Ledger.com/Start® — Starting Up Your Device®

Welcome — this guide walks you through starting up your Ledger device the right way. Whether you're setting up a new device or restoring one, this walkthrough covers powering on, choosing a PIN, backing up your recovery phrase, pairing with Ledger Live, updating firmware, and essential security practices you need for a safe start.

Step 1 — Unbox & Inspect

Only start with a device bought from an official Ledger channel. Inspect packaging and tamper-evident seals. Never start setup if the device or packaging looks altered.

Step 2 — Power On & PIN

Power the device and follow on-screen prompts. Set a strong PIN on-device — never type your PIN into a computer or phone. The PIN protects access to the device if it’s lost or stolen.

Step 3 — Recovery Phrase

Your device will generate a recovery phrase (24 words usually). Write the words exactly in order on the supplied card or a metal backup; never copy them digitally or photograph them. This is the only way to recover funds if the device is lost.

Step 4 — Install Ledger Live

Download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website, install the app on your desktop or mobile, and follow the pairing flow to add accounts and install blockchain apps. Always verify downloads are from the official domain and check signatures when available.

Security-first Practices When Starting Up

Start with the assumption that your recovery phrase and PIN are the keys to your crypto. Never share your recovery phrase, never enter it into any website, and never store it on a cloud service. Use a metal seed backup if you plan to hold significant value long-term — metal resists fire, water and decay compared to paper.

When pairing with Ledger Live, ensure you install only the apps you need for the blockchains you will use (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Keep firmware and app versions up to date via Ledger Live; firmware updates often include security improvements. Always read on-device prompts before approving a firmware update and confirm that the firmware fingerprint matches official guidance if provided.

Practical Tips & Troubleshooting

If the device is not detected during pairing, try a different USB cable or port, enable the local Bridge/service prompt if your OS requires it, and ensure Ledger Live is the latest version. If Ledger Live reports an unexpected firmware state, follow official recovery steps and contact Ledger support rather than running community scripts.

Why Proper Start Matters

Starting up your Ledger correctly means your private keys are generated in a secure environment, known only to you and the device’s secure element. Proper initial steps — verified download of Ledger Live, safe storage of your recovery phrase, strong PIN and firmware checks — create a security baseline that protects your assets for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need Ledger Live to start my Ledger device?
Ledger Live is recommended to manage accounts and install apps. The core PIN and recovery phrase setup occurs on-device, but Ledger Live makes account management and firmware updates straightforward.
2. How should I store my recovery phrase after starting up?
Write it on the supplied card or a metal backup and keep it in a secure offline location (e.g., a safe). Do not photograph, copy to cloud storage, or share the phrase with anyone.
3. What if I lost my Ledger device right after starting it?
Use the recovery phrase to restore access on a new Ledger device or compatible hardware wallet. Treat recovery phrase security as top priority.
4. Is it safe to update firmware during first start?
Yes, if you use Ledger Live and official channels. Confirm prompts on-device and verify firmware notifications via official Ledger support resources.
5. Where can I get official help if something goes wrong during start?
Use Ledger’s official support channels and knowledge base. Do not share your recovery phrase with support or anyone; legitimate support will never ask for it.