Ledger.com/Start — Quick, Secure Setup for Your Ledger Hardware Wallet

Why Ledger?

Ledger hardware wallets store private keys in a secure, tamper-resistant environment separated from your online devices. That separation prevents remote attackers and malware on your computer or phone from accessing your funds. Ledger combines certified secure hardware with easy-to-use software to give both newcomers and power users a reliable way to control their crypto.

What You’ll Need Before You Start

• Your unopened Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or similar model).
• A computer or smartphone with a USB port (or Bluetooth for supported devices).
• An internet connection to download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website.
• Secure, private place to write down your recovery phrase — never store it digitally.

Step-by-Step: Initialize Your Ledger Device

1. Go to ledger.com/start on a trusted device. Download Ledger Live only from the official site. Confirm the URL and SSL certificate before downloading any software.
2. Open the box and power on the device. Follow on-screen prompts displayed by the device itself. Never trust setup instructions shown only on a computer screen — rely on the device screen for critical confirmations.
3. Create a new wallet on the device. When the Ledger prompts, choose Create a new wallet rather than Restore. The device will generate a recovery phrase (24 words by default).
4. Write down the recovery phrase exactly as shown. Use the recovery sheet included in the box or a dedicated metal backup. Confirm each word in the order shown. Never photograph or store the phrase on any connected device or cloud service.
5. Set a PIN code on the device. Choose a PIN you can remember but that isn’t easy to guess. The PIN protects your device if it’s lost or stolen. After a few incorrect PIN attempts the device will wipe — this is expected behavior for security.
6. Install Ledger Live and add accounts. Open Ledger Live, complete the initial checks, and add cryptocurrency accounts by selecting the assets you want to use. Ledger Live will communicate with your device to verify that it’s genuine and properly initialized.

Important: Ledger support will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase. Never enter the phrase on a website, app, or message — only confirm it on your Ledger device when prompted during setup or recovery.

How to Recover an Existing Wallet

If you already have a recovery phrase from another hardware wallet or an earlier Ledger device, choose Restore when the Ledger device offers setup options. Enter the recovery phrase exactly as originally written. After recovery, immediately verify account balances and transaction history in Ledger Live.

Everyday Use: Sending & Receiving Crypto

Use Ledger Live for portfolio overview, sending and receiving assets, and installing additional apps on your device. For every transaction:

• Compose the transaction in Ledger Live (or a compatible third-party app).
• Review the transaction details on your computer or phone.
• Confirm the transaction amount and recipient on the physical Ledger device — always verify the recipient address on the device screen.

Never approve a transaction that shows an unexpected amount or recipient. If something looks wrong, reject and investigate before proceeding.

Security Best Practices

1. Keep your recovery phrase offline and private. Prefer a fireproof, corrosion-resistant metal backup for long-term storage.
2. Update firmware and Ledger Live regularly. Official updates include security fixes and new features. Only install updates from Ledger Live and the Ledger website.
3. Beware of phishing. Attackers create fake sites and messages that mimic Ledger. Always check the domain and never follow links in unsolicited messages.
4. Use a passphrase if you need extra protection. Advanced users can add a passphrase to create an additional secret key. Note: losing the passphrase means permanent loss of access to that derived wallet.
5. Limit device exposure. Only connect your Ledger to computers and phones you control. Avoid using shared public machines for sensitive actions.

Who Should Use Ledger?

Ledger is built for anyone who wants true custody of their crypto: long-term holders, active traders who move assets between exchanges and cold storage, developers holding tokens, and institutions requiring hardware protection. If you prioritize ownership and security over custodial convenience, a hardware wallet like Ledger is the standard approach.

Common Questions (Quick FAQ)

Need Help?

If you encounter issues during setup, visit ledger.com/start for official guides, video walkthroughs, and troubleshooting tools. For account- or device-specific problems, use Ledger’s official support channels — never disclose your recovery phrase in any message or form.