Welcome to the official setup guide for Ledger.com/Start®, your trusted destination for beginning your crypto security journey. Ledger is a world-renowned hardware wallet brand that helps you safeguard your digital assets offline. Through this step-by-step guide, you will learn how to set up your device, secure your recovery phrase, and start managing your cryptocurrency confidently and safely.
A Ledger hardware wallet is a compact, secure device that stores the private keys to your cryptocurrency offline. Unlike online wallets or exchanges that can be vulnerable to hacking, a hardware wallet keeps your information disconnected from the internet, ensuring maximum protection. Devices like the Ledger Nano X and Ledger Nano S Plus offer advanced security with user-friendly interfaces suitable for both beginners and experienced crypto investors.
When you receive your Ledger hardware wallet, carefully check that the packaging is sealed and intact. Ledger never ships devices with pre-configured settings or recovery phrases. If your device appears opened or includes a pre-written seed phrase, do not use it. Contact official support immediately, as this may indicate tampering.
Inside the box, you’ll find your Ledger device, a USB cable, a quick start guide, and recovery sheets for your 24-word recovery phrase. Handle these materials carefully and store them in a secure place.
Once you are ready to begin, power on your Ledger device and follow the instructions displayed on the screen. The setup process is intuitive and guides you through initialization. At this stage, you’ll create a PIN code to secure your device. This PIN will be required every time you access your Ledger wallet, so make sure it is strong and unique.
The most critical step during setup is recording your 24-word recovery phrase. This unique phrase acts as the master key to all your crypto accounts. Write each word carefully on the recovery sheet provided and double-check the spelling and order. Never share your recovery phrase with anyone, and never store it digitally. Keep it offline in a private, safe location.
Your recovery phrase allows you to restore access to your funds if your Ledger device is lost or damaged. Losing this phrase means permanently losing access to your assets, so take this step seriously.
Ledger Live is the official companion application used to manage your assets, install crypto apps, and track your portfolio. Once installed on your computer or mobile device, connect your Ledger wallet using the USB cable or Bluetooth (for Nano X). Follow the on-screen instructions to add your crypto accounts.
Within Ledger Live, you can view balances, send and receive transactions, and manage multiple currencies in one secure interface. Every transaction you approve must be confirmed directly on your Ledger device, ensuring an extra layer of security.
After setting up Ledger Live, you can begin adding supported cryptocurrencies. Ledger supports a wide range of assets including Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Litecoin, and hundreds more. To add an asset, install the corresponding app from Ledger Live, create an account, and start transacting securely.
Each transaction requires manual confirmation on your Ledger device, protecting you against unauthorized or malicious activity. This hands-on approval process is what makes Ledger hardware wallets the gold standard in crypto security.
Ledger frequently updates its firmware and Ledger Live application to improve functionality and strengthen protection. Always ensure your device is running the latest version. Updates are simple to install and are verified through secure channels to maintain the integrity of your wallet.
Avoid sharing any sensitive information or engaging with unofficial sites pretending to be Ledger. Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase, PIN, or any private details via email or social media.
Once your setup is complete, it’s essential to maintain good security habits. Store your recovery sheet in a waterproof and fireproof location. Avoid saving it on your phone or computer. If possible, use a secure backup such as a metal recovery plate for long-term durability.
Keep your Ledger device in a safe place when not in use. Treat it like a physical key to your financial freedom — because that’s exactly what it is.
Getting started with Ledger.com/Start® is simple, yet it represents one of the most powerful steps toward true ownership of your digital assets. With your Ledger hardware wallet, you are in full control of your crypto, protected by world-class security and offline storage. Follow each step carefully, protect your recovery phrase, and update your software regularly to maintain the highest level of safety.
Your journey into the world of cryptocurrency deserves peace of mind — and Ledger makes that possible through innovation, trust, and simplicity.