Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® | Getting started

Presentation • Getting started with Ledger — setup, security, and best practices
Presenter: Official Site® • Ledger.com/Start®

Getting started

Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start®

This presentation guides you through the first steps with Ledger hardware wallets: installation, initial setup, securing your recovery phrase, daily use, and important safety practices.

  • Slide deck format for training and onboarding
  • Visuals simplified for clarity
  • Actionable steps and references
Key takeaways
  1. Always use official downloads and firmware.
  2. Write and protect your recovery phrase offline.
  3. Confirm transactions on-device.
Slide 1 • Use as title and orientation.

Agenda

Topics we'll cover

  1. What is Ledger & Ledger devices?
  2. Download & Install: Ledger Live and drivers
  3. Initial setup: PIN, Recovery phrase
  4. Security best practices
  5. Using Ledger Live — accounts & apps
  6. Troubleshooting & support
  7. FAQ & further resources

This deck is designed for both individual users and small group onboarding sessions.

What is Ledger?

Ledger provides hardware wallets — small devices that store private keys securely offline. They are designed to keep your cryptographic secrets isolated from internet-connected devices, requiring physical confirmation on the device before signing transactions.

Device families

  • Ledger Nano S / S Plus — lightweight, cost-effective.
  • Ledger Nano X — Bluetooth-enabled, larger storage.
  • Ledger Stax (if applicable) — touchscreen models for enhanced UX.

Brand and model names used here reflect examples. Always reference the official site for current model information.

Download & Install

Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official desktop/mobile application used to manage apps, accounts, and firmware. Download it only from the official domain indicated above.

Steps

  1. Visit Ledger.com/Start® (type manually or use an official link).
  2. Choose your platform: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS or Android.
  3. Download and verify checksum if provided.
  4. Install and open Ledger Live to begin device setup.

Initial Setup

Unboxing & connection

  • Unpack and inspect the device for tamper evidence.
  • Use the supplied cable to connect to your computer or phone.
  • Open Ledger Live and choose "Initialize as new device" or "Restore from recovery phrase" if migrating.

Choose a PIN

Pick a PIN that is memorable but not trivial. The device uses PIN protection to prevent unauthorized physical access.

Generate your Recovery phrase

The device will show a 24-word recovery phrase (or 12/18 on some models). Write these words down in the order shown — never store them digitally. This phrase is the ultimate backup for your assets.

Do not share your recovery phrase with anyone, including support representatives. Ledger staff will never ask for it.

Recovery Phrase — Best Practices

Storage methods

  • Write on the provided recovery card or a dedicated backup plate.
  • Store multiple physical copies in geographically separated secure locations.
  • Consider steel backup options for maximum durability (fire/water resistant).

Passphrase (optional)

An optional passphrase adds an extra layer: it creates a separate hidden wallet derived from the same recovery phrase. Use it only if you understand how passphrases work — losing the passphrase means you lose access.

Avoid common mistakes

  1. Never photograph or type your recovery phrase on a connected device.
  2. Beware of phishing pages requesting your phrase to "recover account".
  3. Periodically verify your backup by restoring on a spare device (advanced users).

Using Ledger Live

Ledger Live lets you add accounts for multiple blockchains, install apps on your device, and manage transactions.

Core flows

  • Install App — Add a specific cryptocurrency app to your device using Ledger Live's Manager.
  • Add Account — Create accounts for the installed apps to view balances and transact.
  • Send/Receive — Compose transactions in Ledger Live; confirm details on the physical device before signing.
Note

Always double-check the destination address on the device screen. Malware on hosts can attempt to swap addresses.

Confirmations & On-device Verification

The device shows important transaction details (amount, destination address, fees) and requires a physical confirmation to sign. This ensures that even if your computer is compromised, you must approve transactions physically.

What to verify

  • Destination address (first and last characters may be shown — Ledger displays the whole address for some chains)
  • Amount and currency
  • Fee or gas estimate when applicable
For complex transactions (smart contracts), use the device's display to check contract details where available.

