YOUR FIRST STEPS, MADE SIMPLE

Own your next
move.

A calmer, clearer way to begin with self-custody. Set up your Ledger signer, create your wallet, and learn the small habits that help keep your digital assets yours.

Start the guide 8 minute read

Learn at your pace. Your keys stay yours.

A hardware wallet and phone arranged on a deep green surface

↗YOUR
ASSETS.
YOUR CALL.

A little knowledge goes a long way.

01 /Start with the basicsKnow what self-custody means.

02 /Set up securelyFollow a few essential checks.

03 /Make it your habitTake your time, stay in control.

THE GETTING STARTED GUIDE

Confidence comes
one step at a time.

A hardware wallet is a dedicated device designed to keep your private keys offline while you review and approve transactions. Your assets remain on their respective blockchains; your signer helps you authorize access. This distinction is the foundation of self-custody—and a good place to begin.

Begin at the source

Use the official Ledger website and verify the address carefully before downloading Ledger Wallet (formerly Ledger Live) or following setup instructions. Avoid sponsored search results, unsolicited messages, and links in direct messages. If anything feels unexpected, close it and navigate to the official site yourself. A genuine setup should never ask you to type your recovery phrase into a website, app, or support chat.

CHECK THE ADDRESS. EVERY TIME.

Choose your own PIN

Power on your device and follow the prompts on its screen. Choose a PIN that is difficult for others to guess and that you can remember. Enter it directly on the device, not on your computer or phone. Never share your PIN. If your device arrives with a PIN already set, or with a recovery phrase supplied in the box, stop and contact official support through the official website before proceeding.

ONLY TRUST WHAT YOU SEE ON DEVICE

Write down your recovery phrase

Your device generates a recovery phrase during setup. This phrase is a master backup: anyone who gets it may be able to access your accounts. Write each word in the order shown, using the supplied recovery sheet or another durable offline method. Check every word and its position. Keep the backup private, physically secure, and separate from your device. Never photograph it, store it in cloud notes, email it, or share it with anyone—not even someone claiming to be Ledger support.

OFFLINE. PRIVATE. NEVER SHARED.

Verify, then connect

Complete any recovery-phrase check on the device itself. Install the official companion software from Ledger’s website, connect your signer, and follow its genuine prompts to verify the device and install the apps you need. You may need a separate app for each blockchain account you use. Your assets do not live inside the device, and installing an app does not move funds; it helps the signer work with that network. When you are ready to transact, review the network, destination address, and amount carefully on the device screen. Fees and transaction details vary by network, and some actions cannot be reversed. Start slowly, understand what each approval means, and keep enough time to verify every detail without pressure.

LET THE DEVICE GUIDE APPROVALS

THE GOLDEN RULE

Your recovery phrase
is for recovery. Full stop.

There is no legitimate reason to enter it into a website or share it with a person. Treat urgent requests, “wallet validation” links, unexpected QR codes, and offers to help you restore an account as potential scams. Real support cannot recover your phrase for you and will never need it.

See common questions

Never type it online

No app, website, message, or support agent should ask for your phrase.

Never share it with anyone

Keep the words private—even from people you trust.

Verify every transaction

Read the details on your signer’s screen before approving.

Take your time

Pause when something feels rushed or unfamiliar.

YOUR FIRST SESSION

A few essentials.
Then you’re ready.

Use this on-device setup checklist as you go. Your progress stays in this browser, so you can come back when you’re ready.

0 of 5 complete0%

I downloaded the companion app from the official sourceI navigated to the site directly and checked the address.01 I chose and entered my PIN on my deviceNo one else knows it, and it wasn’t supplied in the box.02 I recorded and checked my recovery phrase offlineIt is private, legible, in order, and stored securely.03 I completed verification on the deviceI followed only the prompts shown on my signer.04 I know the rule: never share my recovery phraseNot with a person, website, app, or support agent.05

GOOD TO KNOW

Quick questions,
clear answers.

Do my crypto assets sit inside the Ledger device?

No. Digital assets are recorded on their blockchains. Your device protects private keys and lets you approve transactions for your accounts. Keep the device and recovery phrase safe because they help you control access.

What if I forget my PIN?

Do not guess repeatedly or follow instructions from a stranger. Consult current official Ledger support guidance for your specific device. Your recovery phrase is the backup used to restore access; it must remain offline and private.

Can I use the device with more than one account?

Most supported networks let you manage multiple accounts through the companion software. Confirm addresses and network details on your device, and start with a small test transaction when learning a new workflow.

Where should I go if I need help?

Start from Ledger’s official website and find its current support resources. Be cautious of unsolicited “helpers” on social platforms. Never disclose your recovery phrase to get assistance.

YOU’VE GOT THIS

Start steady.
Stay in control.

Self-custody is a practice, not a race. Keep learning, verify the details, and make each decision on your own terms.

Review your checklist

Own your nextmove.

Confidence comesone step at a time.