Ledger Live: Getting Started for First-Time Users
Welcome to the world of secure, self-custodied **crypto management**. This definitive guide walks you through the essential **initial setup** process using your Ledger **hardware wallet** and the **Ledger Live** application. Follow these steps meticulously to guarantee your security from the very first connection. **Getting Started** correctly is the single most important step in protecting your digital wealth.
Phase 1: Unboxing and Authenticity Check
Before powering on your Ledger **hardware wallet**, a thorough physical audit of the packaging is mandatory. Ledger devices are shipped with **tamper-evident seals** to prevent supply chain attacks. If the seal on the packaging is broken, damaged, or appears to have been re-glued, stop immediately and contact Ledger support. A genuine, new Ledger **hardware wallet** will *never* come with a pre-configured **recovery phrase**. If you find one inside the box, the device has been compromised. The journey of **Getting Started** begins with physical proof of security.
- Check the Seals: Verify the protective seal on the box is intact and shows no signs of interference.
- No Pre-written Phrase: Ensure the box contains blank recovery sheets. The **recovery phrase** must be generated *by* the device itself.
- Source Verification: Confirm the device was purchased directly from Ledger or an approved, official retailer.
Phase 2: Initializing Your Hardware Wallet (Offline)
The most critical step of the **initial setup** is performed entirely on the **hardware wallet** screen, guaranteeing an offline, secure process. When you power up your Ledger **device** for the first time, you will be prompted to set up your **PIN code** and generate your **24-word recovery phrase**. This isolation from your computer is the core concept of **cold storage**.
Setting the PIN Code
Your **PIN code** (4 to 8 digits) is required to unlock your **Ledger device** for physical access. Input it directly using the buttons on the device itself. Never use simple sequences like `1234`. The Ledger device randomizes the number entry order, protecting you from screen-peeking attacks.
Recording the Recovery Phrase
Your **24-word recovery phrase** is displayed once and only once. This is your **master backup**. Write it down carefully on the provided recovery sheets. This phrase must **never** be typed into a computer, photographed, or stored digitally. Secure the physical sheet in a fireproof safe—it is the key to recovering your **digital assets**.
Phase 3: Connecting to Ledger Live & Genuine Check
With your Ledger **hardware wallet** initialized, you can now proceed with the software component of **Getting Started**.
- Download Ledger Live: Download and install the official **Ledger Live** application for your desktop or mobile device *only* from Ledger's website.
- Connect Your Device: Connect your Ledger **device** via the USB cable and enter your PIN code on the device.
- Run the Genuine Check: **Ledger Live** will automatically launch the **Genuine Check**. This unique cryptographic handshake ensures that the firmware on your Ledger **hardware wallet** is authentic and unmodified by malicious actors. This validation is a non-negotiable step in your **initial setup** and confirms the device's trustworthiness.
- Install Crypto Apps: Once verified, **Ledger Live** will prompt you to install the necessary cryptocurrency applications (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) onto your Ledger **device**. These apps enable the **hardware wallet** to interact with specific blockchains.
Phase 4: Your First Secure Transaction
You are now ready for basic **crypto management**. The first transaction should always be a small test transaction to confirm everything works.
Creating an Account
In **Ledger Live**, navigate to the 'Accounts' section and click 'Add Account'. Select the cryptocurrency you want to receive (e.g., Bitcoin). Ledger Live will synchronize with your **Ledger device** to create the corresponding secure account derived from your **recovery phrase**.
Receiving Your First Crypto
Select 'Receive' within that new account. **Ledger Live** will display a receiving address. **Crucially, your Ledger device will also display the exact same address on its screen.** You **must** verify the address matches on both the computer screen and the **hardware wallet** screen to prevent malware-based address substitution attacks. Only after physical verification should you copy the address and send your test amount. This verification is the core of **secure crypto management**.
The Long-Term Security Mindset After Getting Started
Successfully completing the **initial setup** and **Getting Started** guide establishes your **cold storage** foundation. To maintain this high level of security, always remember that your **24-word recovery phrase** is the single point of failure. It is non-recoverable and non-replaceable. If you lose it, your funds are lost. If someone else obtains it, your funds are stolen.
Furthermore, always perform all software updates (firmware and **Ledger Live** application) only through the official **Ledger Live** application. Never enter your **recovery phrase** into any software application, website, or digital device for any reason, including apparent recovery or validation purposes. The **hardware wallet** is designed so the phrase never needs to leave the device's secure enclave. By committing to these principles, your **Ledger device** and **Ledger Live** become the most reliable and trusted solution for **crypto management** available today.
You've Secured Your Digital Future!
With the **initial setup** complete, you are fully equipped for **secure crypto management**. You can now use **Ledger Live** to manage, swap, and stake your **digital assets** with the assurance of **cold storage** security.
Open Ledger Live Dashboard