You’re about to begin your journey into secure, self‑custody of cryptocurrency. With Ledger, your private keys remain **offline**, never exposed to the internet. This page—**Ledger.com/Start®**—guides you step by step from setup to usage.
Everything you do must be confirmed on the physical device. That’s how the system defends against phishing, malware, and remote intrusion. Let’s begin. 🚀
Essential Items to Prepare
Before starting your setup, ensure you have:
Your Ledger hardware wallet (e.g., Ledger Nano X, Nano S, or new models).
A USB cable (included with your device) or Bluetooth (if your device supports it).
A computer (Windows, macOS, or Linux) or mobile device (iOS/Android).
A stable internet connection (for downloading the app, firmware, etc.).
A pen and the recovery card or backup sheet that came with your Ledger.
⚠️ Important: Your recovery phrase (usually 24 words) is critical. Never store it digitally, never share it, and only write it physically in a safe place.
Step 1: Go to Ledger.com/Start®
In your browser, go to https://ledger.com/start. Verify the URL and SSL certificate carefully. Only use official pages to avoid phishing clones.
On the Start page, you'll find download links for **Ledger Live**, setup instructions, and security tips. This central hub ensures you follow the correct onboarding path.
Step 2: Download & Install Ledger Live
From Ledger.com/Start®, download the Ledger Live software compatible with your system (desktop or mobile). Ledger Live is your control center for adding accounts, sending/receiving assets, staking, and more.
Run the installer or app, grant required permissions, and launch it. Once started, it will detect your connected Ledger device.
Step 3: Connect & Recognize the Device
Connect your Ledger hardware wallet to your computer or device. The app should detect it automatically. If not, try changing USB ports or using another cable—avoid generic hubs where possible.
The device may run an authenticity check. Always confirm prompts on the device itself to ensure you're using a genuine Ledger unit.
Step 4: Initialize or Restore
At this point, Ledger Live will ask whether to **set up a new device** or **restore from an existing recovery phrase**:
Create New Device: Choose this if you’re initializing for the first time. You’ll generate a new recovery phrase.
Restore Device: Use this if you already have your recovery phrase to restore an existing wallet.
If creating new, the device will display your 24-word recovery phrase. Write each word in order on the provided sheet. Then you’ll confirm select words to verify correctness.
Step 5: Set a Secure PIN
Now, choose a PIN for your device. You will enter this PIN every time your Ledger connects. Importantly, the PIN is entered **on the device itself**, not via your computer or app—protecting against keyloggers.
Choose something you can remember but isn’t trivial (avoid “1234”, birthdays, etc.). Do not write the PIN near your recovery phrase.
Step 6: Install Crypto Apps & Enable Accounts
Once your device is initialized and unlocked, use Ledger Live to install application modules for the cryptocurrencies you intend to use (e.g. Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.). These apps allow the device to manage those particular chains.
After installing, go to **Accounts** or **Add Account** and create or import accounts under those assets. Each account link requires confirmation from your Ledger device.
Using Your Ledger: Send, Receive & Manage
With everything set up, you can now perform standard wallet functions:
Receive: In Ledger Live, go to “Receive,” select the asset, and copy the address displayed. Always confirm the same address on your device screen before receiving funds.
Send: Select “Send,” paste the recipient address, enter amount and fee, then confirm details on your device. Any mismatch is a red flag.
Stake / Earn: For supported assets, use Ledger Live to stake or delegate assets directly from your wallet while keeping control of your keys.
Swap / Exchange: Some integrations allow you to swap assets within Ledger Live securely.
Security Best Practices
Ledger offers strong hardware security—but your habits bolster it further. Follow these best practices:
Always use **Ledger.com/Start** or official links. Do not trust search results or random links that claim to be “Ledger setup.”
Never share your recovery phrase with anyone, not even “official support.”
Never type your recovery phrase into a computer or software.
Keep multiple physical backups of your recovery phrase in secure, separate locations.
Consistently update your device firmware and Ledger Live app to access security patches and improvements.
Validate transaction details on the Ledger’s screen before approving anything—don’t just trust what the app shows.
Disconnect your Ledger when not actively using it, and avoid leaving it plugged in unattended.
🔐 Strong security is not just about hardware—it’s also about smart habits.
What Happens If You Lose or Break Your Device?
Losing your Ledger doesn’t mean losing your crypto—so long as your recovery phrase is safe:
Purchase a new, genuine Ledger device.
During setup, select **Restore Device** instead of creating new.
Enter your recovery phrase (and passphrase, if used) exactly as before.
Set a new PIN and re‑install apps and accounts via Ledger Live.
As long as your recovery phrase is accurate and secure, your funds can be fully restored.
Troubleshooting & Common Issues
Setup doesn’t always go smoothly. Here are typical problems and suggestions:
Device not detected: Switch USB ports or cables; avoid USB hubs; ensure correct cable (data, not just charging).
Ledger Live crashes or doesn’t open: Restart app, reinstall it, check compatibility with your OS.
Recovery phrase mismatch: Confirm you wrote it correctly and in order. Use the provided sheet to avoid transcription errors.
Forgot PIN: You’ll need to reset the device and restore via recovery phrase (funds remain safe). Resetting without the phrase loses access.
Suspicious links or phishing: Ignore emails or messages asking your recovery phrase. Ledger support will never ask for it. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Download from unofficial site: Only download Ledger Live from Ledger.com/Start. Fake clones are used by scammers. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
✅ Final reminder: Always begin through ledger.com/start. Confirm every prompt on your Ledger device, safeguard your recovery phrase, and remain vigilant against scams. With the right precautions, you hold full, secure control over your crypto.