Introduction to Ledger and ledger.com/start
Ledger is one of the most trusted hardware wallet brands for securely storing your cryptocurrencies offline. Using ledger.com/start ensures you download the genuine software, get the latest firmware updates, and follow the official instructions to protect your assets. This guide will walk you through everything from unboxing to managing your coins safely.
Step 1: Unbox and Verify Your Ledger Device
- Check the package: When you receive your Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Nano S, inspect the box. It should be sealed properly and show no signs of tampering. Ledger devices don’t come with a pre-set PIN or recovery phrase — this is a red flag if you find one included.
- What’s in the box: Inside, you should find:
- The Ledger hardware wallet.
- A USB cable.
- Recovery sheets.
- A keychain or lanyard (depending on your model).
- Instruction card and stickers.
- Verify authenticity: Go to ledger.com/start and follow the instructions to verify that your device is genuine. Ledger’s Secure Element chip will run an authenticity check during the initial setup via Ledger Live.
Step 2: Visit ledger.com/start and Download Ledger Live
- Open your browser and go to ledger.com/start.
- Click “Download Ledger Live.” Ledger Live is the official companion app to manage your crypto.
- Download the version for your operating system — Windows, Mac, or Linux.
- Install Ledger Live by following your system’s instructions.
Tip: Always download Ledger Live directly from the official site to avoid fake software that could steal your funds.
Step 3: Install and Launch Ledger Live
- Open Ledger Live and choose “Get Started.”
- Select your Ledger device model (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Nano S).
- Click “Initialize as new device” if your device is brand new.
If you already have a recovery phrase and are restoring a wallet, choose “Restore from recovery phrase.” - Follow the on-screen prompts.
Step 4: Set Up Your Ledger Device
- Connect your device: Plug your Ledger device into your computer using the USB cable. For the Nano X, you can also use Bluetooth with a mobile device.
- Turn it on: Hold the buttons as shown on the screen to power it up.
- Choose PIN code: Use the buttons to set a secure PIN code (4–8 digits). This protects your device if it’s lost or stolen.
- Confirm the PIN by re-entering it.
- Write down your recovery phrase: Your Ledger will now generate a 24-word recovery phrase. This is your backup — anyone with this phrase can access your crypto, so:
- Write the words down in the correct order on the provided recovery sheet.
- Never store it digitally (photos, cloud, email).
- Double-check each word during the confirmation step.
Step 5: Confirm Your Recovery Phrase
Ledger will ask you to confirm your 24-word phrase by selecting words in order. This ensures you wrote it down correctly.
- Important: Never share your recovery phrase with anyone. Ledger will never ask you for it.
- Store your recovery sheet in a fireproof safe or an offline secure location.
Step 6: Complete the Security Checklist
Back on Ledger Live, you’ll be asked to complete a quick checklist to verify:
- You chose a PIN yourself.
- You wrote down the recovery phrase and kept it safe.
- You understand Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase.
Pass this checklist to proceed.
Step 7: Update Firmware (If Needed)
Once your device is set up, Ledger Live will check if your device firmware is up to date:
- If an update is needed, follow the prompts.
- Keep your device connected during the update.
- Never disconnect the device while updating firmware.
Step 8: Add Crypto Accounts
Now you’re ready to manage your assets!
- In Ledger Live, go to “Accounts” and click “Add account.”
- Choose the crypto you want to add (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana).
- Install the corresponding app on your device:
- Ledger uses apps for each supported coin.
- Ledger Live will guide you through installing apps on your device.
- Once the app is installed, Ledger Live will sync and show your wallet address.
Step 9: Receive Crypto to Your Ledger
- Click “Receive” in Ledger Live.
- Select the account you want to receive crypto into.
- Connect your device and open the relevant crypto app.
- Ledger Live will display your public address.
- Verify the address on your device screen — make sure the address matches.
- Copy the address and use it to receive funds from an exchange or another wallet.
Tip: Always send a small test amount first when transferring crypto for the first time.
Step 10: Send Crypto Safely
When you want to send crypto:
- Click “Send” in Ledger Live.
- Enter the recipient’s address and amount.
- Connect your device and approve the transaction by verifying the address and amount on the device screen.
- Confirm by pressing both buttons.
This protects you from malware that might try to change the address.
Step 11: Keep Ledger Live Secure
- Enable password lock for your Ledger Live app.
- Keep your device’s firmware and Ledger Live updated.
- Double-check addresses on your device every time.
- Never share your recovery phrase — not even with Ledger support.
Step 12: Back Up and Store Securely
Your hardware wallet and PIN protect your crypto, but your recovery phrase is the ultimate key. Keep multiple copies of your recovery phrase in secure, separate locations — preferably offline, in a safe or security deposit box. Some users opt for metal backup plates to protect against fire or water damage.
Step 13: Use Ledger’s Learning Resources
Ledger provides excellent security tips, coin-specific guides, and video tutorials:
- Visit ledger.com/academy
- Subscribe to Ledger’s official updates for security news.
- Join the Ledger community to stay informed.
Closing Tips
✅ Buy your Ledger only from ledger.com or trusted resellers — never buy second-hand.
✅ Always verify your device’s authenticity during setup.
✅ Triple-check your recovery phrase and keep it safe.
✅ Never share your PIN or recovery phrase.
✅ Stay alert for phishing scams — Ledger will never ask for your phrase.