Firmware & Updates

Keep device firmware and Ledger Live up to date to receive security fixes and improvements. Ledger Live will notify you when a firmware update is recommended.

Update process

  1. Back up your recovery phrase before major firmware updates (recommended).
  2. Follow Ledger Live prompts; never accept an update from an unknown source.
  3. Do not disconnect the device during firmware update; interrupting may require recovery steps.
Caution

If you encounter unexpected prompts or messages, stop and review official docs/support before proceeding.

Troubleshooting

Device not detected

  • Try a different USB port or cable — use a data-capable cable.
  • Reboot the host machine and reconnect.
  • Ensure Ledger Live is installed and up to date.

App or account missing

  • Install the correct app using Ledger Live Manager.
  • Make sure your firmware version supports that app.

Still stuck?

Consult official support channels on the site and check community forums for similar issues — always avoid sharing your recovery phrase.

Security Checklist

  1. Download Ledger Live only from the official domain.
  2. Create and store the recovery phrase offline — multiple copies.
  3. Use a strong PIN on the device.
  4. Enable passphrase only if you understand the implications.
  5. Keep firmware and apps updated.
  6. Double-check addresses and amounts on-device.
  7. Avoid using public or compromised machines for sensitive operations.

Best Practices for Everyday Use

Routine habits

  • Use small test transactions when sending to new addresses.
  • Maintain an inventory of accounts and assets you manage.
  • Keep software minimal on frequently used hosts.
  • Consider multi-signature or custodial services for business-critical operations.

Physical safety

  • Keep your device physically secure and do not leave it unattended in public.
  • Use a tamper-evident bag if transporting hardware frequently.

Advanced Topics

Passphrases and hidden wallets

Passphrases create hidden wallets derived from your recovery phrase. They provide plausible deniability or separation but increase complexity — losing the passphrase means losing access.

Air-gapped signing & enterprise

For very large-value transactions, some setups use air-gapped signing devices or multisig arrangements to minimize online exposure.

Advanced operations are for experienced users and teams; document processes and test them thoroughly.

FAQ

Q: What happens if I lose my device?

A: Restore from your recovery phrase on a compatible device. The phrase is the backup — protect it.

Q: Can Ledger access my funds?

A: No. Ledger does not hold private keys or have access to your funds — the device is a key store under your control.

Q: What if I forget my PIN?

A: After multiple incorrect attempts, the device may wipe itself. Use your recovery phrase to restore on a new device.

Resources & Support

  • Official docs and guides at Official Site® (Ledger.com/Start®)
  • Knowledge base and troubleshooting articles
  • Community forums and developer docs for advanced flows
Contact

Use official support channels listed on the site for account-specific assistance. Never share your recovery phrase when seeking help.

Closing & Next steps

  1. Download Ledger Live and follow the guided setup.
  2. Create and securely store your recovery phrase.
  3. Practice small transactions to confirm workflows.
  4. Bookmark official resources and follow security best practices.

Thank you — now open the device and begin the on-device walkthrough with Ledger Live.

Appendix • Glossary

Common terms

  • Private key — cryptographic secret that signs transactions.
  • Recovery phrase — human-readable backup for a wallet (often 24 words).
  • Ledger Live — official app for managing Ledger devices and accounts.
  • Firmware — software running on the device; keeps device secure and functional.

Speaker Notes & Tips

  • Encourage hands-on participation for setup—walk participants through device screens step-by-step.
  • Emphasize the irrecoverable nature of recovery phrase loss.
  • Use real-world scenarios (sending to an exchange or another wallet) to demonstrate address verification.

Legal & Trademark Notice

This presentation uses the names Official Site® and Ledger.com/Start® as provided by the presenter. All product names, logos, and brands are property of their respective owners. This deck is an independent educational resource. For official policies and legal terms, consult the official site.

Thank you

Questions? Contact official support using the channels on the site. Remember — the recovery phrase is the single most important element to protect.

© 2025 • Official Site® • Ledger.com/Start®