Ledger — get started

1 Install Ledger Live (companion app)

Ledger Live is the desktop & mobile app used to manage accounts, install apps on your device, and send/receive assets.

1. On your computer or phone, download the official Ledger Live installer for your OS and run it.
2. Open Ledger Live and follow the on-screen "Get started" flow to choose your device model.
3. When prompted, allow ledger live to check for firmware updates and follow its guided steps.

Tip: Always download Ledger Live only from the official source or its verified app stores.

2 Initialize your Ledger device

Power on your device and follow the device screen to create a PIN and get a recovery phrase.

1. Choose Set up as new device when prompted. Create a secure PIN you can remember.
2. Your device will display a recovery phrase (typically 24 words). Write these words down, in order, on the supplied recovery card.
3. Keep the recovery phrase offline and secure — it's the only way to recover your funds.

Security hint: Never enter your recovery phrase into a computer or share it with anyone. Ledger will never ask for your full recovery phrase online.

3 Install apps & add accounts

Ledger devices host apps that support different blockchains. Use Ledger Live's Manager to install them.

1. Open Ledger Live and go to Manager. Connect and unlock your device when requested.
2. Install the app(s) for coins you want to manage (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana).
3. Once installed, add accounts in Ledger Live (Accounts → Add account) and follow the sync steps.

4 Send, receive, and verify transactions

Always verify transaction details on your physical device screen before confirming.

1. Receive: choose an account → Receive → verify the address on the device before sharing it.
2. Send: create a transaction in Ledger Live, then confirm the details on the device using its buttons.
3. Check: use transaction explorers if you need to independently verify on-chain activity.

5 Best practices & troubleshooting

1. Back up the recovery phrase in multiple secure locations (metal backup recommended).
2. Keep device firmware and Ledger Live updated for security improvements.
3. Beware of phishing: check domains and do not trust unsolicited links or support messages that request secrets.
4. If you lose the device, use your recovery phrase to restore on a new compatible hardware wallet.