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Ledger.com/Start® - Official Hardware Wallet Setup

Secure your cryptocurrency assets with Ledger's industry-leading hardware wallets. Follow our step-by-step guide to set up your device in minutes and protect your digital wealth with bank-level security.

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✓ Trusted by 4M+ users worldwide
✓ 5,500+ cryptocurrencies supported
✓ Bank-level security certified
LEDGER
🔒
₿
Ξ
🔑
4M+
Users Worldwide
5,500+
Cryptocurrencies
150+
Countries
99.9%
Uptime

Why Choose Ledger Hardware Wallets

🔒

Bank-Level Security

Ledger uses Secure Element chips, the same technology found in passports and credit cards, to provide military-grade security for your cryptocurrencies.

💎

Multi-Currency Support

Manage over 5,500 different cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and all major altcoins from a single secure interface.

📱

User-Friendly Interface

Ledger Live provides an intuitive dashboard to easily manage your portfolio, stake assets, and swap cryptocurrencies securely.

How to Set Up Your Ledger Device

1. Visit Ledger.com/start

Go to the official Ledger setup page at Ledger.com/start to begin the setup process. Ensure you're on the official website to avoid phishing attempts.

2. Download Ledger Live

Download the Ledger Live application for your operating system (Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, or Android). This is your gateway to managing your crypto assets.

3. Initialize Your Device

Connect your Ledger device and follow the on-screen instructions to initialize your wallet. Set a strong PIN code for device access.

4. Secure Recovery Phrase

Write down your 24-word recovery phrase and store it in a safe, offline location. This is your backup if you lose access to your device.

5. Install Applications

Install the cryptocurrency applications you need through Ledger Live. Each app corresponds to a specific cryptocurrency you want to manage.

6. Start Managing Assets

Begin securely managing your cryptocurrency assets through your Ledger device. Send, receive, and track your portfolio with peace of mind.

Choose Your Ledger Device

Nano X

Ledger Nano X

The advanced Bluetooth-enabled hardware wallet for managing your crypto on the go.

  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Large capacity for 100+ apps
  • Built-in battery
  • Mobile and desktop compatibility
$149.00
Buy Now
Nano S Plus

Ledger Nano S Plus

The affordable hardware wallet with enhanced storage and an improved user experience.

  • Enhanced storage capacity
  • USB-C connectivity
  • Large screen
  • 100+ crypto assets supported
$79.00
Buy Now
Stax

Ledger Stax

The revolutionary hardware wallet with a curved E Ink touchscreen for ultimate usability.

  • Curved E Ink touchscreen
  • Magnets for stacking
  • Wireless charging
  • Premium design
$279.00
Buy Now

What Our Users Say

"The Ledger Nano X has been a game-changer for my crypto security. Easy to set up and gives me peace of mind knowing my assets are safe."
MJ

Michael Johnson

Crypto Investor
"I've tried several hardware wallets, but Ledger's user experience is unmatched. The setup process was straightforward and the app is intuitive."
SR

Sarah Roberts

Blockchain Developer
"As someone new to crypto, I was worried about security. Ledger made it simple to protect my investments with their step-by-step setup guide."
DP

David Park

Beginner Investor

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Ledger Nano X and Ledger Nano S Plus? +

The Ledger Nano X features Bluetooth connectivity for mobile use and has more storage capacity for apps, while the Ledger Nano S Plus offers a larger screen and more memory than the original Nano S but requires USB connection.

Is my cryptocurrency safe if I lose my Ledger device? +

Yes, your funds remain safe as long as you have your 24-word recovery phrase. You can restore your wallet on a new Ledger device using this phrase. Your private keys never leave your device, so your assets are protected even if the physical device is lost or stolen.

How often should I update my Ledger device firmware? +

You should update your Ledger device firmware whenever a new version is available. These updates often include important security patches and new features. Ledger Live will notify you when updates are available.

Can I use my Ledger with multiple computers? +

Yes, you can use your Ledger device with multiple computers as long as Ledger Live is installed. Your private keys remain securely stored on the device itself, so you can safely connect to different computers without compromising security.

What cryptocurrencies does Ledger support? +

Ledger supports over 5,500 cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Binance Coin, Cardano, Solana, Ripple, Polkadot, and all major ERC-20 tokens. The full list is available in the Ledger Live application.

Ready to Secure Your Crypto Assets?

Join millions of users worldwide who trust Ledger to protect their digital wealth. Get started today with our easy setup process.

Start at Ledger.com/start Compare Devices

Your Ultimate Guide to Ledger.com/start | Secure Your Crypto Journey

Just unboxed your Ledger device? Our step-by-step guide to Ledger.com/start walks you through setup, security best practices, and first transactions. Start securing your crypto assets today.

Welcome to Your Ledger Device: Let's Get Started

Congratulations on taking a monumental step towards securing your cryptocurrency assets. By choosing a Ledger hardware wallet, you've selected the industry gold standard for protecting your digital wealth from online threats. This guide is your dedicated companion for the Ledger.com/start setup process, designed to make your initiation into the world of self-custody both simple and secure.

