Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started
Welcome to the official Ledger® getting started guide. If you’ve just purchased a Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X, this page will help you begin the setup process safely and confidently. This step-by-step guide ensures your device is genuine and your crypto is secured from day one. Everything shared here aligns with the setup experience at Ledger.com/Start® — the trusted onboarding point for Ledger users worldwide.
Why Ledger®?
Ledger® hardware wallets offer industry-leading security for managing cryptocurrencies. Your private keys never leave the device, keeping them offline and out of reach from hackers. Combined with the Ledger Live app, Ledger provides a secure yet user-friendly way to buy, sell, send, and receive crypto.
Step 1: Unbox and Verify
Start by carefully unboxing your Ledger device. It should include:
- Ledger Nano S Plus or Nano X device
- USB cable
- 3 blank recovery phrase sheets
- Instructions & safety guide
Make sure the box is sealed and has not been tampered with. Ledger devices are never shipped with pre-set PINs or recovery phrases. If yours has, do not use it.
Step 2: Visit the Official Setup Page
Open your browser and manually enter the official URL to begin: Ledger dot com slash start (Ledger.com/Start®). This ensures you're not redirected to a fake site. From there, download the latest version of Ledger Live — the all-in-one app that connects your hardware wallet to your computer or mobile device.
Step 3: Install Ledger Live
Install Ledger Live on your desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux) or mobile device (iOS, Android). Open the app and click “Get Started.” Follow the prompts to choose your device model and verify the device’s authenticity using Ledger’s secure check.
Step 4: Set Up as a New Device
Plug in your Ledger wallet. On the device, select "Set up as new device." You’ll be asked to:
- Create a secure 4- to 8-digit PIN
- Confirm your PIN
This PIN protects your device from unauthorized access.
Step 5: Backup Your 24-Word Recovery Phrase
The Ledger will now display your 24-word recovery phrase — your ultimate backup. Write it down exactly as shown on one of the blank recovery sheets provided. Never store this phrase digitally. This is your only way to recover your funds if your device is lost or damaged.
Step 6: Confirm Your Recovery Phrase
The device will ask you to confirm a few random words from your 24-word phrase to ensure you’ve written it down correctly. Complete this step carefully. If your phrase is incorrect, you won’t be able to recover your assets later.
Step 7: Access Ledger Live & Install Apps
Back in Ledger Live, navigate to “My Ledger.” Unlock your device with your PIN and allow the connection. You can now install apps for each cryptocurrency you want to manage — for example, Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Solana. Each crypto asset requires its own app installed on the device.
Step 8: Add Accounts
Once the apps are installed, go to the “Accounts” section in Ledger Live. Click “Add Account,” choose the crypto you installed, and confirm through your device. Your wallet is now fully set up and ready to receive, store, or send funds.
Step 9: Receive and Send Crypto Safely
To receive crypto, click “Receive” in Ledger Live, select the account, and verify the address on your device. This protects you from any malware that could try to change your address. For sending, enter the recipient address and confirm the transaction both in Ledger Live and on your device screen.
Security Tips
- Only use Ledger Live from the official website
- Never share your recovery phrase
- Beware of phishing emails or fake Ledger support
- Keep your firmware and app versions updated
Restoring Your Wallet
If your Ledger is lost or reset, you can restore your crypto on a new Ledger device using your 24-word recovery phrase. Choose “Restore from recovery phrase” during setup and carefully input your words.
Need Help?
For troubleshooting, consult the Help section in Ledger Live or search the official Ledger support center. Remember, Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase and does not offer phone support.
Conclusion
Ledger makes securing crypto simple. With your device set up, recovery phrase stored, and apps installed, you’re in full control of your assets. Follow the best practices from Ledger.com/Start® and enjoy the confidence of self-custody. Stay safe, stay informed, and stay in control with Ledger®.