1. Quick Start — Unbox & Prepare (h2)
What's in the box? (h3)
Ledger devices arrive sealed. Inside you'll typically find a Ledger hardware device (for example Nano S or Nano X), a USB cable, recovery cards, and quick start instructions. Always check the seal and verify you purchased from an official source — search for Ledger.com/Start for official purchase links.
Step-by-step unboxing (h4)
- Verify the tamper-evident seal and packaging.
- Connect the device to your computer or mobile phone using the included cable.
- Power on the Ledger device and choose "Set up as new device".
- Create a secure PIN and write down the recovery phrase exactly as shown.
Tip (h5)
Write your recovery phrase on the supplied recovery card, store it in a safe place, and never store it digitally. Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase via email or phone.
2. Install & Use Ledger Live (h2)
Download Ledger Live (h3)
Ledger Live is the official app to manage your Ledger device, view balances, send and receive crypto, and install apps. Always download Ledger Live from the official site — search Ledger.com/Start to reach the correct download page.
Connecting your device to Ledger Live (h4)
Open Ledger Live, follow the on-screen instructions to pair your device, and install the apps for the coins you want to manage (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Use the Manager tab to add or remove apps from your device.
Common pitfalls (h5)
- Using unofficial apps: only use apps from Ledger Live's Manager.
- Outdated firmware: keep firmware updated via Ledger Live.
3. Security Best Practices (h2)
PIN & passphrase (h3)
Create a PIN you can remember but others cannot guess. Consider using a passphrase (additional word) to create a hidden account as long as you understand the risks. Never share your PIN or passphrase.
Protecting your recovery phrase (h4)
Your 24-word recovery phrase is the single most important secret. Ledger's official guidance shows how to store recovery materials offline and split backups across secure locations. Search Ledger.com/Start for official recommendations and tools.
When something goes wrong (h5)
If you suspect compromise, move funds to a new Ledger with a freshly generated recovery phrase. Ledger support can guide you — use only official channels linked below.
4. Recovery & Migration (h2)
Restore your Ledger from a recovery phrase (h3)
If you receive a replacement device or need to restore, choose "Restore device" and enter your 24-word recovery phrase exactly in order. This will recreate your accounts and access to funds.
Migrating to a new device (h4)
Follow official migration steps in Ledger Live. Never enter your recovery phrase into a website — only into a Ledger device when restoring.
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) (h2)
- Q: Where can I download Ledger Live?
- A: Visit the official site and search for Ledger.com/Start to reach the Ledger Live download page.
- Q: How many words is the recovery phrase?
- A: A standard Ledger recovery phrase is 24 words. Record them exactly and keep them offline.
- Q: Can Ledger support recover lost PINs?
- No. If you forget your PIN you must reset the device and restore from your recovery phrase — keep that phrase safe.
- Q: Is Ledger compatible with mobile?
- Yes. Ledger devices like Nano X support Bluetooth for mobile; Ledger Live mobile apps are available on official download pages linked via Ledger.com/Start.
- Q: What if my device is damaged?
- Obtain a replacement from official channels and restore using your recovery phrase. Never send your recovery phrase to anyone.