Ledger.com/Start® | Getting started — Ledger Support

firmware

— 3 min read

Ledger.com/Start®, the official starting point for setting up, securing, and confidently using your Ledger hardware wallet. Whether you are unboxing your device for the first time or returning to complete your setup, this guide walks you through every essential step with clarity and safety in mind. Ledger’s mission is to help you protect your digital assets using industry-leading security, and this page is designed to ensure your onboarding experience is smooth, simple, and secure.

What You Need Before You Start

Before beginning the setup process, make sure you have the following items ready:

  • A genuine Ledger Nano X, Ledger Nano S Plus, or other Ledger hardware wallet
  • A computer or smartphone with a stable internet connection
  • Your original recovery sheet provided inside the box
  • A few minutes to carefully complete the security steps

Ledger never asks you for your recovery phrase. Always keep it private.

Step 1 — Unbox and Verify Your Ledger Device

When you open your Ledger box, ensure:

  • The package is sealed and undamaged
  • The device powers on without issues
  • You only use the cables that came with the product
  • There is no pre-written recovery phrase included

If anything seems suspicious, contact Ledger Support immediately. Ledger devices always initialize unconfigured, meaning you create your own recovery phrase during setup.

Step 2 — Download and Install Ledger Live

Visit the official Ledger app download page using a secure connection.
Through Ledger Live, you will:

  • Initialize your Ledger device
  • Install crypto apps
  • Create accounts
  • Send, receive, and manage digital assets
  • Monitor portfolio activity in a secure environment

Ledger Live is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.

Step 3 — Set Up Your Ledger Hardware Wallet

Once Ledger Live is installed, connect your device and follow the guided onboarding steps:

1. Create a New Wallet

The device will ask you to create a wallet. This process generates your unique:

  • Recovery Phrase (24 words)
  • PIN code

Never take a digital photo, upload it online, or type it into any device. Store your recovery phrase offline only.

2. Choose a Secure PIN

Your PIN protects your wallet from unauthorized physical access.
Select a PIN that is:

  • Easy for you to remember
  • Difficult for others to guess
  • Never written or stored in digital form

Step 4 — Secure Your Recovery Phrase

Your recovery phrase is the only backup to restore your Ledger wallet. Write down each word on the recovery sheet carefully and confirm it on the device when prompted.

Guidelines for keeping your phrase safe:

  • Store it in multiple secret physical locations
  • Never share it with anyone
  • Never enter it on websites, apps, or computers
  • Consider a metal backup for long-term protection

If someone obtains your recovery phrase, they can access your assets. Treat it like gold.

Step 5 — Install Crypto Apps & Add Accounts

After securing your wallet, open Ledger Live to add support for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage.

Steps:

  1. Navigate to My Ledger
  2. Install the apps for your preferred coins (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum)
  3. Create accounts for each asset
  4. Start receiving crypto directly to your Ledger-secured addresses

Each app operates on the device; this ensures every transaction is verified physically on your Ledger screen.

Step 6 — Send and Receive Crypto Securely

Once your accounts are set up:

  • Use Receive to generate a secure Ledger address
  • Verify the address on your device screen
  • Use Send to transfer assets while signing transactions on your Ledger device

Ledger ensures your private keys never leave the hardware wallet.

Step 7 — Update Firmware When Needed

Ledger regularly releases firmware updates to improve security, compatibility, and performance.
To update:

  • Open Ledger Live → My Ledger
  • Connect your device
  • Follow the on-screen instructions

Always double-check you are on the official Ledger platform.

Need Assistance? Ledger Support Is Here

If you ever encounter difficulties—whether device pairing issues, app installation errors, or general questions—visit Ledger Support for official guidance. You can access:

  • Step-by-step troubleshooting articles
  • Hardware guidance
  • Security best practices
  • Contact options for personalized help

Ledger Support will never ask for your recovery phrase. Stay cautious of phishing attempts.

Start Your Secure Crypto Journey Today

Ledger.com/Start® ensures that your path into the world of digital assets begins with confidence and top-tier protection. With your device properly set up, your recovery phrase secured, and Ledger Live ready to use, you can manage your crypto portfolio with the industry’s most trusted security.

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