🔒 Ledger.com/start® — Secure Hardware Wallet Setup

Welcome to the official guide for setting up your Ledger hardware wallet. Follow these steps to secure your crypto assets.

📋 What You'll Need

🌐 Step 1: Visit ledger.com/start

Open your preferred browser and go to the official Ledger setup page. Verify the URL starts with https:// and check for the padlock icon to avoid phishing sites.

Tip: Use Ctrl + L to focus the address bar, then type or paste the URL, followed by Enter.

💾 Step 2: Download Ledger Live

  1. Click on “Download Ledger Live” button on the webpage.
  2. Choose your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux).
  3. Run the installer and follow the instructions.

Ledger Live is your companion software that manages your device, portfolio, and transactions.

🔌 Step 3: Connect Your Ledger Device

  1. Plug your Ledger device into your computer via USB.
  2. For Ledger Nano X, you can also connect via Bluetooth.
  3. Turn on the device if necessary.

Do not enter your recovery phrase anywhere other than on the device itself.

🆕 Step 4: Initialize Your Ledger Wallet

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

The PIN protects your device from unauthorized physical access.

Use the device buttons Left, Right, and Both to navigate and select.

🔑 Step 5: Write Down Your Recovery Phrase

Your Ledger device will display a 24-word recovery phrase — the master key to your crypto assets.

  1. Write each word carefully on the recovery sheet provided.
  2. Store this sheet in a safe and private place.
  3. Never share this phrase with anyone or store it digitally.

This phrase is your only backup in case the device is lost or damaged.

✅ Step 6: Confirm Your Recovery Phrase

After writing down your recovery phrase, your Ledger device will ask you to confirm specific words.

  1. Use the device buttons to select the correct word when prompted.
  2. Ensure accuracy — this step verifies that you backed up your phrase properly.

📲 Step 7: Install Apps with Ledger Live

Ledger wallets support multiple cryptocurrencies. Use Ledger Live to install apps:

  1. Open Ledger Live and connect your device.
  2. Go to the “Manager” tab.
  3. Install apps for cryptocurrencies you want to manage (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.).

Each app enables the device to handle transactions for the specific coin.

💸 Step 8: Add Accounts and Manage Crypto

  1. In Ledger Live, click “Add account”.
  2. Select the cryptocurrency app you installed.
  3. Follow prompts to sync and view your account balance.

You can now send, receive, and track crypto securely.

📥 Step 9: Receive Cryptocurrency

  1. Choose the account you want to receive funds to.
  2. Click “Receive” to display your address.
  3. Verify the address on your Ledger device screen before sharing.
  4. Share this address with the sender.

Always confirm the address on your device to avoid phishing scams.

📤 Step 10: Send Cryptocurrency

  1. Click “Send” in Ledger Live.
  2. Enter recipient address and amount.
  3. Review transaction details.
  4. Confirm and approve the transaction on your Ledger device.

Your private keys never leave the hardware wallet during transactions, ensuring maximum security.

🔐 Security Best Practices

⚙️ Troubleshooting Tips