Start With Ledger:
Welcome to Ledger Start, your official guide to setting up, securing, and using your Ledger hardware wallet. This page will walk you step-by-step from unboxing your device to safely managing digital assets with confidence. Whether you're new to crypto or simply upgrading your security, this guide gives you everything you need to begin safely.
Ledger hardware wallets protect your private keys offline, keeping them safe from online attackers, malware, phishing attempts, and other digital threats. With a Ledger device, you control your crypto, not an exchange, not an app, and not a third party. Your private keys never leave the device, and every transaction must be approved manually, giving you a powerful layer of security that software wallets cannot match.
What You Need Before Getting Started
To begin your setup, make sure you have:
Your Ledger device (Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Ledger Stax)
A computer or smartphone
A stable internet connection
A pen and a safe place to store your recovery phrase
Your recovery phrase is the most important part of your crypto security. It’s a list of 24 words that acts as the master key to your wallet. Never share it. Never take a photo of it. Never store it digitally. Anyone who has your recovery phrase can access your funds.
Step 1: Unbox and Power On Your Ledger
When you open your Ledger device, you should see:
The hardware wallet
A USB cable (if applicable)
Recovery phrase cards
Quick start instructions
Turn on your device by pressing the main button(s). Follow the prompts on the screen. The device will guide you through the first steps, starting with choosing a PIN.
Step 2: Create a Strong PIN Code
Your device will ask you to set a PIN code. This PIN is required each time you unlock your Ledger.
Choose a PIN that is:
Difficult to guess
Not related to personal information
Only known to you
If someone learns your PIN and gets physical access to your device, they could attempt to use it—so keep it confidential.
Step 3: Write Down Your Recovery Phrase
After setting your PIN, the device will show your 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is displayed only once, so write down each word carefully in the exact order.
This phrase:
Allows you to restore your wallet if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged
Should never be stored on your phone, email, cloud services, or computer
Should never be shared with anyone
Your recovery phrase = your crypto. If someone else gets it, your assets are gone.
Store your written phrase in a safe, offline place. Many users choose fireproof safes or metal backup plates for long-term protection.
Step 4: Download the Official Ledger Live App
The next step is to install Ledger Live, the official companion app for your hardware wallet. This application lets you:
Install blockchain apps on your device
Create crypto accounts
Buy, send, and receive assets
Track your portfolio
Manage NFTs
Install firmware updates
Only download Ledger Live from official Ledger sources. Do not trust third-party sites, social media links, or ads.
Once installed, open Ledger Live and connect your Ledger device.
Step 5: Verify Your Device and Complete Setup
Ledger Live will ask you to complete a security check to verify that your device is genuine and properly initialized. Follow the on-screen instructions.
You might be asked to confirm certain recovery phrase words on your device, not on your computer or phone. This ensures that you were the one who wrote them down accurately and that your Ledger was set up securely.
Step 6: Install Cryptocurrency Apps on Your Ledger
Each blockchain—such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Solana—requires its own app on your Ledger device. Installing these apps does not store your crypto on the device; instead, they allow your Ledger to interact with each network.
You can install and remove apps anytime without losing assets. Your coins remain safe as long as your recovery phrase remains secure.
Step 7: Add Crypto Accounts in Ledger Live
Once you install apps, Ledger Live will allow you to add accounts. These accounts let you see balances, manage addresses, and view transaction history.
To add an account:
Open Ledger Live
Go to “Accounts”
Choose the crypto you want to manage
Follow the prompts and confirm actions on your Ledger device
You can add as many accounts as needed.
Step 8: Receive Crypto Safely
To receive crypto, go to the “Receive” section in Ledger Live and select the account you want to receive into.
Ledger Live will display a receiving address. Your Ledger hardware wallet will show the same address so you can verify it.
Always confirm the address on the device screen.
If the address shown on your computer is different from what appears on your Ledger, do not proceed. This protects you from malware that might try to alter addresses.
Step 9: Send Crypto with Full Security
Sending assets requires two steps:
Enter the destination address and amount in Ledger Live
Confirm the transaction physically on your Ledger device
This manual confirmation is one of your strongest security protections. Even if your computer is compromised, a hacker cannot send funds without direct access to your hardware wallet.
Advanced Features: Swapping, Staking, and NFTs
Ledger Live includes several advanced features supported by integrated partners.
You can:
Swap certain cryptocurrencies
Buy or sell through verified partners
Stake assets such as Ethereum, Polkadot, or Solana
Manage NFTs securely
Even when using these features, your private keys stay offline inside your Ledger.
Stay Secure: Best Practices for Ledger Users
To maintain maximum security:
Never type your recovery phrase into a website or app
Never share your recovery phrase with anyone
Avoid fake support agents online
Double-check URLs before entering personal information
Bookmark official Ledger pages
Store your recovery phrase offline in a safe, protected place
Remember, legitimate Ledger support will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase.
Firmware Updates: Keeping Your Device Safe
Ledger releases firmware updates from time to time to improve security and add support for new assets. Updating is simple through Ledger Live.
During updates:
Follow Ledger Live instructions
Keep your device connected
Do not interrupt the process
Firmware updates do not affect your crypto. Your recovery phrase ensures you can always restore your wallet if needed.
Restoring a Ledger Device
If you lose your device or buy a new one, you can simply recover your wallet by selecting “Restore” on the Ledger and entering your 24-word recovery phrase.
Make sure you perform this process in private, away from cameras or anyone else. Once restored, your accounts will reappear in Ledger Live after syncing.
You Are Ready to Start With Ledger
By following this guide, you have completed the essential steps to secure your digital assets. With your Ledger hardware wallet, you maintain full control of your crypto while benefiting from industry-leading protection.
You now have:
A secure hardware wallet
A properly stored recovery phrase
Ledger Live installed
Crypto accounts created
The ability to send, receive, and manage assets safely
Hardware wallet security is an ongoing commitment. Keep your PIN private, protect your recovery phrase, and continue learning as you explore the world of digital assets.
Your secure crypto journey begins now—connect your device, open Ledger Live, and take full control of your digital future with confidence.