We'll walk you through everything from unboxing your device to making your first transaction. Let's turn that new device into your personal, ultra-secure vault.

Before You Begin: Crucial Preliminaries

Before you even connect your Ledger device, there are a few vital steps to ensure a smooth and secure setup.

  1. Purchase from an Official Source: The most critical security step happens before setup. Ensure you purchased your Ledger device directly from Ledger.com or an authorized reseller. This guarantees the device hasn't been tampered with.
  2. Check the Tamper-Evident Seal: Your Ledger device comes in a box sealed with anti-tampering stickers. Verify that these seals are intact and have not been broken. If they are compromised, do not use the device and contact Ledger Support immediately.
  3. Download Ledger Live: Ledger Live is the essential application that allows you to manage your crypto assets. It is the only official software companion for your Ledger device.
    • Visit the official website: Go directly to Ledger.com/start.
    • Download for your OS: Download Ledger Live for your desktop (Windows, macOS, or Linux). Avoid mobile setup for your first time for a more comprehensive experience.
  4. Gather Your Equipment: Have your Ledger device, the supplied USB cable, and your recovery sheet (the card included in the box) ready.

Phase 1: Device Setup and Initialization

Now, let's bring your hardware wallet to life.

Step 1: Connect and Power On
Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the USB cable. The device will automatically power on.

Step 2: Configure as New Device
When prompted on the device's screen, use the right/left buttons to navigate and both buttons to select "Configure as New Device."

Step 3: Your 24-Word Recovery Phrase (The Most Important Step)
This is the heart of your security. Your device will now generate a unique 24-word recovery phrase, also known as a seed phrase.

  • Write it Down Manually: You will be presented with words, one by one, on the device screen. Write each word in the exact order on your provided recovery sheet. Do not type it on a computer or phone. Do not take a screenshot.
  • The Ledger's Role: This phrase is the master key to your entire wallet. The Ledger device's primary job is to store this phrase offline, in its secure chip, away from internet-connected devices.
  • Guard It With Your Life: Anyone with access to these 24 words can access and steal your funds. Store the sheet in a safe, secure, and private location, like a fireproof safe or a safety deposit box.

Step 4: Confirm Your Recovery Phrase
To ensure you recorded the phrase correctly, your device will ask you to re-enter a selection of the words. This is a crucial verification step—do not skip it.

Step 5: Set a PIN Code
You will now set a 4 to 8-digit PIN code. This PIN is required every time you connect and unlock your Ledger device. It acts as a first line of defense, protecting the device even if it's physically lost or stolen.

Phase 2: Installing Ledger Live and Adding Accounts

With your device initialized, it's time to connect it to the Ledger Live software.

Step 1: Install & Open Ledger Live
Run the Ledger Live installer you downloaded from Ledger.com/start. Open the application once installed.

Step 2: Follow the On-Screen Setup
Ledger Live will guide you through a few configuration choices. Select "Ledger Device" when asked how you want to set up the app.

Step 3: Genuine Check
The application will perform a "Genuine Check" to verify the authenticity of your Ledger device. This is a final, automated security measure to confirm you are using a true Ledger product. Follow the on-screen prompts on both Ledger Live and your device screen.

Step 4: Install Apps
To manage different cryptocurrencies, you need to install their respective "apps" onto your Ledger device.

  • In Ledger Live, go to the "My Ledger" tab.
  • Your device will display "Processing..." or "Allow Ledger Manager."
  • Find the crypto assets you own (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) and click "Install." The app is installed directly onto the limited storage of your Ledger device.

Step 5: Create Your First Crypto Account
Now, you can create accounts for each cryptocurrency.

  • Go to the "Accounts" tab in Ledger Live.
  • Click "Add Account."
  • Select the cryptocurrency (e.g., Bitcoin).
  • The application will synchronize with your device and generate a receiving address for you.

Phase 3: Your First Transaction: Receiving Crypto

You're all set! Let's receive some crypto into your new, secure wallet.

  1. In Ledger Live, go to the account you want to receive funds in (e.g., your Bitcoin account).
  2. Click "Receive."
  3. The application will ask you to Connect your Ledger device and open the corresponding app (e.g., the Bitcoin app). This is a key security feature—your device verifies the address.
  4. Once connected, a receiving address (a long string of letters and numbers) and a QR code will appear.
  5. Verify the Address on Your Device Screen: Crucially, the same address displayed in Ledger Live should be visible on your Ledger device's screen. Double-check this! If they match, confirm the address on the device.
  6. Use this verified address to receive funds from an exchange or another wallet.

Best Practices for Long-Term Security

Your journey doesn't end here. Maintain your security with these habits:

  • Never Share Your 24 Words: Ledger will NEVER ask for your recovery phrase. Any website, email, or person requesting it is a scammer.
  • Keep Your Firmware Updated: Regularly use Ledger Live to update your device's firmware and apps. These updates include critical security patches.
  • Verify, Then Trust: Always verify receiving and sending addresses on your device's screen, not just on your computer monitor.
  • Safeguard Your Recovery Sheet: Consider investing in a sturdy metal backup solution to protect your recovery phrase from physical damage like fire or water.