Ledger.com/Start®

1 — Unbox & Verify

Before starting up, verify your package. Ensure your Ledger® device is purchased from an authorized seller. Check seals and packaging for tampering. Authenticity matters: starting with a genuine device ensures the cryptographic chain of trust that protects your private keys.

2 — Connect & Open Ledger Live

Connect your Ledger device using the included cable to a USB port. Visit the recommended start page and download Ledger Live for your operating system. Ledger Live will guide you through device initialization and will act as your desktop companion for managing accounts, sending/receiving crypto, staking and firmware updates.

3 — Initialize & Create Recovery

When you initialize your Ledger device, you will create a PIN and generate a recovery phrase. The PIN protects local device access; the recovery phrase (seed) is the master backup of your crypto. Write your recovery words on paper or use an approved metal backup — never store the seed digitally or photograph it. Keep multiple secure copies offline.

4 — Install Apps & Add Accounts

After initialization, use Ledger Live to install blockchain apps on the device (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). Add accounts in Ledger Live and let the app sync blockchain balances. Ledger Live shows portfolio overview and transaction history while keeping private keys on the device.

5 — Firmware & Security Checks

Always apply firmware updates when prompted via Ledger Live. Firmware updates are cryptographically verified — they maintain device security and add features. Before any firmware operation, confirm the prompts on your device display to ensure you are approving the intended action.

6 — Best Practices for Ongoing Safety

• Keep your recovery phrase offline and never share it.
• Use a strong PIN and change it periodically if needed.
• Only download Ledger Live and installers from trusted domains.
• Beware of phishing sites: bookmark your official start page to avoid imposters.
• Consider using passphrase-protected wallets for extra privacy.

Troubleshooting common start issues

If Ledger Live does not detect the device, try a different USB cable or port. Ensure the device display prompts for PIN entry. On Linux, confirm udev rules, and on macOS ensure permissions allow USB device access. Reinstall Ledger Live if discovery fails and reboot your system when requested.

Ledger Live — Your desktop companion

Ledger Live is the recommended desktop (and mobile) app to manage assets. It provides portfolio charts, market data, staking, swapping partners, and firmware management. Use Ledger Live to prepare transactions and confirm them on your Ledger device — private keys never leave the device. Download Ledger Live from official resources for safe Ledger Live installation.

Firmware updates — why they matter

Firmware updates patch vulnerabilities and add enhancements. Ledger’s firmware is signed; Ledger Live verifies signatures before applying updates. Always confirm the exact firmware hash and prompts on your device screen. If you ever suspect tampering, do not update and contact support via official channels.

Bing indexing & SEO tips for start pages

To help this start page be indexed quickly by Microsoft Bing: host under HTTPS, provide unique meta title and meta description, include structured data (JSON-LD), and submit sitemap.xml to Bing Webmaster Tools. Fast server responses, mobile-friendly layout, and clear step-by-step content improve crawl frequency. Keep content accurate, helpful, and avoid duplicate copies across domains.