Ledger.com/Start® — Official Setup & Getting Started Guide

Why Start with Ledger?

Ledger hardware wallets are designed to protect your private keys using a dedicated Secure Element chip, isolating them from online attacks. By visiting the official Ledger.com/Start portal, you ensure your setup follows verified steps, minimizing risks from fake apps or phishing clones. Ledger Live, the companion app, lets you manage assets, stake crypto, and update firmware safely—all while your keys stay offline.

Step 1 — Download Ledger Live

Ledger Live is your gateway to crypto management. Follow these steps:

1. Go to Ledger.com/Start and choose your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, or iOS).
2. Download Ledger Live only from the official domain; avoid third-party sources.
3. Install and launch Ledger Live, then connect your Ledger Nano X or Nano S Plus.

The app will guide you through the rest of the initialization process.

Step 2 — Initialize Your Device

Once connected, your device will display options for new setup or restoration. Choose “Set up as new device” if this is your first time.

• Create a PIN code: This secures your device physically. Avoid easy sequences like 1234.
• Backup recovery phrase: Your 24-word recovery seed is your lifeline—write it on the recovery sheet and never store it digitally.
• Confirm seed words: The device will verify your phrase to ensure you backed it up correctly.

Keep your recovery sheet in a safe and fireproof location.

Step 3 — Install Coin Apps and Add Accounts

Within Ledger Live, navigate to the “Manager” tab. Here you can install apps for Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and hundreds of supported blockchains. Once installed, go to “Accounts” and select “Add Account.” Ledger Live syncs balances from the blockchain directly while keeping your private keys offline.

This modular approach ensures your Ledger device remains lightweight and only holds apps you actively use.

Step 4 — Sending & Receiving Crypto Safely

When sending funds, Ledger Live prompts the device to confirm every transaction detail—amount, destination address, and network fee. Verify this on your hardware screen before approving. For receiving crypto, use the “Receive” tab to display your verified address on the device and share it confidently.

Each signature is generated internally and never exposes your private key, even to the computer you're using.

Step 5 — Keep Firmware Updated

Firmware updates are crucial to Ledger’s long-term security. Ledger Live will notify you when updates are available. Always perform updates directly through the app and verify every confirmation message on your device screen.

Firmware updates often introduce new crypto integrations and improved performance while maintaining complete backward compatibility with your recovery phrase.

Security Principles & Best Practices

• Only download Ledger software from ledger.com.
• Never share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone—not even Ledger support.
• Always verify URLs and certificate locks before entering personal data.
• Store your recovery sheet in multiple safe places; use metal backup kits for durability.
• Activate “Ledger Stax” or Bluetooth features only when using trusted devices.

Security is not a one-time setup—it’s a continuous habit. Stay informed via the official Ledger Academy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I restore my wallet on another device? Yes. Use the same 24-word phrase to restore all your funds and accounts on a new Ledger device.

What happens if I forget my PIN? Reset the device and restore using your recovery phrase.

Is Ledger Live open source? Ledger Live’s core is closed-source, but critical components like apps and SDKs are open for community review.

Can I stake crypto from Ledger Live? Yes — staking is available for multiple assets, including Ethereum and Solana, with rewards managed securely on-device.