER KEY
Your recovery phrase
is not a password.
It can restore access to the crypto accounts associated with your wallet. Anyone who gets it may be able to take your assets. Ledger does not store it, have access to it, or keep a backup for you.
!
If anyone asks for your phrase, it’s a scam.
That includes people claiming to be Ledger support.
That includes people claiming to be Ledger support.
NEVER DO THIS
01
Enter your phrase on a website or into an app
×02
Store it in cloud notes, photos, or email
×03
Share it with support—or anyone else
×04
Approve a request to “validate” or “sync” it
×04 — SECURITY HABITS
Small habits.
Stronger protection.
Security is a routine—not a one-time setup. Make these practices part of how you use your wallet.
Keep it offline
Store your recovery phrase on paper or another durable offline medium, away from cameras and connected devices.
Verify before approving
Read transaction details on the wallet screen itself. Reject anything you did not initiate or do not understand.
Buy through official channels
Use Ledger’s official store or an authorized reseller. A device with a pre-written recovery phrase or PIN should never be used.
Keep software current
Install firmware and app updates through the official Ledger Wallet app, after reviewing the prompts.
05 — QUICK ANSWERS
Good to
know.
When in doubt, pause and check official Ledger guidance directly.
Visit Ledger Support ↗What does Ledger Wallet do? +
It is Ledger’s companion app for managing accounts and supported assets while private keys stay protected by your hardware wallet. Features vary by asset and region.
What if my device arrives with a phrase already written down? +
Do not use that phrase or the device as configured. A recovery phrase should be generated on your own device during setup. Contact Ledger Support through its official site.
Can I recover a lost recovery phrase from Ledger? +
No. Ledger does not have access to your recovery phrase or maintain a backup. Keep your own secure offline backup and understand the risk of loss.
Is this the official Ledger support website? +
No. This is an independent educational guide, not an official Ledger website. Always verify downloads, device instructions, and support information directly at Ledger.com.
READY WHEN YOU ARE
Start with the
official source.
Verify the domain. Follow the official instructions. Keep your recovery phrase private.
Open Ledger.com/start ↗ledger.com/startIMPORTANT DISCLAIMER
This guide is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not financial, investment, legal, or security advice. Cryptocurrency involves significant risk, including the potential loss of all funds. You are responsible for your security practices and financial decisions. Always verify information directly from official sources at Ledger.com/start. Ledger does not store, access, or back up your Secret Recovery Phrase. Never share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone, including Ledger support. If anyone asks for it, it is a scam. The author and publisher assume no liability for losses or damages arising from use of this information. Some links may be affiliate links, which may earn a commission at no extra cost to you; this disclosure is made in accordance with FTC guidelines.