Welcome to Ledger Start

Set up your hardware wallet and secure your crypto with confidence.

1. Unbox and Connect Your Ledger Device

Begin your journey by unboxing your Ledger device — whether it’s the Nano X, Nano S Plus, or any other model. Connect it to your computer using the provided cable. When prompted, download and install the Ledger Live application. This app will guide you through setup, firmware updates, and wallet creation.

2. Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live acts as the interface between your hardware wallet and the blockchain networks you interact with. Through it, you can install apps for each supported cryptocurrency, view balances, and securely send or receive funds. Always download it from the official ledger.com to avoid phishing scams.

3. Create or Restore a Wallet

During setup, you’ll be given two options — create a new wallet or restore an existing one. If you’re creating a new wallet, your device will generate a unique recovery seed phrase (usually 24 words). Write it down on paper and store it offline. Never share or photograph it, as it grants full control over your funds.

4. Set a Secure PIN and Passphrase

After generating your seed phrase, set a strong PIN directly on your Ledger device. This ensures that even if someone physically accesses your device, they cannot use it without your PIN. For additional privacy, enable the optional passphrase feature to create a hidden wallet accessible only with that phrase.

5. Install Crypto Apps

Open Ledger Live, navigate to the “My Ledger” tab, and install apps for each cryptocurrency you plan to manage. The apps act as gateways for your hardware device to communicate with various blockchains. Always ensure your device firmware is up to date before installing new apps.

6. Verify and Send Transactions Securely

Whenever you send cryptocurrency, verify the address and amount displayed on your Ledger screen. Confirm the transaction only after ensuring all details are correct. This step guarantees that your funds go to the intended recipient, preventing malware or clipboard hijacking attacks.

7. Manage Portfolio in Ledger Live

Ledger Live provides a unified dashboard showing your portfolio balance, transaction history, and asset performance. You can track real-time prices, stake certain cryptocurrencies, and swap tokens within the app — all while maintaining full control of your private keys on your device.

8. Secure Your Recovery Phrase

Your 24-word recovery phrase is the most critical component of your wallet’s security. Store it in multiple offline locations, ideally using metal seed storage or fireproof safes. Never input your recovery phrase on any website or app — only into your Ledger device if you’re performing a recovery.

9. Stay Updated and Stay Safe

Security threats evolve constantly. Keep your Ledger Live and device firmware updated, subscribe to official communications, and never engage with unsolicited support messages claiming to be from Ledger. The company will never ask for your recovery phrase or private keys.

10. Continue Your Crypto Journey

Once your Ledger device is configured, explore features like staking, DeFi integrations, and portfolio analytics. With a combination of physical security and robust software tools, you gain full sovereignty over your digital assets. Every transaction becomes a conscious, verified action made securely from your hardware wallet.