A comprehensive step-by-step walkthrough for new Ledger device users
Welcome to this complete guide for setting up your Ledger device through Ledger.com/start. Whether you are new to hardware wallets or upgrading from a different security solution, this guide is designed to walk you through the entire process with clarity and convenience. Ledger devices are trusted worldwide by digital-asset users who want a secure, offline method of storing and managing cryptocurrencies. Because your Ledger device keeps your private keys offline, it dramatically reduces your exposure to hacking, unauthorized access, and remote cyber-attacks.
This article explains every step from unboxing to full setup and provides additional best practices to help you protect your digital wealth. While Ledger offers its own official instructions, this guide serves as an expanded, user-friendly companion, ensuring that you understand not only what to do, but why each step is important. By the end, you will have a complete understanding of how your device works, how to use Ledger Live, how to store your recovery phrase, and how to adopt stronger security habits for long-term protection.
The official setup process for Ledger devices begins at Ledger.com/start. This resource provides updated installation files, firmware information, and important security reminders. It is essential to always use the correct URL to avoid fake websites or phishing attempts. When you visit the official start page, you will be guided toward downloading Ledger Live — the companion application used to manage your crypto assets, track balances, and perform transactions securely.
Before you proceed, make sure your computer or mobile device is fully secure. That includes updating your operating system, enabling antivirus software, and making sure no remote-access tools are running. Since Ledger devices rely heavily on the environment they are connected to, your setup environment should be clean, private, and trustworthy.
When you unbox your Ledger device, you should find the following items:
It's important to verify that everything looks sealed, legitimate, and untampered with. Ledger devices do not come with pre-written recovery phrases. If you ever receive a box with an existing recovery phrase included, it is unsafe and must not be used. Only you should create your recovery phrase — and it must be stored securely offline.
Ledger Live serves as the central management application for your Ledger device. To download it safely:
Once installed, Ledger Live will guide you through choosing between a new device setup or the restoration of an existing wallet. For new users, select “Set up as new device.” Always ensure you are downloading from the official website, as third-party downloads could be manipulated by attackers.
Turn on your Ledger device by pressing its buttons. Ledger models use dual-button navigation — one button to move left, one to move right, and both buttons together to confirm selections. You will be guided through choosing a PIN code. This PIN protects your device from unauthorized access, so choose a combination that is neither too simple nor easily guessable.
Once your PIN is set, you will be prompted to generate your recovery phrase. This 24-word phrase is the most critical component of your wallet. It serves as the ultimate key to your digital assets. If your device is lost, damaged, or stolen, you can restore your entire wallet using these 24 words. It is essential to write the words down in the exact order and keep them secured in a safe place that only you can access.
Your recovery phrase should never be digitized, photographed, or stored online. Doing so creates vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit. Ideally, you should write it down on the recovery sheets provided or engrave it on a metal backup plate for even greater durability and fire resistance.
Ledger will ask you to confirm the recovery phrase by selecting the correct words in sequence. This confirmation ensures that you have recorded the words properly. Treat your recovery phrase with the same level of importance as your financial identity. Anyone with access to it can control your funds.
After completing the setup and syncing your device with Ledger Live, you can begin adding accounts for different cryptocurrencies. Each crypto requires its own account and sometimes a separate app on the Ledger device. Ledger Live will guide you through installing the necessary apps with clear on-screen instructions.
Once an account is created, you will be able to receive crypto using your Ledger-generated address. This address is safe to share publicly, but always confirm the receiving address on your Ledger device screen itself — not only on your computer or smartphone — as an added layer of protection.
Ledger's signature security principle is that all transactions must be approved physically from the device. This means that even if your computer is compromised, a hacker cannot send funds without you manually confirming the transaction on your Ledger. Always double-check the amount and address shown on the device display before approving.
Ledger Live will display your portfolio, transaction history, network fees, and price updates, helping you manage your digital assets with transparency and control.
Once your device is set up, maintaining good security habits is essential:
These habits ensure that your digital assets remain protected as you continue using your Ledger device.
Setting up your Ledger device through Ledger.com/start is an essential process for building a secure foundation for long-term cryptocurrency management. By following these steps — unboxing, installing Ledger Live, generating your recovery phrase, verifying your setup, and adopting strong security practices — you empower yourself with industry-leading protection.
Hardware wallets remain one of the most effective solutions for safeguarding digital assets, and Ledger has earned a reputation for reliability, innovation, and strong user support. With your device properly configured and your recovery phrase secured, you are now ready to store, manage, and grow your crypto portfolio with confidence and peace of mind.