Welcome to Ledger.com/start — the official and trusted guide to help you set up and secure your Ledger® hardware wallet. Whether you’re using the Ledger Nano X, Ledger Nano S Plus, or Ledger Stax, this page will walk you through the steps to safely start your device and take control of your digital assets.
1. Why Use a Ledger Hardware Wallet?
Ledger wallets are designed to secure your cryptocurrency by keeping your private keys offline. This ensures that even if your computer or smartphone is compromised, your crypto remains safe. Ledger devices use a certified Secure Element (SE) chip — the same technology found in passports and payment cards — to safeguard your sensitive information from digital threats.
2. Check Authenticity Before Starting
To guarantee your security, make sure your device is genuine and unopened:
- Purchase only from the official Ledger website or authorized partners.
- Never use a device that already contains a recovery phrase.
- Inspect the packaging to ensure it hasn’t been tampered with.
Your Ledger wallet should always generate its own 24-word recovery phrase during setup. If your device came with a pre-filled recovery sheet, do not use it.
3. Go to Ledger.com/start
Visit Ledger.com/start to download Ledger Live — the official app used to initialize your device, install crypto apps, and manage your portfolio securely. Ledger Live is available on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.
4. Setting Up Your Ledger Device
Follow these simple steps to get started:
- Connect your device using the supplied USB cable (or Bluetooth for Nano X).
- Power on the device and choose “Set up as new device.”
- Select a PIN code (between 4–8 digits) and confirm it on your device.
- Write down your 24-word recovery phrase exactly as shown. This phrase is your backup and should be stored offline in a safe place.
- Verify your recovery phrase on the device to complete the initialization.
5. Install Apps and Add Accounts
Once setup is complete, open Ledger Live and select the “Manager” section. Install apps for each cryptocurrency you wish to manage — such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Solana. Then, add corresponding accounts within Ledger Live to view balances and make transactions. Each transaction must be physically approved on your Ledger device, keeping you in full control.
6. Stay Secure at All Times
- Always confirm that you’re on the official URL: https://www.ledger.com/start.
- Never share your recovery phrase with anyone — not even Ledger support.
- Beware of phishing websites or fake apps imitating Ledger Live.
- Keep your firmware updated through Ledger Live for optimal protection.
7. Manage, Buy, and Grow with Ledger Live
Ledger Live is your all-in-one crypto management platform. You can buy, sell, stake, and swap assets directly through trusted partners — all while your private keys remain offline and secure. You can also manage NFTs and explore DeFi platforms safely via Ledger’s verified integrations.
8. Need Assistance?
Visit the Ledger Support Center for official help. You’ll find tutorials, setup videos, and troubleshooting guides. Ledger support will never ask for your 24-word phrase — legitimate assistance is available only through the official support portal.
9. Secure Your Financial Freedom
By following this official getting started guide, you are taking the first step toward full control and ownership of your digital assets. Your Ledger hardware wallet ensures your cryptocurrencies remain safe, private, and always accessible only to you. Remember — your keys, your crypto.
Begin your secure journey today at Ledger.com/start.