What You'll Need for Ledger.com/start Setup
Ledger Device
Your Ledger Nano S, Nano X, or Nano S Plus hardware wallet (unopened and purchased from official sources only)
Computer or Phone
Desktop (Windows, Mac, Linux) or mobile device (iOS/Android) to install Ledger Live app
Recovery Sheet
Paper included with your Ledger to securely write down your 24-word recovery phrase
Step-by-Step Ledger.com/start Setup Process
Visit Ledger.com/start and Download Ledger Live
Navigate to ledger.com/start on your computer or mobile device. This is the official starting point for all Ledger users.
For Desktop Users:
- Click "Download Ledger Live" for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux)
- Install the application following standard installation procedures
- Launch Ledger Live once installation is complete
For Mobile Users:
- Download Ledger Live from the Apple App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android)
- Verify the app publisher is "Ledger SAS" before installing
- Open the app after installation
Security Tip: Only download Ledger Live from official sources. Never download from third-party websites or click links in unsolicited emails.
Unbox and Connect Your Ledger Hardware Wallet
Carefully unbox your Ledger device and inspect the packaging for any signs of tampering. Your Ledger should arrive sealed.
What's in the Box:
- Ledger hardware device (Nano S, X, or S Plus)
- USB cable for connection
- Recovery phrase sheets (blank cards to write your seed phrase)
- Getting started leaflet
- Keychain attachment (some models)
Connect your device: Use the provided USB cable to connect your Ledger to your computer, or use Bluetooth for Nano X mobile connections.
Warning: If your device arrives with a pre-filled recovery phrase or PIN, DO NOT USE IT. This is a scam. Ledger devices never come with pre-configured seeds. Contact Ledger support immediately.
Set Up Your Ledger Device as New Wallet
Follow the on-screen instructions in Ledger Live to initialize your device.
Choose "Set up as new device"
Select this option in Ledger Live (not "Restore from recovery phrase" unless you're importing an existing wallet)
Create a PIN code (4-8 digits)
Use the device buttons to select a PIN. Choose something memorable but not obvious (avoid 1234 or your birthday). You'll need this every time you use your Ledger.
Confirm your PIN
Re-enter your PIN to verify it's correct
Write Down Your 24-Word Ledger.com/start Recovery Phrase
This is the most critical step in your Ledger setup. Your recovery phrase (also called seed phrase or mnemonic) is the master key to all your cryptocurrency.
Critical Security Instructions:
- ✓Write your 24 words on the recovery sheets provided by Ledger (or durable paper)
- ✓Write them in the EXACT order shown on your device
- ✓Double-check every word for accuracy
- ✓Store in a secure, fireproof location (consider a safe)
- ✗NEVER take a photo or screenshot of your recovery phrase
- ✗NEVER type it into a computer or phone
- ✗NEVER share it with anyone (Ledger support will never ask for it)
- ✗NEVER store it digitally or in the cloud
Why Your Recovery Phrase Matters:
Anyone with access to your 24-word recovery phrase can access ALL your cryptocurrency, even without your Ledger device. If you lose your device, this phrase is the ONLY way to recover your funds.
Store seed phrase safely = Crypto safety. It's that simple.
Verify Your Recovery Phrase
Your Ledger will ask you to confirm several words from your recovery phrase to ensure you wrote them down correctly.
- The device will prompt you for specific words (e.g., "Select word #3")
- Use the device buttons to scroll and select the correct word
- Confirm each selection
- Once verified, your device setup is complete
Success! Your Ledger hardware wallet is now initialized and secured with your unique recovery phrase.
How to Use Ledger Live: Add Your First Crypto Accounts
Now that your device is set up, you'll add cryptocurrency accounts in Ledger Live to manage your altcoins.
Click "Add Account" in Ledger Live
Select the cryptocurrency you want to add (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.)
