Welcome — what this page helps you do
This guide takes you from unboxing to secure usage. It covers downloading the official Ledger Live companion app, initializing your device (Nano S / Nano X models), creating a PIN, saving your recovery phrase safely, installing apps for different coins, and best practices for long-term custody. For the official onboarding tools and downloads, Ledger provides a dedicated start hub and the Ledger Live app as the trusted companion for managing assets. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Quick start — the 6 essential steps
Get the official Ledger Live app for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android). Ledger Live is the verified companion app to manage accounts, install coin apps and send/receive crypto. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Connect the device using the supplied cable and follow on-device prompts to set a PIN. If your device already shows an initialized state, choose the restore option only if you control the recovery phrase you intend to restore.
Your device will display a 24-word recovery phrase (sometimes 12 or 18 depending on model). Write it down on the supplied card and store it offline in a safe place — never share it or enter it into a computer. This phrase is the only way to recover your funds if your device is lost or damaged.
Open Ledger Live, go to Manager, and install the apps for the coins you want to manage. Each coin (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) has its own on-device app which provides account isolation and security.
After apps are installed, add accounts in Ledger Live and copy your receive address from the app to receive funds securely.
Ledger periodically releases firmware and Ledger Live updates for security and compatibility — apply updates only from official Ledger channels.
Security essentials
Ledger hardware wallets keep private keys inside a secure element chip, designed to resist physical and remote attacks. Never share your recovery phrase, and be cautious of phishing sites pretending to be Ledger — always confirm you’re using official ledger.com resources. Ledger also offers complementary recovery options and services (such as Ledger Recover) that can assist in specific recovery scenarios; understand trade-offs before using third-party recovery services. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- PIN — Use a memorable but non-obvious PIN. Avoid easy sequences.
- Recovery phrase — Store physically in two different secure physical locations if possible.
- Phishing — Always type ledger.com manually or use bookmarks; don’t follow unsolicited links.
Restoring a wallet
If you already have a recovery phrase from a previous device, choose “Restore from recovery phrase” during setup and carefully enter the words in order. Only restore when you are certain the phrase is correct and never restore on a device you obtained second-hand unless you first reset it to factory settings.
Need help?
Ledger maintains extensive support docs and step-by-step tutorials if you run into issues. For device-specific walkthroughs (Nano X / Nano S series) and troubleshooting, consult Ledger’s official support center. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}