Welcome to Ledger — Your Gateway to Secure Crypto Ownership
Congratulations on choosing Ledger, one of the world’s most trusted hardware wallet brands. By using a Ledger device, such as the Ledger Nano X or Ledger Nano S Plus, you gain full ownership and security over your digital assets. Unlike software wallets, your private keys never leave your hardware device — ensuring top-level protection against hacks and online attacks.
This guide walks you through every step of the setup process — from unboxing to installing Ledger Live, creating your recovery phrase, and managing your cryptocurrencies with ease. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned investor, ledger.com/start™ is the official starting point for every Ledger owner.
1. Unbox and Verify Your Ledger Device
Start by carefully unboxing your Ledger hardware wallet. You should find:
- Your Ledger device (Nano X or Nano S Plus)
- A USB-C or USB-A cable (depending on the model)
- Recovery sheets for writing down your recovery phrase
- A quick start guide
- Optional accessories or stickers
Always make sure your box is sealed and shows no signs of tampering. Ledger devices come with anti-tamper packaging for security purposes.
2. Go to ledger.com/start™ — The Official Setup Portal
Open your browser and visit ledger.com/start. This is the official and only legitimate place to download Ledger Live, the desktop and mobile app for managing your device and crypto assets.
Why Ledger Live?
Ledger Live acts as your secure interface for the blockchain world. It allows you to:
- Initialize and manage your Ledger device
- Install crypto apps and manage coins like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more
- Buy, swap, and stake assets directly within the app
- Track portfolio performance in real time
Download and install the appropriate version for your operating system — Windows, macOS, or Linux — and follow on-screen instructions.
3. Initialize and Set Up Your Ledger Device
Once Ledger Live is installed, launch the app and choose “Set up a new device.” You’ll then be guided through several critical steps:
- Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the USB cable.
- Follow the on-device instructions and select “Set up as new device.”
- Create a secure PIN code (4–8 digits). Don’t share it with anyone.
- Write down your 24-word recovery phrase on the provided recovery sheet.
- Verify your recovery phrase on the device when prompted.
4. Install Apps and Add Accounts via Ledger Live
After initializing your device, it’s time to install cryptocurrency apps. Each blockchain (like Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Solana) has its own app within Ledger Live.
To install:
- Open Ledger Live and go to “My Ledger”.
- Connect and unlock your device.
- Browse available apps and click “Install” for each asset you plan to manage.
- Once installed, add accounts under “Accounts → Add Account”.
Ledger supports thousands of cryptocurrencies through both native and third-party integrations.
5. Secure Your Ledger Device and Backup
Security is the foundation of Ledger’s technology. Your private keys are stored in a Secure Element chip — the same hardware used in passports and payment systems.
For maximum safety:
- Never share your 24-word recovery phrase online.
- Enable the PIN lock to protect against unauthorized physical access.
- Store your recovery sheet in multiple safe locations (preferably fireproof or waterproof).
- Consider a Ledger Nano X if you need Bluetooth connectivity with mobile devices.
6. Manage, Swap, and Stake Crypto in Ledger Live
Once your accounts are set up, you can fully manage your assets in Ledger Live. The intuitive interface makes it easy to:
- View portfolio balances and price changes
- Send and receive crypto securely
- Swap assets instantly via trusted partners
- Stake coins like ETH, ATOM, or SOL to earn passive income
- Buy crypto with fiat through Ledger’s verified exchange partners
Every transaction you make must be physically confirmed on your Ledger device — ensuring no unauthorized actions can occur from malware or phishing attacks.
7. Troubleshooting & Firmware Updates
Keep your device and Ledger Live app up to date. Firmware updates ensure optimal performance and security.
How to update:
- Open Ledger Live and navigate to My Ledger.
- Connect and unlock your device.
- If an update is available, click “Update firmware” and follow the prompts.
If you encounter issues, check support.ledger.com for troubleshooting guides or contact the official support team.
8. Advanced Tips for Power Users
For experienced users managing large portfolios or multiple wallets, Ledger offers several advanced features:
- Ledger Live Developer Mode: Access experimental crypto apps.
- Third-party wallet compatibility: Connect with MetaMask, Electrum, or Yoroi for advanced management.
- Custom derivation paths: Useful for developers and institutional users.
- Multiple devices: Use one for daily transactions and another for long-term storage.
These options allow flexibility without compromising security.
9. Best Practices for Long-Term Safety
Treat your Ledger wallet like the vault for your digital wealth. Long-term crypto holders should adopt strict self-custody and backup habits:
- Perform periodic portfolio checks in Ledger Live.
- Backup recovery phrases offline, in separate geographical locations.
- Never type your recovery words on any computer or mobile device.
- Beware of fake websites or support scams imitating ledger.com.
- Use a strong, unique password for your Ledger Live app.
Ledger continuously enhances its ecosystem to meet evolving security standards — keeping your crypto safe and accessible only to you.
10. Your Next Step — Start Managing Crypto Safely
You are now ready to explore the full power of self-custody. With your Ledger device properly set up, you can confidently buy, store, and grow your crypto portfolio while maintaining full control of your private keys.
Visit the official guide anytime at ledger.com/start™ for updated instructions, firmware releases, or new crypto integrations.
Remember: your crypto security begins and ends with you. Stay informed, stay cautious, and always use official Ledger resources.