Ledger.com/start — Hardware Wallet Setup: Official Onboarding and Installation Guide

This 1500-word colorful guide explains Ledger device setup, Ledger Live installation, initializing your wallet, PIN and recovery setup, sending and receiving crypto, security best practices, and troubleshooting tips with highlighted background sections.

Introduction

Ledger hardware wallets provide secure offline storage for your cryptocurrencies. Following this guide ensures proper setup, secure PIN and recovery configuration, and safe portfolio management.

Offline Security

Private keys never leave device

Multi-Crypto Support

Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more

Ledger Live

Manage, send, receive, and stake

1. Unboxing and Inspection

  • Check the seal, packaging, and accessories.
  • Included items: device, USB cable, recovery sheets, quick-start leaflet.
  • Report any suspicious signs to Ledger support.

2. Installing Ledger Live

  • Download Ledger Live from ledger.com/start.
  • Install on Windows, Mac, or Linux.
  • Open the app and follow the onboarding wizard.

3. Device Initialization

  • Power on device and choose "Set up as new device" or "Restore device".
  • Ledger will generate a recovery phrase (24 words) — write it down carefully.
  • Verify recovery phrase by confirming words on device.

4. PIN Setup

Choose a strong PIN (4-8 digits). Enter it on-device, never on your computer. This protects your funds in case of physical theft.

5. Recovery Phrase & Backup

  • Write the 24-word phrase in order on the provided recovery sheets.
  • Store offline in a secure place.
  • Do not take pictures or store digitally.

6. Ledger Live Accounts

  • Add supported cryptocurrencies.
  • Label each account for easier portfolio tracking.
  • Monitor balances and transactions securely within Ledger Live.

7. Sending and Receiving Crypto

  • Use Ledger Live to generate receive addresses and confirm them on-device.
  • Send funds by verifying transaction details on the device screen.
  • Track transaction status in Ledger Live.

8. Security Best Practices

  • Always confirm transactions on-device.
  • Keep firmware and Ledger Live up to date.
  • Beware of phishing emails and fake websites.
  • Keep multiple secure backups of recovery phrase.

9. Troubleshooting

  • Device not recognized: check USB cable, port, and Ledger Live version.
  • Recovery issues: ensure correct word order and spelling.
  • Firmware errors: reinstall latest Ledger Live and update device firmware carefully.

Conclusion

Ledger hardware wallets provide strong offline security for crypto assets. Following this guide ensures correct setup, safe backup of recovery phrases, PIN security, and confident use of Ledger Live for portfolio management.