Welcome to your complete guide to getting started with Ledger — the most trusted hardware wallet for securing your cryptocurrency. Whether you own Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other digital assets, Ledger.com/start is the official and safest place to begin your setup journey. This guide walks you through everything you need to know — from unboxing your device to securing your first crypto transaction.
1. What Is Ledger?
Ledger is a leading provider of hardware wallets — physical devices that safely store your cryptocurrency private keys offline. Unlike software wallets or exchanges, a hardware wallet like the Ledger Nano X or Ledger Nano S Plus keeps your crypto protected from online threats such as hackers, malware, and phishing attacks.
2. Visit the Official Start Page
To begin, always use the official link: https://www.ledger.com/start. This page ensures you’re guided through a safe and verified setup process directly from Ledger. Avoid any third-party sites, as they may host counterfeit software or phishing attempts.
3. Unbox Your Ledger Device
Inside your Ledger box, you’ll find:
- Your Ledger hardware wallet (Nano X or Nano S Plus)
- A USB cable
- Recovery sheets for your secret recovery phrase
- Quick start guide and documentation
Before connecting your Ledger, check that the package is sealed and undamaged. Ledger devices come with a secure chip that ensures authenticity — do not use any device that looks tampered with.
4. Install Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the official companion app that allows you to manage your crypto assets. You can download it for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, or iOS directly from the start page. Follow these steps:
- Go to Ledger.com/start.
- Download the correct version of Ledger Live for your device.
- Install and open Ledger Live on your computer or smartphone.
5. Set Up Your Ledger Device
When you first power on your Ledger wallet, it will guide you through initialization:
- Select “Set up as new device.”
- Create a secure PIN code — this protects access to your device.
- Write down your 24-word recovery phrase on the provided recovery sheet. This phrase is the only way to restore your crypto if your device is lost or damaged. Never share it online or with anyone.
Store the recovery phrase in a safe, offline location. Ledger never asks for it and cannot recover it for you.
6. Connect Ledger Live and Add Accounts
Once your device is set up, open Ledger Live and connect your hardware wallet. The app will verify the connection and allow you to install different blockchain apps, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Solana. From there, you can add accounts and monitor your balances securely.
7. Receive and Send Crypto Securely
After setting up your accounts, you can start transferring funds:
- To receive crypto: Generate a receiving address in Ledger Live and confirm it on your device screen.
- To send crypto: Enter the recipient’s address, confirm the amount, and approve the transaction directly on your Ledger hardware wallet.
8. Stay Secure and Up to Date
Ledger frequently releases firmware and app updates to enhance security and performance. Always update through Ledger.com/start or within the Ledger Live app. Avoid connecting your wallet to untrusted computers or websites.
Final Thoughts
Getting started with Ledger is one of the most important steps in protecting your crypto. By following the official setup at Ledger.com/start, you ensure that your assets remain in your control and out of reach from cyber threats. Your private keys never leave the Ledger device, providing ultimate peace of mind for long-term crypto investors.