Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® — Getting Started

Welcome to the Official Ledger® setup portal. Learn how to securely set up your Ledger Nano X or Ledger Nano S Plus hardware wallet using Ledger Live and protect your cryptocurrency assets like never before.

Welcome to Ledger — The Future of Self-Custody

In today’s fast-evolving world of cryptocurrency, true ownership begins with security. Ledger offers industry-leading hardware wallets that keep your private keys offline, out of the reach of hackers, and entirely in your control.

The setup process begins at Ledger.com/Start — the only official starting point for initializing your device. This guide will walk you through everything: unboxing, installing Ledger Live, creating your recovery phrase, and managing your assets safely.

By the end of this walkthrough, you’ll not only have a functioning wallet but also the peace of mind that your digital wealth is protected by one of the most secure hardware systems in the blockchain space.

Step 1: Access the Official Site — Ledger.com/Start®

Begin your journey by visiting Ledger.com/Start. This is the official Ledger portal for device setup and software downloads. Never use third-party links or “lookalike” domains, as they may lead to phishing pages.

Once you’re on the site, you’ll see guided steps tailored for your specific device—whether it’s the Ledger Nano X (Bluetooth-enabled) or Ledger Nano S Plus (USB-powered).

The site provides verified downloads for Ledger Live and the latest firmware updates, ensuring you’re always using legitimate, up-to-date software.

Step 2: Unbox and Inspect Your Ledger Wallet

When your Ledger device arrives, take a moment to inspect the packaging carefully. Each genuine Ledger box should be sealed, untampered, and include the following items:

If you notice broken seals, pre-filled recovery sheets, or anything suspicious, stop immediately and contact Ledger Support. Each recovery phrase must be generated freshly by your device only.

Step 3: Download Ledger Live — The Official Companion App

Ledger Live is the all-in-one control center for your hardware wallet. It allows you to manage over 5,500 cryptocurrencies securely from your desktop or mobile device. Download it directly from:

https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live

Ledger Live is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. Through the app, you can:

Always verify the software signature before installing, ensuring authenticity and preventing tampering.

Step 4: Initialize Your Device

Connect your Ledger via USB or Bluetooth. Follow the on-screen instructions displayed both on the device and within Ledger Live:

  1. Select “Set up as new device”.
  2. Create a secure PIN code (4–8 digits).
  3. Write down your 24-word recovery phrase exactly as shown.

This phrase is your ultimate backup. It’s the only way to recover your funds if your device is lost, damaged, or stolen. Store it offline — never take photos, screenshots, or save it on digital devices.

Ledger’s technology ensures your private keys never leave the device, even during transactions. Every signature is performed inside the Secure Element, a certified chip designed to resist physical and digital attacks.

Step 5: Verify and Protect Your Recovery Phrase

Before continuing, your Ledger will ask you to confirm several random words from your 24-word seed phrase. This step ensures you wrote them down correctly.

Consider storing your phrase in a fireproof metal backup like Ledger Cryptosteel Capsule for extra resilience. Remember — no one, including Ledger employees, will ever ask for this phrase. If someone does, it’s a scam.

Step 6: Install Cryptocurrency Apps

Using Ledger Live, navigate to the “My Ledger” tab. You can install apps for each cryptocurrency you plan to manage — such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Cardano, Solana, or XRP. Each crypto requires its dedicated app on your device.

After installation, create accounts in Ledger Live to track balances, view transactions, and perform transfers. Each account syncs directly with the blockchain, ensuring transparent and verifiable information.

Step 7: Sending and Receiving Crypto Safely

Receiving funds:

  1. Open Ledger Live and select your desired account.
  2. Click “Receive”.
  3. Verify that the receiving address on your computer matches what is shown on your Ledger screen.
  4. Copy the verified address and share it with the sender.

Sending funds:

  1. Select “Send” in Ledger Live.
  2. Enter the recipient’s wallet address and amount.
  3. Double-check the transaction details on your Ledger device screen.
  4. Approve the transaction using the physical buttons on your Ledger.

Always confirm every transaction on your hardware device’s display — never trust your computer screen alone. This physical confirmation is what makes Ledger inherently secure.

Step 8: Keep Your Device Firmware Up-to-Date

Ledger continuously enhances its devices with firmware updates to improve performance and patch vulnerabilities. When an update becomes available, Ledger Live will notify you. Follow the instructions carefully to complete the upgrade securely.

Firmware files should never be downloaded from unofficial websites. Updates are exclusively distributed via Ledger Live, guaranteeing authenticity.

Ledger Security Essentials

These habits ensure your crypto assets remain fully protected against phishing, malware, and social engineering attacks.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Ledger Live used for?

Ledger Live is the official management app for your Ledger wallet. It enables you to track balances, send or receive crypto, and install blockchain apps securely.

2. Can I recover my wallet if I lose my device?

Yes. Simply obtain a new Ledger device, select “Restore from recovery phrase,” and input your 24 words. Your assets will be fully restored on the blockchain.

3. Is Ledger compatible with DeFi platforms?

Absolutely. Ledger integrates with numerous DeFi platforms via WalletConnect and browser extensions, letting you interact with decentralized apps securely while keeping your keys offline.

4. What’s the difference between Nano S Plus and Nano X?

The Nano X includes Bluetooth support and a larger screen, ideal for mobile users. The Nano S Plus is USB-only, offering similar functionality at a lower price.

5. How do I know if my Ledger is genuine?

All new Ledger devices perform an authenticity check through Ledger Live upon first connection. This ensures the firmware is verified and the device hasn’t been tampered with.

Own Your Crypto Future

Setting up your Ledger wallet through Ledger.com/Start is more than a setup process—it’s a declaration of financial independence. With your private keys secured offline, you reclaim full control of your digital wealth.

Every day, millions of people rely on Ledger’s technology to safeguard their cryptocurrencies. Whether you’re a beginner exploring Bitcoin for the first time or an advanced investor managing a diverse portfolio, your Ledger wallet is the key to true ownership.

Take the next step toward complete crypto sovereignty—start your secure journey today at Ledger.com/Start.