Setting up your Ledger hardware wallet is a crucial step toward taking full control of your cryptocurrency assets. Ledger provides a highly secure, offline method to store and manage your Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of other cryptocurrencies. Whether you’ve purchased a Ledger Nano X, Ledger Nano S Plus, or any other supported device, the official setup process begins at Ledger.com/Start.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process to help you securely initialize your device, set up your PIN and recovery phrase, install Ledger Live, and begin managing your digital assets with confidence.
Before we dive into setup, it's important to understand why a hardware wallet like Ledger is essential:
Navigate to Ledger.com/start in your web browser. This is the official starting point to ensure you:
⚠️ Important: Only use official Ledger websites. Avoid using links from third-party sources or search engines that might redirect you to fake or phishing websites.
Carefully unbox your Ledger wallet. Inside, you should find:
Make sure the anti-tamper seal is not broken. If it appears damaged or missing, do not use the device and contact Ledger support immediately.
Ledger Live is the companion software that allows you to manage your crypto portfolio. Here's how to install it:
For Desktop:
For Mobile (Nano X Only):
Once installed, open Ledger Live and click on “Get Started”.
When prompted, choose “Set up a new device”.
Then:
Now it’s time to initialize the hardware wallet.
Plug your Ledger device into your computer or power it on.
Steps on the device:
⚠️ Your PIN is your first line of defense—never share it.
Your Ledger will now display 24 words, one at a time. This is your recovery phrase, also known as a seed phrase.
🔐 Security Tip: Never store your recovery phrase online or take a photo. If someone gains access to these words, they can access your funds.
Keep your recovery sheet:
Ledger Live will ask you to verify:
You’ll see a message in Ledger Live: “Your device is genuine” once verified. If not, stop and contact Ledger support.
Each cryptocurrency requires a specific app to be installed on your Ledger device.
To install apps:
To add accounts:
You’re now ready to send, receive, and manage crypto securely!
Ledger Live supports more than just asset storage. You can:
Buy Crypto:
Swap Tokens:
Stake Assets:
All transactions require confirmation on your Ledger device, ensuring maximum security.
Keep your device secure by updating firmware regularly.
To update:
🔄 Ledger never asks for your recovery phrase during updates. If prompted, it’s a scam.
If you lose your Ledger device or it gets damaged:
Your accounts and crypto will be fully restored.
IssueSolutionDevice not connectingTry another USB cable or port, restart Ledger LiveRecovery phrase mismatchCarefully recheck spelling and word orderCan’t install appsEnsure device firmware is up to date, uninstall unused apps if out of space“Device is not genuine” alertContact Ledger Support immediately
Once you’re familiar with basic functionality, explore:
These options allow for more control and privacy, ideal for advanced users.
Setting up your Ledger device via Ledger.com/Start is a critical first step in safeguarding your crypto journey. Ledger offers the gold standard in self-custody, giving you complete control, top-tier security, and peace of mind. With Ledger Live, managing your digital assets is not only safe but also seamless and user-friendly.
Whether you're a long-term HODLer, active trader, or DeFi enthusiast, Ledger’s ecosystem is designed to protect your freedom and digital wealth.
Made in Typedream