Ledger.com/Start® | Secure Setup Guide for New Users

Welcome to Ledger.com/Start®

Ledger hardware wallets offer one of the most secure ways to protect your cryptocurrency. By storing your private keys offline, your digital assets remain safe from online hacks, phishing, and malware. This guide will help new users set up their Ledger device from scratch, configure Ledger Live, and begin managing their crypto securely.

Whether you have a Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, or another Ledger model, the setup process is simple — just follow along carefully. Let’s begin.

Step 1: Unbox and Verify Your Ledger Device

Start by unboxing your Ledger device. Every genuine Ledger wallet is sealed, brand new, and shipped from Ledger’s secure facilities. Inside your box, you should find:

Your Ledger hardware wallet device
A USB cable
Instruction leaflet
Recovery phrase cards (blank)
Ledger keychain or accessories (optional)

Important: If your device was preconfigured, has a recovery phrase already written, or appears tampered with, do not use it. Contact Ledger Support immediately at support.ledger.com.

Ledger devices are never pre-initialized — you must create your own PIN and recovery phrase during setup.

Step 2: Download and Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official companion app that allows you to manage your crypto portfolios, install coin apps, and update firmware. To install it safely:

Visit the official website: ledger.com/ledger-live.
Select your platform (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, or iOS).
Download and install the application following your OS prompts.
Open Ledger Live, agree to the terms, and proceed to setup.

Tip: Never download Ledger Live from any unofficial source or ad link. Bookmark the official page for future updates.

Step 3: Connect and Initialize Your Ledger Device

Once Ledger Live is ready, connect your Ledger device using the provided USB cable. You’ll see the welcome screen on your Ledger. Follow these steps carefully:

Select “Set up as new device”.
Choose a secure 4–8 digit PIN code using the buttons on your Ledger device.
Confirm the PIN by re-entering it.

Your device is now initializing. The next step — creating your recovery phrase — is the most critical part of your security.

Step 4: Write Down Your 24-Word Recovery Phrase

Your recovery phrase is your ultimate backup. If your Ledger is lost, damaged, or stolen, your funds can be recovered only with this phrase. Here’s what to do:

Use the blank recovery card provided in the box.
Write down each of the 24 words in the exact order they appear on your device.
Double-check your spelling and numbering.

Security Reminder: Never take a photo or store your recovery phrase digitally. Keep it offline and in a safe, private location such as a safe deposit box or fireproof safe.

Ledger will prompt you to confirm your 24 words to ensure accuracy. Once confirmed, your wallet is fully initialized.

Step 5: Pair Ledger Live with Your Device

Return to Ledger Live and follow on-screen instructions to pair your device. The app will confirm that your Ledger is genuine via a secure connection. This prevents counterfeit or compromised devices from being used.

Connect your device and unlock it using your PIN.
Allow Ledger Live to perform the authenticity check.
Once verified, proceed to the main dashboard.

Did you know? Ledger devices use a secure chip certified to the highest security standards (CC EAL5+), the same level used in passports and credit cards.

Step 6: Install Cryptocurrency Apps

Each blockchain (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.) requires its own app to interact with the Ledger device. To install apps:

In Ledger Live, navigate to the Manager tab.
Approve the connection on your device when prompted.
Find the cryptocurrency app you wish to install (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
Click Install and wait for confirmation on the device screen.

You can install multiple apps depending on your device’s memory. The Nano X supports more apps simultaneously than the Nano S Plus.

Step 7: Add Accounts to Ledger Live

Once your apps are installed, add accounts so Ledger Live can track balances and transactions securely:

Click Accounts → Add Account in Ledger Live.
Select the cryptocurrency corresponding to your installed app.
Connect your device, open the coin app, and confirm address creation.

Note: Your private keys never leave your device. Ledger Live only displays public data from the blockchain.

Step 8: Receive and Send Crypto Securely

Now that your accounts are ready, you can transfer assets:

Receiving Crypto

Open Ledger Live and go to Receive.
Select the account and verify the address on your Ledger device.
Copy the verified address and use it to receive funds safely.

Sending Crypto

Select Send in Ledger Live.
Paste the recipient’s address and enter the amount.
Verify the address and details on your Ledger device before confirming.

Be cautious: Always verify the receiving address on your Ledger screen. Phishing malware can alter clipboard text on your computer.

Step 9: Update Firmware and Apps Regularly

Keeping your Ledger up to date ensures maximum protection against vulnerabilities and adds support for new coins.

In Ledger Live, navigate to Manager.
If an update is available, follow the guided process.
Ensure your recovery phrase is safely stored before starting an update.
After updating, reinstall any necessary apps if prompted.

Tip: Updates do not affect your funds or accounts — all assets remain safely linked to your recovery phrase.

Step 10: Keep Your Setup Secure

Ledger devices are highly secure, but personal vigilance is equally important. Follow these best practices:

Store your device and recovery phrase separately.
Use a strong password for your computer or smartphone.
Enable 2FA on all crypto-related accounts.
Do not share your screen or enter sensitive data on untrusted devices.

Security Tip: Treat your Ledger like your bank vault — if anyone gains access to your 24-word phrase, they control your funds.

Step 11: Access Additional Ledger Resources

To expand your knowledge and explore more features, Ledger offers educational resources and tools:

Ledger Academy — Learn crypto basics, blockchain technology, and safety tips.
Ledger Support — Get troubleshooting help and official updates.
Ledger Status Page — Check real-time service availability.
Follow @Ledger for the latest announcements and security alerts.

Step 12: Recovering Your Ledger Wallet (If Needed)

If you lose your device or need to restore your wallet on a new Ledger, your recovery phrase allows complete restoration:

Get a new Ledger device.
Choose Restore from recovery phrase during setup.
Enter each of your 24 words carefully using the device buttons.
Set a new PIN, and your crypto accounts will reappear once connected to Ledger Live.

Warning: Only enter your recovery phrase on a genuine Ledger device — never into a website, computer, or app.

Conclusion: Take Control of Your Digital Assets

Congratulations — you’ve completed your Ledger setup! You now have full control of your crypto assets with world-class security. Ledger’s technology ensures your private keys never leave your device, giving you peace of mind against online threats.

Remember to keep your firmware updated, store your recovery phrase securely, and always use official Ledger resources. With Ledger.com/Start®, you’re equipped to protect your financial future safely and confidently.

Start exploring more ways to grow your portfolio — from staking to DeFi — all managed securely through your Ledger Live dashboard.