Connect and unlock your Ledger device when prompted
Open the crypto app on your Ledger (e.g., Bitcoin app, Ethereum app)
Name your account and click "Add account"
Supported Cryptocurrencies:
Ledger supports 5,500+ coins and tokens including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), XRP, Cardano (ADA), Solana (SOL), Polkadot (DOT), and thousands of ERC-20 tokens and altcoins.
Connect to DeFi dApps and Web3 Applications
One of the most powerful features of Ledger is the ability to connect to decentralized applications (dApps) while keeping your keys secure on the hardware device.
Using Ledger with DeFi Platforms:
- Open your desired dApp (Uniswap, Aave, OpenSea, etc.) in your web browser
- Click "Connect Wallet" on the dApp
- Select "Ledger" or "Hardware Wallet" from the wallet options
- Connect your Ledger device and unlock it with your PIN
- Open the appropriate crypto app on your device (usually Ethereum for DeFi)
- Approve the connection in your browser
- Confirm any transactions on your Ledger device screen
DeFi Wallet Security: Your Ledger acts as a secure DeFi wallet, meaning you can interact with decentralized finance platforms without exposing your private keys. Every transaction must be physically approved on your device.
Install Ledger Live Mobile App for On-the-Go Management
The Ledger Live mobile app allows you to manage your crypto wallet from your smartphone, perfect for checking balances and managing your mobile crypto wallet.
Download from App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android)
For Nano X: Connect via Bluetooth
For Nano S/S Plus: Use USB OTG adapter
Your accounts sync across desktop and mobile
Mobile Crypto Wallet Benefits: Check your portfolio, receive crypto, and manage your accounts anywhere. Transactions still require your physical Ledger device for maximum security.
Import Wallet to Ledger: Restore Existing Wallet
If you already have a cryptocurrency wallet and want to import it to your Ledger device, follow these steps:
1. Choose "Restore from recovery phrase" during setup
Instead of setting up as new, select the restore option when initializing your Ledger
2. Enter your existing recovery phrase
Using the device buttons, input your 12, 18, or 24-word recovery phrase from your previous wallet
3. Set a new PIN
Create a PIN for your Ledger device (this can be different from your previous wallet)
4. Add accounts in Ledger Live
Your previous balances will appear once you add the corresponding crypto accounts
Important: Only import wallets from trusted sources. If you're importing from a software wallet, your security significantly improves by moving to hardware storage.
Best Practices for Ledger Wallet Security
Keep Your Recovery Phrase Safe
- • Store in multiple secure locations
- • Consider metal backup solutions
- • Never share with anyone
- • Keep away from cameras and phones
Verify Everything on Device
- • Always check addresses on Ledger screen
- • Confirm transaction details on device
- • Don't trust computer displays alone
- • Enable blind signing carefully
Stay Alert for Scams
- • Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase
- • No "urgent" security updates via email
- • Verify URLs before connecting
- • Use official Ledger support channels only
Keep Software Updated
- • Update Ledger Live regularly
- • Install firmware updates when available
- • Update crypto apps on your device
- • Only update through official Ledger Live
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Official Ledger Resources
For additional help, updates, and official support, visit these Ledger resources:
Conclusion: Your Crypto Journey Starts Here
Congratulations! You've completed the comprehensive Ledger.com/start setup process. By following this guide, you've taken the most important step in cryptocurrency ownership: securing your digital assets with industry-leading hardware wallet technology.
Your Ledger device, combined with Ledger Live software, gives you complete control over your cryptocurrency while protecting you from online threats. Whether you're managing altcoins, exploring DeFi platforms, or simply holding Bitcoin for the long term, your Ledger provides the security foundation you need.
Remember the Golden Rules:
- • Your 24-word recovery phrase is everything—protect it like your life savings depend on it (because they do)
- • Always verify addresses and transaction details on your Ledger screen, never trust the computer display alone
- • Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase—anyone who does is a scammer
- • Keep your Ledger Live and device firmware updated through official channels only
- • When in doubt, consult official Ledger support at support.ledger.com
Welcome to the world of self-custody crypto management. You're now in control of your financial future. Stay safe, stay informed, and enjoy the freedom that comes with true ownership of your digital assets.