ledger.com/start — Quick start guide for your Ledger hardware wallet

Use this page to securely set up your Ledger device, create a recovery phrase, connect to Ledger Live, and begin managing your crypto assets.

Get started at ledger.com/start

This guide walks you through the official steps to complete your Ledger setup at ledger.com/start. Follow each step precisely: installing Ledger Live, initializing your device, securing your recovery phrase, and validating the device — all essential actions to protect your crypto holdings.

What you’ll need

  • Official Ledger device (Ledger Nano S Plus / Ledger Nano X)
  • Computer or mobile device and a USB-C/USB-A cable (if required)
  • Access to ledger.com/start and Ledger Live app
  • A private, offline place to write your recovery phrase

Security-first approach

Only download Ledger Live from ledger.com/start or the official stores. Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase. Keep your recovery phrase offline and private.

Step-by-step setup at ledger.com/start

1. Download Ledger Live

Visit ledger.com/start, choose your operating system, and download Ledger Live. Verify the checksum when prompted. Ledger Live is the official companion app to manage accounts, update firmware, and install apps on your device.

2. Initialize your Ledger device

Connect the device and follow the on-screen prompts. Choose “Set up as new device” to create a new wallet, or “Restore device” if you already have a recovery phrase. Create a secure PIN on the device — this PIN is required to access the device locally.

3. Record your recovery phrase

The device will display a 24-word recovery phrase. Write these words on the provided recovery sheet — never store them digitally or share them. This phrase is the only backup to restore funds if your device is lost or damaged.

4. Install apps & add accounts

Using Ledger Live, install blockchain apps (Ethereum, Bitcoin, etc.) and add accounts. Approve transactions directly on your device to maintain hardware-level security.

5. Validate and update firmware

Ledger periodically releases firmware updates. Always validate firmware updates from Ledger Live at ledger.com/start and confirm device prompts before proceeding.

Best practices — one quick checklist

  1. Download Ledger Live only from ledger.com/start and verify files.
  2. Keep your 24-word recovery phrase offline and private; Ledger will never ask for it.
  3. Use a unique PIN and enable device passphrase only if you understand the trade-offs.
  4. Confirm addresses and amounts on the device screen for every transaction.

Troubleshooting

If Ledger Live cannot detect your device, update your OS USB drivers, try an official cable, and use another USB port. For firmware errors, follow on-screen recovery instructions and consult the Ledger support center.

Official support & resources

Visit ledger.com/start for downloads, verified checksums, and step-by-step videos. If you need direct assistance, contact Ledger Support through the official channels listed on ledger.com.

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