Official Site | Ledger.com/Start® | | Getting started

Welcome to the world of secure crypto ownership. If you’ve just received your Ledger hardware wallet, congratulations — you’re now taking the most important step toward safeguarding your digital assets from online threats. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to get started using your Ledger wallet, step by step.

Ledger offers two popular models: the Ledger Nano S Plus and the Ledger Nano X. Both provide top-notch security and support for thousands of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, XRP, and many more.

Let’s dive into setting it up the right way, safely and confidently.

Step 1: Visit the Official Ledger Start Page

Your journey begins at the official onboarding portal: Ledger.com/Start.

This page ensures you’re following the most up-to-date and secure instructions directly from Ledger. It helps protect you from phishing websites and fake products. Always double-check the URL and never trust unofficial sources.

Step 2: Download Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official app used to set up, manage, and interact with your hardware wallet. It’s available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.

  1. On Ledger.com/Start, click on “Download Ledger Live.”

  2. Choose the correct version for your operating system.

  3. Install the app, open it, and click “Get Started.”

Ledger Live will guide you through the process — from device setup to adding crypto accounts.

Step 3: Choose Your Path

You’ll be asked whether you’re:

  • Setting up a new device

  • Restoring an existing wallet

  • Connecting a device you already set up

Choose “Set up a new device” if you’re starting fresh.

Now connect your Ledger Nano via USB cable. If you’re using the Nano X, you also have Bluetooth options for mobile use.

Step 4: Secure Your Device

Security is the foundation of Ledger. During setup, you’ll take the following key steps:

1. Set Up a PIN Code

You’ll be asked to create a 4 to 8-digit PIN. This PIN is required every time you use your device.

  • Don’t reuse a PIN from your phone or bank card.

  • Memorize it or store it in a secure password manager.

2. Write Down Your Recovery Phrase

Your Ledger will display 24 recovery words. This is your one and only backup. It allows you to recover your funds if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged.

  • Write down the words in order using the recovery sheet provided.

  • Never take a photo or store them digitally.

  • Keep the sheet in a safe, offline place (preferably fireproof/waterproof).

⚠️ If anyone else gets access to your 24 words, they can steal your crypto.

Step 5: Confirm Your Recovery Phrase

To ensure you wrote it down correctly, the device will ask you to confirm a few of the words in sequence.

Only after completing this step is your wallet initialized and secure.

Congratulations! You now own a cold-storage crypto vault.

Step 6: Verify Device Authenticity

Ledger Live will now check if your device is genuine and not tampered with. This verification uses a secure element chip and Ledger’s attestation protocol.

If your device fails the authenticity check — stop. Contact Ledger support immediately.

Step 7: Add Crypto Accounts

You’re now ready to add accounts to manage different cryptocurrencies. In Ledger Live:

  1. Click “Add Account.”

  2. Select the crypto asset (like Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.).

  3. The app will install the appropriate app onto your Ledger device.

  4. Once added, you can view balances and receive addresses.

Repeat this process for any number of coins you wish to manage.

Step 8: Send and Receive Crypto

With your wallet initialized and accounts added, you can now start using your Ledger!

To Receive:

  1. Select a crypto account (e.g., Ethereum).

  2. Click “Receive.”

  3. Verify the address displayed in Ledger Live matches the one shown on your device.

  4. Share the address with the sender or use it to transfer crypto from an exchange.

To Send:

  1. Click “Send” and enter the recipient’s address and amount.

  2. Confirm and verify the transaction on your Ledger device.

  3. Approve the transaction only if the details match.

Only transactions confirmed on your device can be broadcasted. This is what keeps your crypto secure.

Step 9: Explore Advanced Features

Ledger isn’t just for storing Bitcoin. Once comfortable, explore these powerful features:

  • Stake crypto like Ethereum, Polkadot, or Tezos directly in Ledger Live.

  • Buy and swap assets using Ledger Live’s integrated partners.

  • Use Ledger with MetaMask to access DeFi, NFTs, and Web3.

  • Connect to wallets like Rabby, Keplr, or MyEtherWallet for specialized ecosystems.

Step 10: Keep Everything Updated

Ledger regularly releases:

  • Firmware updates to enhance security

  • Ledger Live updates to support new coins

  • App updates for better performance

Be sure to:

  • Enable notifications in Ledger Live

  • Only install updates from Ledger Live

  • Verify updates on the device before confirming

Staying updated means staying protected.

Security Tips for Long-Term Use

  • Never share your 24 words, not even with “Ledger support.”

  • Beware of phishing emails or fake update websites.

  • Always double-check URLs before connecting your device.

  • Use a second Ledger as a backup if managing large amounts.

For advanced protection, consider enabling passphrase wallets or using multi-signature setups with third-party apps.