Ledger Start • Beginner
Ledger.com/Start

Beginner‑Friendly Ledger Hardware Wallet Setup

Start here to install Ledger Live, initialize your device, and protect your crypto with a security‑first routine. This page is an independent educational guide—always type ledger.com/start yourself for official instructions.

Open Quick Wizard Read Security Basics
Confirm addresses on the device
Keep 24 words offline
Run Genuine Check
Keep firmware current
Wizard

Three‑Phase Beginner Path

Phase 1 — Prepare

  • Update your OS and close other wallet apps.
  • Type ledger.com/start in your browser.
  • Download Ledger Live (desktop or mobile).
  • Have pen + paper or a metal backup kit ready.

Phase 2 — Initialize

  • Connect device → run Genuine Check.
  • Create a 6–8 digit PIN you can memorize.
  • Generate 24 words on device, write in order.
  • Update firmware from My Ledger.

Phase 3 — Go Live

  • Install only the coin apps you need.
  • Add accounts in Ledger Live (BTC, ETH, etc.).
  • Receive a small test deposit first.
  • Verify addresses on the device screen.
Pro tip: Trust the device screen over your computer. If the device and app disagree on an address, stop and re‑connect.
Setup

Detailed Steps (with notes)

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Install Ledger Live

Download for your platform and launch. Pick Set up a new device or Restore from recovery phrase if you already have one.

  • Decline analytics if you want minimal data sharing.
  • Enable auto‑updates to get security patches faster.

Genuine Check

The app verifies the secure element authenticity. If the check fails, don’t proceed—contact official support and do not expose your seed.

Secure a Strong PIN

A memorable but unpredictable code protects against casual access. Avoid birthdays and repeats. Practice input before daily use.

Record 24 Words (Offline)

Write the words in exact order—twice if possible—and store in two separate, secure places. Don’t take photos; don’t type the phrase.

Update Firmware

From My Ledger, keep firmware current. Wait until the device reboots and the version matches in both app and device settings.

Install Coin Apps & Add Accounts

Install apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) and then add accounts. EVM tokens typically appear under the Ethereum account.

Test Receive → Then Send

Receive a small amount first; confirm on the device screen. For sending, confirm amount + destination on device and avoid blind signing.

Secure

Security Basics (and common myths)

Best Practices

  • Keep the recovery phrase fully offline and private.
  • Prefer a metal backup; protect from fire/water.
  • Use a dedicated browser profile for Web3.
  • Verify every address on the device display.
  • Revoke stale token approvals periodically.

Myths to Forget

  • “Support needs my 24 words.” Never true.
  • “Screenshots are fine.” Screens are searchable; avoid.
  • “Seed in cloud is safe.” Treat cloud as exposed.
  • “I can skip test transactions.” Not with new wallets.

Passphrase (Advanced)

An optional extra word creates a separate hidden wallet. Only enable after practice; store the passphrase apart from the main seed.

Multisig Considerations

For teams or high‑value vaults, multiple keys reduce single‑point risk. Ensure a documented recovery procedure for cosigners.

Travel Mode

Move most funds to a vault at home; carry a low‑value wallet on trips. Avoid public PCs; use your own device when signing.

Reminder: The device signs offline. Your computer or phone broadcasts the transaction and shows balances.
Fix

Troubleshooting for Beginners

Try another USB port/cable, avoid hubs, unlock with PIN, and sit on the home screen. On Linux, add udev rules; on Windows, update USB drivers.

Close other apps, keep cable connected, and retry via My Ledger. If interrupted, reconnect and follow the recovery prompt in Ledger Live.

Check the network (mainnet vs testnet), reconnect the wallet, and verify the address on the device screen. Trust the hardware display.

Funds live on the blockchain. Acquire a replacement device and restore using your 24 words. If compromise is suspected, move funds to a new seed.

Toggle Bluetooth, forget the pairing, then re‑pair in Ledger Live Mobile. Keep the device close and away from interference.

Glossary

Quick Glossary for New Users

Recovery Phrase

12–24 words that recreate your wallet. Never digitize; store offline.

PIN

Unlocks the device; not a substitute for the seed.

Firmware

Internal device software; update for security fixes.

Address Verification

Matching the receive address on device vs app/browser.

Passphrase

Optional extra word for a hidden wallet. Advanced.

Multisig

Multiple keys required to spend; good for shared control.