Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started

In the world of cryptocurrency, security is everything. If you want full control over your digital assets, using a hardware wallet is one of the most secure methods available—and Ledger® is one of the most trusted names in the industry. Whether you’re holding Bitcoin, Ethereum, or a range of altcoins, setting up your Ledger device correctly is the first step to protecting your funds.

This guide will walk you through getting started with your Ledger device using the official site: Ledger.com/Start. Follow each step carefully to ensure a secure and smooth setup experience.

What Is Ledger®?

Ledger® is a leading manufacturer of hardware wallets designed to secure cryptocurrencies offline. By storing your private keys on a physical device rather than a computer or mobile phone, Ledger wallets help eliminate the risk of online hacks and phishing attacks.

There are currently two main Ledger models available:

  • Ledger Nano S Plus – Compact, affordable, and secure; supports hundreds of coins.
  • Ledger Nano X – Features Bluetooth capability, larger memory, and mobile compatibility.

Step 1: Visit Ledger.com/Start®

To begin setting up your Ledger device, connect it to your computer using the USB cable provided. Then, go to:

👉 https://ledger.com/start

This is the official onboarding portal for all Ledger devices. Always access this link directly or through Ledger’s verified channels—never use third-party setup sites, which can lead to scams.

Step 2: Download Ledger Live

Once on the setup page, you’ll be prompted to download Ledger Live, the official desktop and mobile application for managing your Ledger wallet.

Ledger Live allows you to:

  • Initialize your Ledger device
  • Install apps for various cryptocurrencies
  • Create or restore a wallet
  • Send, receive, and manage crypto assets
  • Connect with Web3 apps and DeFi services

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

Step 3: Set Up Your Device

After installing Ledger Live, launch the app and follow the guided instructions to set up your device:

🔐 Option 1: Set Up as New Device

If this is your first time using Ledger, choose to initialize a new device. The Ledger will display a randomly generated 24-word recovery phrase on its screen.

  • Write down the recovery phrase exactly in the order shown.
  • Do not store the phrase digitally or take photos.
  • Keep your recovery sheet in a secure, offline location.

This seed phrase is the only way to recover your wallet if your device is lost or damaged. Anyone with access to it can control your assets—so guard it carefully.

🔄 Option 2: Restore from Recovery Phrase

If you already have a 24-word phrase from a previous Ledger device or backup, choose the option to restore an existing wallet. You’ll enter the phrase directly on the device, keeping your private keys offline and secure.

Step 4: Set a PIN Code

Next, choose a secure PIN code on the device itself. This code will be required each time you use your Ledger wallet.

  • Choose a code that’s hard to guess.
  • Never share your PIN with anyone.
  • If the PIN is entered incorrectly too many times, the device will reset, and you’ll need your recovery phrase to restore access.

Step 5: Install Apps for Coins

Once your device is initialized and connected to Ledger Live, you can install crypto apps for the coins you plan to use (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana). Each app enables support for a different blockchain within Ledger Live.

To install apps:

  • Open Ledger Live
  • Go to “My Ledger”
  • Install apps based on the cryptocurrencies you want to manage

After installing apps, you can add accounts and start managing your assets.

Step 6: Start Using Your Wallet

Now that everything is set up, you can begin:

  • Sending and receiving crypto securely
  • Staking supported assets like Ethereum or Polkadot
  • Accessing DeFi protocols and NFTs with Ledger + MetaMask
  • Managing your portfolio through the Ledger Live dashboard

All transactions must be confirmed on your Ledger device, keeping your private keys offline and under your control.

Ledger Security Tips

To maximize your wallet’s security:

  • Only use Ledger Live and Ledger.com for downloads and updates.
  • Enable password lock on Ledger Live.
  • Keep your 24-word recovery phrase offline and secure.
  • Avoid using your wallet on public or compromised devices.
  • Stay alert to phishing emails or fake support messages.

Need Help?

If you run into issues during setup or use, Ledger provides official support and resources:

  • Ledger Help Center
  • Ledger Academy
  • Community support via Reddit, Discord, and social media

Avoid sharing sensitive information on public forums. Ledger support will never ask for your 24-word phrase.

Final Thoughts

Setting up your Ledger wallet through the official site at Ledger.com/Start is the first and most important step toward true crypto ownership. With your private keys secured offline and Ledger Live providing a user-friendly interface, you can manage your digital assets with confidence and peace of mind.

Whether you're holding for the long term or actively managing a crypto portfolio, Ledger® gives you the security, control, and flexibility you need in today’s digital economy.