Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started
Welcome to the trusted starting point for securing and managing your cryptocurrency — Ledger.com/Start®. Whether you're new to digital assets or an experienced investor, Ledger offers an easy and secure way to take full control of your funds. Through a combination of advanced hardware wallets and user-friendly software, Ledger helps you store, manage, and grow your crypto safely and efficiently.
This guide provides step-by-step instructions to help you begin your journey with Ledger from the official source.
Why Choose Ledger?
Ledger is a globally recognized leader in cryptocurrency security. With over 6 million devices sold and support for thousands of crypto assets, Ledger gives users peace of mind by combining a physical security layer (a hardware wallet) with a powerful software interface (Ledger Live).
Unlike online wallets or custodial platforms, Ledger’s solution ensures that your private keys are stored offline, safe from hacks, phishing attacks, and malware. Only you control your keys — and therefore, your assets.
Step 1: Unbox and Verify Your Device
When you receive your Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X, inspect the packaging carefully. Every Ledger device comes in a sealed box, and the product itself should never have a pre-written recovery phrase or show signs of prior use.
If anything seems unusual, stop and contact official support before proceeding. Ledger devices should always be initialized by you, not by a third party.
Step 2: Set Up Your Ledger Hardware Wallet
To begin setting up your Ledger device:
- Turn on your device by pressing the designated buttons.
- Select the option to “Set up as a new device.”
- Choose a PIN code (usually 4 to 8 digits). This code is required each time you unlock the device.
- Write down the 24-word recovery phrase displayed on your device, in the exact order shown.
This recovery phrase is the only backup of your private keys. Store it offline in a secure location. Do not take digital photos, upload it to the cloud, or type it into any device. Never share it with anyone.
If you ever lose access to your Ledger device, this phrase will allow you to restore your wallet on a new device.
Step 3: Install Ledger Live on Your Device
Ledger Live is the official software application that pairs with your Ledger hardware wallet. It provides a secure and easy-to-use interface for managing your assets.
Once Ledger Live is installed on your desktop or mobile device:
- Open the app and select “Get Started.”
- Choose your Ledger model.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to connect your device via USB (or Bluetooth for Ledger Nano X).
- Ledger Live will run a security check to verify the authenticity of your device.
After the verification is complete, you’ll be directed to the main dashboard.
Step 4: Add Cryptocurrency Accounts
To manage cryptocurrencies through Ledger Live, you’ll need to install apps for each asset on your device and add accounts within the app.
Here’s how:
- Navigate to the Accounts section.
- Select Add Account.
- Choose the cryptocurrency you want to manage (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana).
- Follow the prompts to install the required app on your Ledger device.
- Ledger Live will create the account and sync it with your device.
Repeat this process for each crypto asset you want to manage. You can add as many accounts as you need.
Step 5: Send and Receive Crypto Safely
Receiving Crypto:
- Go to the account of the asset you want to receive.
- Click Receive.
- Verify the wallet address on both Ledger Live and your Ledger device screen.
- Share the address with the sender.
Sending Crypto:
- Click Send.
- Enter the recipient’s address and amount.
- Confirm the transaction details.
- Approve the transaction directly on your Ledger device.
Transactions can only be signed and completed with your physical confirmation, providing a critical layer of security.
Step 6: Explore Ledger Live Features
Ledger Live offers more than basic wallet functions. With it, you can:
- Monitor your portfolio in real-time
- Stake supported assets like Ethereum, Polkadot, and Tezos
- Swap cryptocurrencies directly within the app
- Buy crypto through integrated services
- Update firmware and apps to keep your device secure and up to date
The platform is regularly updated, ensuring access to the latest security features and crypto integrations.
Stay Secure with Ledger
Security is at the heart of everything Ledger offers. Here are some tips to ensure your assets remain safe:
- Never share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone.
- Only install Ledger Live from the official source.
- Always verify addresses on your Ledger device before approving transactions.
- Keep your PIN code confidential.
- Regularly update your device firmware and apps through Ledger Live.
Remember: Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase, PIN, or seed words. If someone asks for them, it is a scam.