Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started

Welcome to the official guide. You've taken the first step towards true financial sovereignty. Let's set up your device and secure your digital assets.

Start Setup Guide

Your Journey to Security Starts Here

1

Download Ledger Live

Ledger Live is your all-in-one companion app. It's the only software you need to set up your device, manage your assets, and access crypto services.

Ensure you are downloading directly from Ledger.com. Malicious actors often create fake versions to steal funds. Never download Ledger Live from an app store on a desktop computer; it's only available on our official website. Mobile versions are available on the official iOS App Store and Google Play Store.

2

Initialize Your Device

Connect your Ledger device to your computer or smartphone. The Ledger Live application will guide you through the entire initialization process. You will be prompted to set up a new device.

During this step, you will select a PIN code. This code (4 to 8 digits) unlocks your physical device. Choose a PIN that only you know and is not easily guessable (like 1234 or 0000). You will enter this PIN every time you want to use your device.

3

The 24-Word Recovery Phrase

This is the most critical step. Your device will generate a unique 24-word Recovery Phrase. This phrase is the only backup to all your crypto assets.

Write these 24 words down on the provided Recovery Sheet. Check your spelling. Keep this sheet physically secure and secret. NEVER enter it into any website, app, or computer. NEVER take a photo of it. Ledger will NEVER ask you for it.

Core Security Principles: Your Responsibility

Owning a Ledger device means you are in complete control of your assets. This is known as "self-custody," and it comes with great power and great responsibility. Unlike a bank, there is no "forgot password" button. Your 24-word recovery phrase is the master key to your entire wallet. If you lose it, you lose access to your funds. If someone else gets it, they gain full control of your funds.

Your security is a partnership. We provide state-of-the-art hardware, and you provide the vigilance to keep your recovery phrase and PIN code safe.

  • Your PIN Code: This protects your physical device from unauthorized use. If someone steals your device, they cannot access it without the PIN. After three incorrect guesses, the device resets itself.
  • Your Recovery Phrase: This is your backup. If your device is lost, stolen, or broken, you can buy a new Ledger (or any compatible hardware wallet) and use your 24 words to restore full access to all your accounts.
  • The Threat Model: Scammers will try to trick you into revealing your 24 words. They will send fake emails, create fake websites, or impersonate support staff. Remember the golden rule: NEVER share your 24 words with anyone, for any reason.

Ledger Live will also ask you to perform a "Genuine Check" during setup. This verifies that your device is a legitimate Ledger product and has not been tampered with. This check is performed every time you connect to Ledger Live, ensuring your device's integrity. Always trust the information displayed on your device's physical screen over what you see on your computer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the difference between my PIN and my 24-word Recovery Phrase?

Your PIN code (4-8 digits) is used to unlock your physical Ledger device. Think of it like the password for your phone. It prevents someone who physically has your device from using it.

Your 24-word Recovery Phrase is your master backup for all your crypto assets. It is generated *once* during setup and should be written down and stored securely offline. If you lose your device, you can use this phrase to restore your assets on a new one. Never share this phrase with anyone.

What happens if I lose my Ledger device?

If you lose your device, your assets are still safe *as long as you have your 24-word Recovery Phrase*. Your crypto is not stored *on* the device itself; it's on the blockchain. The device simply holds the private keys that give you access.

You can purchase a new Ledger device (or any BIP39-compatible wallet), choose the "Restore from Recovery Phrase" option during setup, and enter your 24 words. You will regain full access to all your accounts.

I made a mistake writing down my 24 words. What should I do?

If you have *not* sent any funds to your device yet, the safest option is to reset the device and start the setup process over to generate a new 24-word phrase. To do this, intentionally enter your PIN incorrectly three times. The device will reset to factory settings.

If you *have* already sent funds, you must create new accounts (preferably on a different device or by resetting your current one) and transfer your assets immediately. If you are unsure about your 24 words, your funds are not secure.

Why do I need to install apps on my Ledger device?

Each cryptocurrency (like Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) has its own application. These apps contain the specific cryptographic rules and logic needed to manage that particular asset. You install apps via the "My Ledger" tab in Ledger Live.

This design enhances security. By isolating each asset in its own app, any potential vulnerability in one app cannot affect your other assets. You can install and uninstall apps as needed; uninstalling an app does not affect your funds. Your assets are still tied to your 24-word Recovery Phrase.

What is a "passphrase" (or 25th word)? Do I need one?

This is an advanced feature and is not recommended for beginners. A passphrase (also known as a "25th word") is an optional, user-created word or phrase that is added to your 24-word recovery phrase. This creates an entirely new, separate set of private keys and accounts.

It provides "plausible deniability." You could have some funds in your main 24-word wallet and other (perhaps hidden) funds in your 24-word + passphrase wallet. If you forget your passphrase, the assets in that wallet are permanently lost. We recommend mastering the 24-word setup before exploring this feature.