Fast, secure setup steps to get your Ledger hardware wallet working with Ledger Live. This guide covers unboxing, initializing, backup best-practices, firmware & app installs, and when to contact official support.
Check the box and tamper-evident seals. If anything looks altered, stop and contact Ledger support or the vendor where you purchased the device.
Download Ledger Live — the official companion application — directly from the Ledger website to set up the device and manage assets. Ledger Live runs on desktop and mobile and is the authorized route for firmware installation, account creation, and portfolio management.
Open Ledger Live and follow the guided flow. New devices will prompt a firmware install — allow Ledger Live to install the official firmware. Never install firmware from unofficial sources.
Choose Create a new device to generate a fresh recovery phrase (write it down physically). Choose Restore device only if you already have a recovery phrase to import your accounts.
Ledger devices use a Secret Recovery Phrase (usually 24 words). Write it on paper (or a certified physical backup) and never store it on a computer, phone, or cloud. Ledger also offers the Ledger Recovery Key product for an additional physical backup option.
Choose a PIN for local device access. Optionally enable a passphrase for a hidden/extra wallet — only use passphrases if you fully understand their implications.
When receiving funds, check the receiving address on your Ledger device screen, not just in the app. This prevents remote tampering or malware from showing a spoofed address.
Only download Ledger Live from ledger.com and install firmware via Ledger Live. Beware of fake Ledger apps or phishing sites that try to trick you into revealing your recovery phrase — Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase. If you see requests for your seed, treat it as a scam.