Ledger Getting Started Hub — ledger.com/start

Why choose Ledger? (h2)

Hardware security that isolates your keys (h3)

Ledger devices are purpose-built hardware wallets that keep your private keys offline, under your control. That means keys never leave the device and cannot be exfiltrated by ordinary malware on a computer or phone. For teams managing crypto treasury or individuals securing long-term holdings, that isolation is the most important feature.

Real-world benefits (h4)

Air-gapped key storage reduces exposure to remote attacks.
Ledger's secure element chip is designed to resist physical tampering.
Regular firmware updates (via the official hub) keep the device current.

Official start link (h5)

Download Ledger Live or check model compatibility on the Ledger site: https://www.ledger.com/start

First steps before you unbox (h2)

What you should prepare (h3)

Before turning the device on, set up a small clean workspace and your primary devices (a computer or smartphone). Have a pen and the supplied recovery card ready. Ensure your internet connection is stable for initial downloads — but remember the private keys remain on the device.

Checklist (h4)

Original package seal intact — verify authenticity.
Latest Ledger Live installer: ledger.com/start.
Pen for writing your recovery phrase on the recovery card.
Paper or metal backup if you prefer higher durability than paper.

Office-friendly tip (h5)

If you're setting up multiple devices in an office, label each device and recovery material carefully and keep a single inventory record (not the recovery phrase) in a secure password manager or access-controlled spreadsheet.

Security basics (h2)

Seed phrase, PIN, and device integrity (h3)

Three pillars of Ledger security:

Seed phrase: Your 24-word recovery phrase is the single most important item. Store it offline and never share it.
PIN: A short PIN prevents casual access if the device is stolen.
Authenticity checks: Ledger Live can verify device authenticity during setup; always use the official site for downloads: ledger.com/start.

Common social engineering attempts (h4)

Attackers might impersonate support, promise help, or request your recovery phrase. Ledger staff will never ask for your 24 words. If you're offered remote setup help, decline and insist on official documentation or in-person assistance.

Security quick rule (h5)

Never type your recovery phrase into a computer or phone. The phrase exists to let you recover funds; exposing it is equivalent to handing over your wallet.

Step-by-step setup (h2)

Unboxing and initial setup (h3)

Power on the device, follow the on-screen prompts, and choose Set up as new device if you don't have an existing seed. Ledger devices will prompt you to choose a PIN and then display the 24-word phrase one screen at a time. Write each word in order on the recovery card supplied in the box.

Download Ledger Live (h4)

Ledger Live is the official companion app for installing apps on your device, managing accounts, and sending/receiving crypto. Always download Ledger Live from the official hub: ledger.com/start.

Install apps and add accounts (h4)

Inside Ledger Live, open the Manager tab, connect your device, and install the app(s) you need (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Then add accounts in the Accounts tab. The device will be used to confirm transactions.

Office deployment hint (h5)

If multiple people in the office need access, consider multisig or shared custody solutions rather than sharing one recovery phrase—this limits single-person risk.

Using Ledger Live daily (h2)

Routine tasks and best UX (h3)

Ledger Live is where you'll check balances, manage apps, and view transaction history. Connect the device only when performing an action requiring a signature. Use the Receive flow to create an address on the device and confirm it visually before sharing it.

Update firmware safely (h4)

Firmware updates occasionally ship and can require several checks. Always confirm that the update prompt appears on your device and that you're using Ledger Live downloaded from the official site: ledger.com/start.

Advanced office workflow (h5)

For treasury management, schedule periodic audits, separate duties (one person prepares transactions, another signs), and keep a secure log of device serial numbers and firmware versions (never store recovery phrases in logs).

Backups & recovery (h2)

Handling the 24-word seed (h3)

There is only one correct way to back up: write the words on the recovery card or durable backup medium, and store it offline in a secure place. Consider a waterproof and fire-resistant metal backup for long-term durability. If the device is lost or damaged, the recovery phrase is how you restore funds elsewhere.

Split backups (h4)

For enterprise setups, a split backup strategy using Shamir's Secret Sharing (SSS) or multi-sig is preferable. Ledger offers specific hardware and documentation on advanced backups — start at the official hub to learn more: ledger.com/start.

Secure storage suggestions (h5)

Single secure safe deposit box for ultra-critical recovery phrase.
Distributed storage for redundancy (two geographically-separated trusted locations).
Never photograph or store the seed phrase in cloud storage.

Operational best practices (h2)

For individuals and offices (h3)

Use strong internal policies: clearly define who can initiate transactions, who can approve them, and how devices are inventoried. Avoid mixing personal and corporate wallets on a single device to prevent audit and compliance complications.

Access control (h4)

Implement role-based access when possible and consider solutions like multisig to minimize single points of failure. Ledger’s ecosystem integrates with many third-party custody and multisig partners — check compatibility on the official hub: ledger.com/start.

A note about phishing (h5)

Phishing links often mimic official pages. Always type the Ledger URL yourself and prefer bookmarks. When in doubt, go directly to ledger.com/start.

Troubleshooting common issues (h2)

Device not recognized (h3)

Common troubleshooting steps: try another USB cable/port, reboot the host device, ensure Ledger Live is up to date (official download: ledger.com/start), and check for OS permissions blocking USB devices.

Firmware or app install issues (h4)

If a firmware update or app installation fails, follow Ledger Live’s prompts carefully and don’t disconnect the device during the update. If recovery is needed, Ledger Live provides a recovery flow; always verify instructions against the official hub.

When to contact support (h5)

Contact official Ledger support only through the links provided on the Ledger website. Avoid third-party “help” forums that request seed phrases or remote access. If unsure, verify support channels at ledger.com/start.

10-item office checklist (h2)

Make onboarding repeatable (h3)

Order devices sealed from official channels.
Store packaging and serial numbers in a secure inventory.
Download Ledger Live for the intended OS from ledger.com/start.
Designate an onboarding officer for initial device setup.
Use a standard recovery procedure and backup medium (paper + metal recommended).
Implement multisig for any treasury above a threshold.
Audit access logs periodically and reconcile transactions.
Secure physical storage for recovery media (safe or bank vault).
Enforce firmware update policy (test on staging device first).
Train staff on phishing and social engineering avoidance.

Workflows & links (h4)

Central resources and downloads should be bookmarked in a secure internal wiki that points to the official Ledger hub: ledger.com/start.

Conclusion & next steps (h2)

You've taken the first step (h3)

Using a Ledger device is an effective way to keep control of your crypto assets while reducing exposure to online attack vectors. Pair good operational habits with Ledger's devices and always rely on the official Ledger Getting Started hub for downloads and how-to materials: ledger.com/start.