Welcome to your complete guide to getting started with Ledger® hardware wallets. If you’ve just purchased a Ledger device or are planning to secure your crypto assets, this step-by-step presentation-style guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Whether you're new to cryptocurrency or an experienced investor, Ledger provides industry-leading security to protect your digital assets. Let’s get started.

🔐 What Is Ledger.com/Start®?

Ledger.com/Start® is the official onboarding page for setting up your Ledger hardware wallet safely and correctly. It ensures that:

• You download authentic Ledger Live™ software
• You initialize your device securely
• You avoid phishing or counterfeit risks
• You properly back up your recovery phrase

⚠️ Always use the official website when setting up your device.

📦 Step 1: Unbox and Verify Your Ledger Device

When you receive your Ledger hardware wallet (Ledger Nano S Plus™ or Ledger Nano X™), follow these checks:

✅ Inside the Box:

• Ledger hardware wallet
• USB cable
• Recovery sheets
• Instruction card
• Keychain accessories (optional)

🔎 Important Security Check:

• Ledger devices do not come with a pre-written recovery phrase.
• If your box includes a pre-filled phrase, do not use the device.
• The device should power on and allow you to configure it from scratch.

Ledger devices use a Secure Element chip for maximum protection.

💻 Step 2: Download Ledger Live™

To manage your crypto assets, you need Ledger Live™, the official companion app.

🔽 How to Download:

1. Visit Ledger.com/Start®
2. Select your device model
3. Choose your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android)
4. Download and install Ledger Live™

Ledger Live allows you to:

• Install apps for different cryptocurrencies
• Check balances in real time
• Send and receive crypto securely
• Buy, sell, swap, and stake assets
• Manage NFTs

⚙️ Step 3: Initialize Your Ledger Device

After installing Ledger Live:

🔌 Connect Your Device

• Plug your Ledger into your computer or mobile device
• Power it on

🆕 Choose Setup Option

You will see two options:

• Set up as new device
• Restore from recovery phrase

If you’re new, choose Set up as new device.

🔑 Step 4: Create a Secure PIN Code

Your PIN code protects physical access to your wallet.

🔐 PIN Tips:

• Choose a 4–8 digit PIN
• Avoid simple combinations (1234, 0000, birthdates)
• Never share your PIN with anyone

If someone enters the wrong PIN three times, the device resets for security.

📝 Step 5: Write Down Your Recovery Phrase

This is the most important step.

Your Ledger device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase.

⚠️ Critical Security Rule:

• Write it down on the provided recovery sheet
• Store it offline in a secure location
• Never take a photo of it
• Never store it digitally
• Never share it with anyone

Your recovery phrase is the only backup of your crypto assets.
If lost, your funds cannot be recovered.

🔄 Step 6: Confirm Your Recovery Phrase

Ledger will ask you to confirm the words in order.

This ensures:

• You wrote them correctly
• You can restore access if needed

Take your time during this step.

📲 Step 7: Install Crypto Apps

Now you’re ready to add crypto accounts.

Inside Ledger Live:

1. Go to Manager
2. Allow access on your device
3. Install apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.)
4. Add accounts

Each cryptocurrency requires its own app.

💰 Step 8: Send & Receive Crypto

📥 To Receive:

• Open Ledger Live
• Click “Receive”
• Select account
• Verify address on your device screen
• Share the verified address

📤 To Send:

• Click “Send”
• Enter recipient address
• Confirm transaction on device screen

Always verify transaction details on your Ledger device screen — not just your computer.

🛡️ Why Ledger Is Secure

Ledger devices protect your private keys by:

• Storing them offline (cold storage)
• Using a Secure Element chip
• Requiring physical confirmation for transactions
• Keeping recovery phrases offline

Even if your computer has malware, your private keys remain protected.

🚨 Common Security Tips

• Only use Ledger.com/Start® for setup
• Ignore emails asking for your recovery phrase
• Ledger Support™ will never ask for your 24 words
• Double-check URLs to avoid phishing
• Keep firmware updated via Ledger Live

🔄 What If You Lose Your Device?

If your Ledger is lost or damaged:

1. Purchase a new Ledger device
2. Choose “Restore from recovery phrase”
3. Enter your 24 words

Your funds will reappear.

Without the recovery phrase, access is permanently lost.

🌍 Supported Cryptocurrencies

Ledger supports 5,000+ coins and tokens including:

• Bitcoin (BTC)
• Ethereum (ETH)
• Solana (SOL)
• XRP
• Cardano (ADA)
• USDT / USDC
• Polygon (MATIC)
• NFTs

Support varies by device model.

📊 Advanced Features

Ledger Live also offers:

• Crypto staking
• NFT management
• DeFi integrations
• Portfolio tracking
• Buy/Sell via partners
• Swap functionality

These services may vary by region.

🎯 Final Checklist Before Using Your Wallet

✔ PIN created
✔ 24-word phrase written safely
✔ Apps installed
✔ Ledger Live verified
✔ Test transaction completed

Once done, your crypto is protected with hardware-level security.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Ledger.com/Start® the only safe setup page?

Yes. Always use the official Ledger website to download Ledger Live and begin setup. Avoid third-party links.

2. Can Ledger recover my funds if I lose my recovery phrase?

No. Ledger does not store your recovery phrase. If lost, your funds cannot be restored.

3. What happens if I enter the wrong PIN?

After three incorrect attempts, the device resets. You will need your 24-word recovery phrase to restore access.

4. Can I use Ledger without Ledger Live?

Ledger Live is the official interface, but advanced users may connect Ledger devices to supported third-party wallets for certain assets.

5. Is Ledger safe from hackers?

Yes. Ledger stores private keys offline inside a Secure Element chip. However, users must protect their recovery phrase to maintain security.