Welcome to Ledger.com/Start, the official starting point for setting up and securing your Ledger hardware wallet. Whether you are using a Ledger Nano X, Nano S Plus, or another Ledger device, this guide provides a complete walkthrough for installation, setup, and ongoing security management.
Before connecting your device, download the official Ledger Live application for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux). This software allows you to manage your crypto assets, check balances, install apps, and perform firmware updates.
⚠️ Always ensure you download from the official Ledger domain (ledger.com) to avoid phishing or malicious versions.
After installation, open Ledger Live and follow the on-screen instructions to connect your Ledger device using a USB cable. Choose “Set up as new device” if this is your first use, or “Restore from recovery phrase” if you are recovering an existing wallet.
The initialization process involves setting a secure PIN directly on the device and generating a unique 24-word recovery phrase. Never share this recovery phrase online or store it digitally. Write it down on paper and keep it in a private, secure location.
Ledger devices come with built-in authenticity checks. During setup, Ledger Live will verify that your device is genuine and running the latest firmware. Always approve firmware updates directly from Ledger Live and confirm them on your device’s screen.
Do not install firmware from unofficial websites or third-party sources. Ledger’s firmware is digitally signed to prevent tampering.
Once your Ledger device is verified, you can add cryptocurrency accounts in Ledger Live. Each account corresponds to a public key generated from your secure private key stored in the hardware wallet. This means your funds remain safe even if your computer is compromised.
Ledger Live will synchronize with the blockchain to display your current balances and recent transactions.
To receive crypto, use Ledger Live to generate a receiving address and verify it on your device’s screen before sharing it. This ensures that no malware has modified the displayed address.
When sending crypto, you will confirm every detail (amount, address, network fees) directly on your Ledger device before the transaction is signed. This step keeps your assets secure even in case of compromised computers.
Use Ledger Live’s “Manager” tab to install or uninstall blockchain apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.) and keep your device firmware up to date. The device’s secure element prevents any unauthorized firmware installation, maintaining strict hardware integrity.
Remember: Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase. Any message, call, or email requesting it is a scam.
If your device is lost or damaged, you can restore your wallet using the 24-word recovery phrase on a new Ledger device. Enter the words manually using the device buttons and confirm. This process restores your keys and balances exactly as before.
For additional protection, consider using a passphrase (an optional 25th word) to create a hidden wallet.
Ledger releases updates to Ledger Live and device firmware to enhance performance, improve compatibility, and strengthen security. Regular maintenance ensures smooth operation and ongoing protection against emerging threats.
Check for updates regularly in the Ledger Live app under the “Manager” section and confirm installation from the official source only.
By following these official steps, you ensure your Ledger device remains secure, functional, and reliable for managing your cryptocurrency portfolio. Ledger’s ecosystem is designed for maximum security without sacrificing usability — your private keys stay offline while Ledger Live provides a seamless interface for transactions and portfolio management.