Welcome to Your Secure Crypto Journey

Congratulations on taking a crucial step towards securing your digital assets. Your Ledger hardware wallet is a state-of-the-art device designed to protect your private keys from the online world, giving you true ownership and control. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire setup process, from unboxing to sending your first transaction, ensuring you do so with confidence and security.

The first and most vital step is to visit the official and verified site: Ledger.com/Start®®. It is imperative that you **manually type this address** into your browser's URL bar. Never click on links from emails, social media, or search results that claim to be the official Ledger site, as these can be phishing attempts designed to compromise your funds. The official Ledger page will guide you to download Ledger Live, the essential software for managing your device.

This guide is crafted to provide a secure and seamless experience, covering every detail to ensure your assets are protected from the start. Take your time, read each step carefully, and remember that your security is your own responsibility.

Step 1: Unboxing and Verifying Your Device

Before you connect your Ledger, it's essential to perform a physical inspection to ensure the package hasn't been tampered with. This is your first line of defense against supply-chain attacks.

What to Look For:

Step 2: Downloading and Installing Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official application that allows you to manage your crypto assets. It's the secure gateway for your device, enabling you to install apps, send/receive funds, and check your balances.

  1. Go to the Official Site: Navigate to Ledger.com/Live and download the application for your specific operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux). Always use this official link to avoid downloading malicious software.
  2. Run the Installer: Launch the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions. The installation is straightforward and will set up everything you need to begin.
  3. Launch Ledger Live: Once installed, open the Ledger Live application. The application will guide you through the next steps of connecting and initializing your device.

Step 3: Device Initialization and Security Setup

This is the most critical part of the entire process. Your Ledger device will generate a unique set of cryptographic keys offline, and you will back up the master key in the form of a recovery phrase. This is the only backup you will ever have.

Create a New Wallet:

  1. Connect and Get Started: Plug your Ledger device into your computer and follow the prompts in Ledger Live. Select "Initialize as new device."
  2. Choose a PIN: Your Ledger's screen will ask you to choose a PIN code. Use the buttons on your device to select and confirm your PIN. This PIN is a physical lock for your device, protecting it from unauthorized use. Your PIN is not a substitute for your recovery phrase.

Write Down Your Recovery Phrase:

  1. The 24 Words: Your Ledger device's screen will display a series of 24 words, one at a time. This is your **Recovery Phrase**. It is a hierarchical deterministic (HD) backup of all your private keys.
  2. Write Them Down: Carefully write down each of the 24 words in the correct order on the recovery phrase sheets provided in the box.
  3. Double-Check: Your Ledger device will ask you to confirm a few words from your recovery phrase to ensure you have written them down correctly. This is an essential check.

WARNING: Your recovery phrase is the single most important piece of information for your crypto security. If you lose it, you lose access to your funds. If someone else gets it, they can steal your crypto. Store it in a **safe, secure, and private location offline**. Do not take a photo, store it on a computer, email it, or use any online service to store it. For a deeper understanding, please read our guide on how to keep your 24-word recovery phrase secure.

Step 4: Installing Apps and Managing Your Assets

Now that your device is initialized and secured, you can start using it to manage your crypto. This is all done through the Ledger Live application.

  1. Install Cryptocurrency Apps: Go to the Manager section in Ledger Live. You will see a list of available cryptocurrency apps. Install the apps for the assets you wish to manage. For example, to hold Bitcoin, you need to install the Bitcoin app on your device. Follow this guide on how to install apps on your Ledger device.
  2. Add Accounts: After installing an app, you can add an account for that cryptocurrency. This will generate a public address for you to receive funds.
  3. Send and Receive: You can now use Ledger Live to send and receive crypto. When you send funds, your Ledger device will require you to physically verify the recipient's address and the transaction amount on its small screen. This security feature ensures that a hacker cannot alter the transaction details.

Key Security and Best Practices

Your Ledger device is a powerful tool, but your vigilance is the ultimate security layer.

Troubleshooting and Additional Resources

If you encounter any issues, don't worry. Ledger has a vast support network to assist you. Here are some common issues and where to find help:

For more in-depth knowledge about cryptocurrencies and security, visit the Ledger Academy. To explore other products in the Ledger family, visit our products page. If you have any questions, our support team is ready to assist you.

Your assets are now secure. Welcome to the world of self-custody.

Launch Ledger Live