Welcome to Ledger: Your Gateway to Digital Independence

Congratulations on taking the first step toward truly owning your digital assets. At Ledger, we don't just sell hardware wallets; we provide the foundation for sovereignty, security, and simplicity in the new digital age. This page is your launchpad. We’ll guide you through unboxing your Ledger device, setting it up with absolute security, and embarking on your journey to self-custody.

The cryptocurrency revolution is about more than new forms of money—it’s about reclaiming control. Your Ledger hardware wallet is the key that puts you in charge, ensuring that your crypto assets, NFTs, and digital identity remain accessible only to you. Let’s begin.

Why Your Journey Starts with a Ledger

Before you open the box, understand the "why." Unlike software wallets or exchange accounts, a Ledger device is a dedicated, offline vault for your private keys—the cryptographic secrets that control your assets.

• Unbreakable Security: Our devices are built around a Secure Element chip, the same technology used in passports and credit cards. It’s designed to be physically and digitally tamper-proof.

• Complete Self-Custody: Not your keys, not your crypto. With Ledger, you own your keys. You are your own bank, free from third-party risks.

• Ecosystem Access: From buying and staking crypto to managing NFTs and exploring Web3 applications via Ledger Live, your device is the secure gateway.

Your Step-by-Step Getting Started Guide

Follow these steps carefully. Security is a process, and attention to detail here is your first line of defense.

Step 1: Unbox & Verify Authenticity

Inside your box, you’ll find your Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax), a USB cable, recovery sheets, and keychain straps. Your first critical action is to verify your device is genuine.

• Check the Tamper-Evident Seal: The box is sealed with a holographic sticker. If it’s broken or missing, do not proceed.

• Device Integrity Check: When you connect your device to Ledger Live for the first time, our software will automatically run a genuine check. Never use a device that fails this verification. Learn more about our anti-tampering measures.

Step 2: Set Up Your New Ledger Device

1. Connect & Power On: Connect your Ledger to your computer using the provided USB cable. Follow the on-device screen instructions using the buttons to navigate.

2. Initialize as New Device: Choose “Configure as new device.”

3. Create Your PIN Code: This 4-8 digit code is your device’s first line of physical defense. Choose one only you know. The device will never display it again, and Ledger never knows it.

Step 3: Write Down Your Recovery Phrase – THIS IS NON-NEGOTIABLE

This is the single most important step in your crypto journey.

• Your device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase (also called a seed phrase). This phrase is a human-readable representation of your private keys.

• Write each word in order on your supplied Recovery Sheet. Use a pen. Do not type it, screenshot it, or store it digitally.

• The Golden Rules:

  • Never share these 24 words with anyone, for any reason.

  • Never enter them on a website or software app. Your Ledger device is the only place you should ever input them.

  • Store the sheet in a safe, durable place—like a fireproof safe or safety deposit box. Consider a Ledger Recovery Phrase Backup product for ultimate resilience.

Step 4: Install Ledger Live – Your Command Center

Download Ledger Live, our secure desktop and mobile application, from our official website only.

• Install the app on your computer or smartphone.

• Follow the in-app instructions to “Set up from scratch” and connect your Ledger device. Ledger Live will verify your device’s authenticity.

Step 5: Install Apps & Add Accounts

Your Ledger device works with applets for each cryptocurrency.

• In Ledger Live, go to the Manager tab.

• Connect and unlock your device.

• Browse and install the apps for the assets you own (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Polkadot).

• Return to the Accounts tab to add accounts for each installed app. Your device will derive public addresses, which you can now use to receive crypto.

Step 6: Take Your First Actions

You’re ready! You can now:

• Receive Crypto: Use the “Receive” function in Ledger Live. Always verify the receiving address on your device screen matches the one in Ledger Live.

• Send Crypto: Initiate a send in Ledger Live. You must physically confirm and approve every transaction on the device itself.

• Explore: Use the Discover tab to buy, swap, or stake crypto through Ledger’s integrated partner services, all with the security of your device.

Best Practices from Day One

• Regular Firmware Updates: Always keep your Ledger device firmware and Ledger Live updated via the Manager tab for the latest security and features.

• Verify, Then Trust: Always verify transaction details (amount, address, fees) on your device screen before approving.

• Beware of Phishing: Ledger will never contact you asking for your 24-word phrase, PIN, or to send crypto. Bookmark our official site and double-check URLs.

You’re Not Alone on This Journey

Ledger Academy is your free, in-depth resource for understanding blockchain, security, and how to make the most of your device. Our Ledger Support team is here to help if you get stuck.

This is more than a setup. It’s the beginning of your digital independence. Welcome to the Ledger family.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. I’ve set up my device. Can I just unplug it and put it in a drawer?
Yes, absolutely. Your crypto assets are stored on the blockchain, not on the device itself. The device is a secure key manager. As long as you have your 24-word recovery phrase stored safely, your assets are recoverable even if the device is lost, stolen, or damaged. You can store the device offline in a secure place.

2. What happens if I forget my PIN code?
This is not a problem, thanks to your recovery phrase. After three incorrect PIN attempts, the device will reset itself (wipe its memory). You can then restore access to all your accounts by setting up the device again and selecting “Restore from Recovery Phrase.” Your PIN protects physical access; your recovery phrase is your ultimate backup.

3. Is Ledger Live mandatory? Do I need to use it?
While highly recommended for a seamless, integrated experience, Ledger Live is not the only way to interact with your device. Your Ledger is compatible with over 50 third-party wallets and Web3 applications (like MetaMask, Phantom, etc.) where you can connect your device for secure transactions. However, Ledger Live is essential for initial setup, firmware updates, and managing apps on the device.

4. I already have crypto on an exchange. How do I move it to my Ledger?
This process is called “withdrawing to self-custody.” In your exchange account, find the “Withdraw” or “Send” function for the specific cryptocurrency. Generate a receiving address for that asset in your Ledger Live account (following the “Receive” flow). Copy that address, paste it into the exchange, and confirm the withdrawal. Always do a small test transaction first.

5. Why does my Ledger device screen show a different address than Ledger Live when receiving?
This is a critical security feature, not an error. Your device is asking you to visually verify that the address on its secure screen matches the one shown on your potentially vulnerable computer screen. This prevents malware from swapping out the address and stealing your funds. Only proceed if they match exactly.

6. Can I use one Ledger device for all my cryptocurrencies?
In most cases, yes. Your single 24-word recovery phrase manages keys for all supported blockchains. You simply install the relevant app for each cryptocurrency (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.) onto your device via the Manager in Ledger Live. The device’s storage space is limited, but you can uninstall and reinstall apps at any time without affecting your holdings, as they are tied to your recovery phrase, not the app on the device.