Ledger.com/Start®| Getting Started — Ledger Support™

Your First Steps with a Ledger Hardware Wallet: A Complete Setup Guide

Welcome to ledger.com/start, the definitive resource for unboxing and initializing your new Ledger device. If you're holding a Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax for the first time, this is where your journey to secure, sovereign crypto management begins. We’ve designed this guide to transform setup from a technical task into a simple, confidence-building process. Let's get started.

Before You Begin: Essential Preparation

Success starts with preparation. Before connecting your device, ensure you have:

  • A computer or smartphone with an internet connection.
  • Your Ledger hardware wallet, USB cable, and recovery phrase sheet (included in the box).
  • About 15-20 minutes of focused time in a private setting.

Crucial Security Reminder: Only ever purchase Ledger devices from our official website or verified authorized partners to guarantee authenticity.

Phase 1: Installing Ledger Live – Your Management Hub

Your Ledger device works in tandem with Ledger Live, our free, secure application.

  1. Navigate to the official Ledger website and download Ledger Live for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android).
  2. Install the application and launch it. Select "Get started" and follow the prompts to create a new portfolio.

Phase 2: Device Initialization – Creating Your Digital Vault

This is the core of your security setup.

  1. Connect and Power On: Plug your Ledger device into your computer using the supplied USB cable. Follow the on-screen instructions on the device to begin.
  2. Set Your PIN Code: Your device will prompt you to create a PIN code (4 to 8 digits). This code is your first line of physical defense. Choose one you can remember but that isn't easily guessed.
  3. Write Down Your Recovery Phrase: Next, your device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. This is the master key to your entire wallet.
    • Write each word in order on your provided recovery sheet.
    • Do not store this phrase digitally— no photos, text files, or cloud notes.
    • Keep it offline and private, like you would a physical deed or will. We will never ask for this phrase.

Phase 3: Confirmation and App Installation

  1. Verify Your Recovery Phrase: Your Ledger will ask you to re-select several words from the list. This confirms you’ve recorded it correctly. This step is non-negotiable for your safety.
  2. Access the Manager in Ledger Live: In Ledger Live, go to "My Ledger." Connect and unlock your device. The application will automatically check for necessary firmware updates—install them if prompted.
  3. Install Crypto Asset Apps: Here, you can browse and install apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Polkadot) directly onto your device. These lightweight apps enable your Ledger to manage different blockchains. You can install and remove them as needed; your assets remain safe and unaffected.

Phase 4: Your First Secure Transaction

Now, let's receive assets securely.

  1. In Ledger Live, click "Add account," select your cryptocurrency, and follow the verification process.
  2. Once the account is created, click "Receive." Ledger Live will display a receiving address.
  3. The Critical Step: Your Ledger device screen will display this same address. Physically verify that the addresses match exactly before sending any funds. This ensures no malware has altered the address on your computer screen.
  4. Confirm on the device, and your secure deposit address is ready.

Congratulations! Your crypto is now under your control. From your Ledger Live dashboard, you can:

  • Buy Crypto: Use our partner integrations to purchase assets directly into your secure wallet.
  • Grow Your Assets: Explore in-app staking and earning opportunities for supported coins.
  • Connect Safely to Web3: Use the "Discover" section to connect your Ledger to vetted DeFi platforms and NFT marketplaces, with every transaction requiring your manual device approval.

Your Ongoing Security Commitment

Remember, security is an ongoing practice. Bookmark this page at ledger.com/start for future reference. Never share your PIN or recovery phrase. Always verify transaction details on your device's screen. Keep your Ledger Live and device firmware updated through the official Manager.

You’ve taken the most important step by choosing self-custody. Welcome to a world where your digital wealth is truly yours—secure, accessible, and under your complete command. Your financial sovereignty starts now.