Ledger.com/start

Ledger Device Setup — Initialize Your Ledger, Secure Your Crypto

Complete Ledger Device Setup — Secure initialization & best practices

Welcome to Ledger.com/start — your step-by-step guide to initialize a Ledger hardware wallet and begin managing cryptocurrencies with confidence. This guide walks you through downloading Ledger Live, securely initializing your Ledger device (Nano S, Nano S Plus, Nano X), backing up the recovery phrase, updating firmware, and best security practices for long-term custody.

Why follow the official Ledger.com/start process?

Using the official start process reduces risk. Installing Ledger Live from the official source and following Ledger.com/start ensures that you use genuine Ledger software, avoid phishing, and complete device initialization correctly. Ledger hardware wallets keep private keys offline; Ledger Live helps you interact with the blockchain while keys remain protected inside the device.

Quick setup — step-by-step

1. Download Ledger Live: Visit Ledger.com/start and download Ledger Live for Windows, macOS or Linux (or get the mobile app for iOS/Android).
2. Install & verify: Install Ledger Live and verify the HTTPS origin. Optionally check the provided checksums for added safety.
3. Connect your device: Use the original USB cable to connect your Ledger Nano S / Nano X to your computer. Unlock your device to proceed.
4. Initialize or restore: Choose create a new wallet or restore from an existing recovery seed. If creating new, set a strong PIN on the device — never use obvious PINs.
5. Backup your recovery phrase: Ledger shows a 24-word recovery phrase. Write it down exactly as shown and store it offline (paper, metal backup). Never photograph or store it digitally.
6. Add accounts: Add Bitcoin, Ethereum and other supported accounts in Ledger Live. Confirm addresses and transactions directly on the device before broadcasting.

Core features & what to expect

Hardware-first security

Private keys are generated and stored on the Ledger device; signing occurs on-device to prevent key exposure.

Firmware & app management

Ledger Live helps you install official apps and firmware updates safely to keep your device protected.

Multi-asset support

Manage Bitcoin, Ethereum, ERC-20 tokens and many other blockchains from one interface.

Transaction confirmation

Every transaction must be reviewed and approved on the Ledger device screen to prevent unauthorized transfers.

Security tips for long-term custody

  • Only download Ledger Live from Ledger.com/start and verify HTTPS + domain.
  • Never store your recovery phrase or PIN electronically (no photos, no cloud). Physical/multipoint offline storage is best.
  • Confirm addresses on-screen — malware may alter addresses on your computer but cannot change what the device displays.
  • Consider a metal backup for recovery seed protection against fire/water damage.
  • Enable a passphrase for an extra account layer only if you understand the recovery implications.

Troubleshooting — Ledger Live doesn't detect device?

If Ledger Live fails to detect your device: try another USB cable or port, ensure the device screen is unlocked, check that no other apps hold the port, restart Ledger Live and your computer. For web-based connections, confirm any required bridge software is installed. Contact official support if problems persist.