Ledger.com/Start - Official Ledger Wallet Setup Guide

Your trusted path to secure cryptocurrency management with Ledger.

Welcome to Ledger.com/Start! This comprehensive guide walks you through the process of setting up your Ledger hardware wallet safely. Whether you own a Ledger Nano X, Nano S Plus, or another model, the steps below will help you configure it for maximum security.

1. What Is Ledger Wallet?

The Ledger hardware wallet is a secure device that protects your private keys offline. Unlike software wallets that stay connected to the internet, Ledger devices are isolated from potential online threats. With Ledger, your crypto remains in your control — not on centralized exchanges.

Ledger supports over 5,500 cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, XRP, Dogecoin, and many ERC-20 tokens. Each transaction requires manual confirmation on the physical device, making it virtually impossible for hackers to steal your assets remotely.

2. Begin at Ledger.com/Start

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

Go to Ledger.com/Start using your computer or smartphone browser. Avoid search engine ads or third-party websites to prevent phishing attempts. Always verify the SSL certificate (🔒 symbol) and the URL spelling before proceeding.

Step 2: Download Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the companion application that allows you to manage your assets and update your device firmware. You can download it directly from Ledger.com/start. It’s available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.

Step 3: Install and Launch Ledger Live

Once installed, open Ledger Live and select “Get Started.” Choose whether you are setting up a new device or restoring from recovery phrase.

Tip: Make sure your device is fully charged or connected to power before starting the setup.

3. Initial Device Setup

After launching Ledger Live, plug your Ledger device into your computer via USB. Follow the steps displayed on both your device screen and your computer.

Step 4: Choose “Set Up as New Device”

Select “Set Up as New Device” if this is your first time using Ledger. You’ll then be prompted to create a PIN code — your first layer of protection. Use a 4-8 digit code that you can remember but others can’t easily guess.

Step 5: Write Down Your Recovery Phrase

This step is the most important part of your Ledger setup. The device will display 24 recovery words, one at a time. Write them carefully on the recovery sheet provided in your Ledger box. Never take a photo or store them online.

Ledger never stores or knows your recovery phrase. Anyone who gains access to these words can control your crypto.

Step 6: Confirm Recovery Phrase

To verify accuracy, your device will ask you to confirm a few random words from your phrase. Complete this process to ensure there were no mistakes when recording them.

4. Connect Ledger to Ledger Live

After completing the device setup, open Ledger Live again. Choose “Connect your Ledger device.” Once connected, the app will detect your device and confirm that it’s genuine using Ledger’s built-in security check.

Important: Always make sure Ledger Live shows “Your device is genuine.” If you ever see an alert, stop immediately and contact Ledger Support.

Step 7: Install Apps

In Ledger Live, navigate to “Manager.” You’ll find apps for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other supported cryptocurrencies. Install the apps you plan to use. Each app corresponds to a blockchain and lets you manage coins within that ecosystem.

Step 8: Add Accounts

Go to “Accounts” → “Add Account.” Choose your coin and follow the instructions. Ledger Live will generate your public address, which you can use to receive crypto safely.

5. Security Tips and Best Practices

6. Restoring from Recovery Phrase

If your device is lost or damaged, you can restore your wallet on a new Ledger device by choosing “Restore from Recovery Phrase” during setup. Enter your 24 words carefully — the order and spelling must match exactly.

Your funds are stored on the blockchain, not the device itself. The recovery phrase is your ultimate key to access them.

7. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Device Not Recognized

Ensure you’re using the original USB cable and that Ledger Live is updated. Try connecting to another USB port or restarting your computer.

“Genuine Check Failed” Error

This usually indicates outdated firmware or a connection issue. Reconnect the device and ensure no third-party software interferes with the process.

Forgotten PIN

If you forget your PIN, you can reset the device by entering the wrong PIN three times. Then, restore using your recovery phrase.

8. Keeping Your Crypto Secure Long-Term

Owning a Ledger wallet gives you complete control over your digital wealth. However, with great power comes responsibility. Keep your firmware updated, use a strong passphrase, and never interact with suspicious sites claiming to be Ledger support.

Reminder: Ledger representatives will never contact you asking for your recovery phrase. Stay vigilant against phishing attempts.

9. Managing Assets with Ledger Live

Ledger Live allows you to monitor portfolio performance, track balances, and send or receive crypto with ease. You can also stake coins like Ethereum or Tezos directly from the interface to earn rewards securely.

Regular updates ensure compatibility with new blockchain networks. Ledger continues expanding support, keeping your device future-ready.

10. Final Thoughts

Setting up your Ledger wallet at Ledger.com/Start is a one-time process that lays the foundation for long-term security. Once your wallet is ready, you can confidently manage, send, and receive cryptocurrencies knowing your private keys never leave your device.

Your Ledger device is more than just a piece of hardware — it’s your digital vault. With patience and security awareness, you’ll ensure your crypto remains safe for years to come.

Go to Official Ledger Setup