Ledger.com/Start® | Starting Up Your Device - Ledger

A colorful 2000-word comprehensive guide to initializing and using your Ledger hardware wallet safely.

Updated: September 23, 2025

Introduction

Ledger provides secure hardware wallets for managing cryptocurrencies. Ledger.com/Start® is the official guide to help users start up their devices, set up accounts, manage their portfolio, and understand security best practices.

Secure Setup Portfolio Transactions

Why Ledger?

Keep private keys offline and safe from online threats.
Official software (Ledger Live) for managing all crypto assets.
Regular firmware updates and strong security standards.

Installing Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official application to manage your hardware wallet. Download it from ledger.com/ledger-live for Windows, macOS, or Linux.

Installation Steps

Download the correct version for your OS.
Open installer and follow instructions.
Launch Ledger Live and connect your Ledger device.

Initial Device Setup

Create a PIN and securely store it.
Write down your recovery phrase and keep it offline.
Verify firmware authenticity.

Dashboard & Account Management

Ledger Live displays account balances, transaction history, and portfolio metrics. Users can add multiple accounts for different cryptocurrencies.

Adding Accounts

Navigate to Accounts > Add Account.
Select cryptocurrency and follow prompts.
Label accounts for clarity.

Portfolio Overview

View portfolio charts, track token performance, and aggregate balances across multiple accounts for complete insight.

Sending & Receiving Funds

All transactions are signed on-device to prevent unauthorized changes. Ledger Live constructs transactions while the device confirms all critical details.

Receive Funds

Select Receive.
Verify address on the Ledger device.
Share only verified addresses.

Send Funds

Create transaction in Ledger Live.
Check recipient address and network fees.
Confirm and sign on-device.

Firmware & Software Updates

Keep your Ledger device and Ledger Live up-to-date. Only update through official channels and verify prompts on-device.

Best Practices

Stable internet connection is required.
Never enter recovery phrase for updates.
Follow on-device instructions carefully.

Security Tips

Ledger ensures strong security when combined with best practices: PIN protection, offline recovery storage, and careful transaction confirmation.

Keep recovery phrase offline and safe.
Use passphrase for extra security.
Confirm addresses and transactions on-device.

Troubleshooting

Device not recognized: check USB and drivers.
Firmware update issues: follow Ledger Live recovery steps.
Transaction mismatch: verify all details on-device.

Backup & Recovery

Your recovery phrase is crucial. Keep it offline and secure. Restore your Ledger device if lost or damaged using this phrase.

Restore Steps

Acquire new Ledger from official sources.
Select Restore Device during setup and enter recovery phrase.
Set new PIN and verify accounts in Ledger Live.

Daily Usage Tips

Keep Ledger Live updated.
Confirm all transactions on-device.
Use small test transactions for new services.
Regularly monitor account activity.

FAQs

Is Ledger Live free?

Yes, Ledger Live is free. Third-party services may charge fees.

Can I use Ledger Live without a device?

Most features require a Ledger hardware wallet to sign transactions.

Does Ledger access my private keys?

No. Private keys remain on-device; Ledger Live only facilitates signing.