Check the source
Begin at Ledger’s official website. Avoid sponsored lookalike links, unsolicited messages, and setup files shared by strangers.
A straightforward, independent guide to setting up a Ledger hardware wallet, protecting your recovery phrase, and taking your first steps with crypto.
A hardware wallet is designed to keep the keys that authorize your crypto transactions offline. The device works with wallet software, so you can review activity while keeping signing keys protected on the device.
For current, model-specific instructions, visit Ledger.com/start by typing the address yourself or using a verified bookmark. This guide is not operated by or affiliated with Ledger, and screens or features may change over time.
Open the official setup instructionsBegin at Ledger’s official website. Avoid sponsored lookalike links, unsolicited messages, and setup files shared by strangers.
Charge or connect your device, then follow the instructions shown on the device and in the official companion software.
Record the words in order, offline, and store the written copy somewhere private and secure.
Take time to verify every prompt on the device itself. Never let anyone rush you through setup.
It can restore access to the assets associated with your wallet. Treat it as a secret that must never be shared—not with support staff, a website, an app, or someone claiming to help.
Read Ledger’s security educationDo not photograph, email, message, or save your phrase in cloud notes or password managers.
A legitimate support agent will not need your recovery phrase. If a page asks for it, stop.
Check transaction details on the wallet screen before approving. A computer display can be misleading.
Unexpected warnings, giveaways, and deadline pressure are common social-engineering tactics.
Think of your device and its companion app as partners: one helps you review and manage, while the other confirms sensitive actions.
Transactions are authorized with your device rather than by handing your private keys to a website. You remain responsible for safeguarding access and checking what you approve.
Wallet software can help you view supported accounts and activity. Available networks and features depend on your device, software version, and region.
Depending on the product and supported network, you may connect with desktop or mobile software. Keep your device firmware and official apps current.
Crypto transfers are generally irreversible. A small test and a close look at every detail can help you avoid costly mistakes.
Choose the matching asset and network, generate a receive address, and verify it on your hardware wallet when available. Share only the address—not your recovery phrase. Confirm the sender uses the same network.
Check the recipient address, network, amount, and fees on your device screen. Consider a small test transfer first, especially with a new address. Approve only when every detail matches your intention.
After setup, you can use compatible wallet software to add supported accounts, review balances, and find transaction history. Account availability varies by asset and network; some may require an additional app or connection.
A wallet interface helps you interact with crypto; it does not remove market, network, or user-error risks.
A few minutes of preparation can make the initial walkthrough feel much less daunting.
Continue to Ledger.com/startType ledger.com/start directly in your browser or use a trusted bookmark. Check the domain carefully and avoid links sent in unsolicited messages. This guide is independent and cannot verify third-party sites for you.
Follow current official recovery guidance for your specific device. Recovery depends on your recovery phrase and how it was stored; never enter it into an unfamiliar website or share it with a person offering help.
Ask someone you trust to explain general steps, but keep the device PIN and recovery phrase private. Enter sensitive information yourself and make sure you understand each approval.
No. Keywise is an independent educational guide and is not affiliated with Ledger. Product instructions and supported features can change, so rely on official Ledger resources for current details.
Self-custody is a practice, not a race. Take your time, verify the source, and follow the current instructions for your exact device.
Begin on Ledger.com/start