L

Ledger — Start

Securely start your crypto journey

Start with Ledger

Ledger devices give you direct control of your crypto private keys, pairing military-grade security with an easy start experience. Whether you’re buying your first hardware wallet or recovering an account, this page walks you step-by-step so you can move from curiosity to complete ownership.

Quick tip

Keep your recovery phrase offline and never share it. Ledger will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase via email or chat.

[Ledger device illustration]

Set up in three steps

  1. 1. Buy an official Ledger device from a trusted retailer.
  2. 2. Follow on-screen prompts to create a PIN and backup your recovery phrase.
  3. 3. Install Ledger Live to manage assets and apps securely.
Start setup

Why choose a Ledger?

Ledger brings a blend of cold-storage security and a smooth user experience. The device protects your private keys in an isolated environment and signs transactions offline, preventing web-based attacks. Combined with Ledger Live, managing coins, NFTs and staking becomes straightforward and auditable.

Hardware-level security

Secure Element chip, PIN protection, and tamper-resistant hardware keep keys safe even if your computer is compromised.

Security-first design

Open ecosystem

Supports hundreds of coins and integrates with third-party apps so you can access DeFi, NFTs, and exchanges safely.

Security-first design

Recovery & portability

A 24-word recovery phrase gives you full control — portable and recoverable anywhere in the world.

Security-first design

How it works

This page is a concise guide to get you from unboxing to transacting with confidence.

1

Unbox & verify

Only buy from official channels and inspect the package tamper-evident seals. Ledger devices are shipped sealed; if anything looks tampered with, contact support.

2

Create your PIN & recovery

Follow the on-device prompts to set a PIN, then write down your 24-word recovery phrase on the supplied card. Store it offline in a safe place.

3

Install Ledger Live

Download Ledger Live to add accounts, install coin apps on your device, and manage transactions. Ledger Live is the official companion app that keeps an offline signing model simple.

4

Transact with peace of mind

When you send crypto, transactions are prepared on your computer and confirmed on-device. The device shows transaction details so you can verify addresses and amounts before approving.

Ready to start?

Enter your email and we’ll send an official setup guide and checklist to keep you safe while setting up your device.

We never ask for your recovery phrase. By submitting, you agree to receive official Ledger emails. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I lose my Ledger?

If you lose the device but have your 24-word recovery phrase, you can recover your accounts on a new device. If you lose both the device and the recovery phrase, funds are unrecoverable.

Can Ledger recover my funds for me?

No. Ledger never has access to your private keys or recovery phrase. Recovery is a user-side process using your recovery phrase on a compatible device or software wallet.

Is Ledger safe for NFTs and DeFi?

Yes — Ledger secures the keys used to sign transactions. Use official or trusted third-party apps for NFTs and DeFi and always confirm transaction details on-device.

Who should I contact for support?

Use official Ledger support channels from ledger.com. Beware of impersonators and never share your 24-word recovery phrase.