Ledger.com/start – Official Hardware Wallet Setup Guide
In the world of cryptocurrencies, security and control are fundamental. Whether you're just buying your first Bitcoin or building out a diversified portfolio of digital assets, keeping your private keys safe is critical. That’s why hardware wallets exist — they offer offline, tamper‑resistant storage for your most valuable digital assets.
Ledger hardware wallets, like the Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X, are among the most trusted devices in the space. But owning the hardware is just the first step — you need to set it up correctly to maximize security. That’s where Ledger.com/start, the official hardware wallet setup guide, comes in. This step‑by‑step walkthrough helps you securely initialize your Ledger device and start managing your crypto with confidence.
Why Use Ledger Hardware Wallets?
Unlike software wallets or custodial services, hardware wallets keep your private keys offline. Private keys are what grant access to your cryptocurrencies. If these keys are stored on an internet‑connected device, they can be vulnerable to malware, hacks, and phishing. Ledger’s hardware wallets store these keys in a secure chip, isolated from your computer or phone.
Setting up your device at Ledger.com/start ensures a secure, officially supported process that:
Protects your private keys
Prevents unauthorized access
Reduces risk of digital theft
Gives you full self‑custody of your assets
Getting Ready: What You Need Before You Start
Before heading to Ledger.com/start, make sure you have:
Your Ledger device (Nano S Plus or Nano X)
A USB cable (included with your device)
A computer or mobile device
A stable internet connection
A secure place to save your recovery sheet
Important Security Tip: Never set up your Ledger device on a device you suspect is infected with malware or spyware.
Step 1: Visit Ledger.com/start
Open your browser and go to the official setup page:
👉 Ledger.com/start
This page guides you through the official setup process — it’s the only place you should start. Avoid clicking links in emails or ads, which could be phishing attempts.
Once there, select your Ledger device model (Nano S Plus or Nano X) to begin.
Step 2: Download Ledger Live
After selecting your device, you’ll be prompted to download Ledger Live — Ledger’s official wallet management software.
Ledger Live is the hub that lets you:
Set up your device
Manage your crypto accounts
Send and receive assets
Track portfolio performance
Update firmware
Download the correct version for your operating system:
Windows
macOS
Linux
Android / iOS (via app stores)
Install and open Ledger Live. Once launched, you’ll be ready to begin the setup process.
Step 3: Start the Setup in Ledger Live
With Ledger Live open:
Click “Get Started”
Choose “Initialize as a new device”
Select your Ledger model
You’ll see on‑screen instructions guiding you through the process.
Step 4: Connect Your Ledger Device
Use the included USB cable to connect your Ledger device to your computer or mobile device. Once connected, Ledger Live will detect the device and prompt you to continue.
Step 5: Choose a PIN Code
You’ll be asked to select a secure PIN code. This PIN:
Protects your device from unauthorized access
Is required every time you connect the wallet
Best Practice: Choose a PIN that is easy for you to remember but hard for others to guess.
The device will show a number grid to help you enter your PIN securely — this protects against keyloggers.
Step 6: Write Down Your Recovery Phrase
Once your PIN is set, your Ledger device will generate a recovery phrase — typically 24 words. This is the most important part of your setup.
The recovery phrase is:
Your backup in case the device is lost, stolen, or damaged
The only way to access your crypto if the device fails
Important:
Write these words down exactly as shown
Do not take a photo or store them digitally
Keep them in a secure, offline place (e.g., safe, lockbox)
Never share your recovery phrase with anyone. Ledger support will never ask for it.
Step 7: Confirm Your Recovery Phrase
After writing down the 24 words, Ledger Live will ask you to verify them by selecting them in order. This ensures you’ve recorded the phrase correctly.
If a mistake is made here, the wallet will alert you — better to catch it now than lose access later.
Step 8: Install Apps for Your Cryptocurrencies
Once the recovery phrase is confirmed, Ledger Live allows you to install apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage. These include:
Bitcoin
Ethereum
Solana
Cardano
And many more
Each blockchain has its own app in Ledger Live, which you install onto your Ledger device.
Step 9: Add Accounts in Ledger Live
After installing the necessary apps:
Go to Accounts in Ledger Live
Click Add Account
Choose the crypto asset
Ledger Live will sync and show your balances
Now your wallet is ready to send and receive crypto.
Step 10: Optional – Enable Bluetooth (Nano X)
If you’re using a Ledger Nano X, you can enable Bluetooth to connect your wallet wirelessly with mobile devices. It’s convenient for on‑the‑go management, but always ensure you’re pairing in a secure environment.
Security Tips During and After Setup
🔐 Always Use Official Resources
Only use Ledger.com/start and the official Ledger Live app — never third‑party downloads or links.
✋ Never Share Your Recovery Phrase
Your recovery phrase is your keys. Sharing it with anyone is the same as handing over your crypto.
🛡️ Keep Your Device Updated
Check for firmware updates regularly in Ledger Live.
💡 Confirm Transactions on the Device
Always verify recipient addresses and amounts on the Ledger screen — not just in the software.
📁 Secure Backup Storage
Store your recovery sheet in a safe, offline location — not in cloud storage or digital photos.
Common Setup Questions
❓ What If I Lose My Ledger Device?
If your device is lost, you can restore your accounts using your recovery phrase on a new Ledger device or compatible hardware wallet.
❓ Can I Use Ledger Live With Multiple Devices?
Yes. Ledger Live supports multiple devices — simply connect each device and set them up individually.
❓ Is Ledger Live Safe?
Yes. Ledger Live is official wallet software designed to work with Ledger devices. It never stores private keys and only interacts with the blockchain via secure communication to the hardware wallet.
❓ Do I Need Internet to Set Up?
Yes — Ledger Live needs internet access to download apps, sync balances, and install updates. But your private keys remain offline on your device throughout.
Why Ledger.com/start Is the Only Safe Setup Path
Phishing attacks targeting crypto users are widespread. Fake setup pages, fraudulent downloads, and malicious links can compromise your device before it’s even configured. Accessing Ledger.com/start ensures:
You’re using official instructions
Downloading the correct Ledger Live app
Avoiding fraudulent or malicious software
A guided, secure setup experience
Never trust setup information sent via unsolicited emails or social media ads — always go to the official source.
Final Thoughts
Setting up a Ledger hardware wallet at Ledger.com/start is the first step toward secure, self‑custodial crypto ownership. This official guide ensures you initialize your device correctly, protect your recovery phrase, and link your hardware wallet to Ledger Live — the trusted management interface.
With cyber threats constantly evolving, taking the right steps from the beginning can make all the difference. By following the official Ledger setup guide, you ensure your digital assets remain safe, accessible, and fully under your control.
Whether you’re a beginner just entering the crypto space or an experienced investor looking to secure your portfolio, Ledger’s official setup process at Ledger.com/start gives you the confidence and peace of mind you deserve.