Welcome to Ledger Start, the official guide to setting up and securing your Ledger® hardware wallet. Take the first step toward complete digital ownership today.
Ledger Start is your official companion guide to initializing and using your Ledger® hardware wallet securely. Whether you’ve purchased a Ledger Nano X, Nano S Plus, or any future model, this resource walks you through every step — from unboxing your device to safeguarding your private keys.
Cryptocurrency ownership comes with responsibility. By setting up your wallet correctly, you ensure your digital assets are fully protected against online threats, scams, and hardware loss. With Ledger Start, your journey begins on the right path — securely and confidently.
Ledger wallets are physical devices that store your private keys offline, keeping them away from hackers and malware. Unlike software wallets or exchanges, your keys never leave the Ledger device, giving you complete control over your funds.
When you unbox your Ledger®, ensure that it’s sealed and untampered. Visit ledger.com/start — the official start page — to confirm the authenticity of your device. Ledger devices are packaged with a unique cryptographic attestation system that automatically checks authenticity upon connection.
Never purchase Ledger devices from unofficial third-party resellers. Always buy directly from the official Ledger website or verified partners.
Ledger Live is the official application for managing your Ledger wallet. It allows you to install apps on your device, create new accounts, and send or receive crypto securely.
Once installed, open Ledger Live and connect your Ledger® device via USB or Bluetooth (for Nano X). Follow the on-screen setup instructions.
Turn on your Ledger® wallet. Choose “Set up as new device.” The device will generate your private keys and display a unique 24-word recovery phrase — your ultimate backup.
Carefully write down the words in order on the provided recovery sheet. Never take a photo or store it digitally. This recovery phrase is the only way to restore access if your Ledger is lost or damaged.
Your Ledger® will prompt you to create a 4–8 digit PIN code. This code protects your wallet from unauthorized physical access. Avoid simple combinations and keep it private.
If someone tries to guess your PIN three times incorrectly, your device automatically wipes itself to prevent brute-force attacks.
After initializing your device, open Ledger Live and navigate to the “My Ledger” tab. From here, install crypto-specific apps (like Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Solana) directly onto your device.
Each app allows your wallet to generate the correct addresses and verify transactions for that specific cryptocurrency. You can manage multiple coins simultaneously without compromising security.
Once your crypto apps are installed, add corresponding accounts within Ledger Live. Each account generates a unique public address for receiving funds.
Always verify receiving addresses directly on your Ledger device screen. This ensures that no malicious software has altered them on your computer.
When sending crypto, enter the recipient’s address and amount within Ledger Live. The transaction will appear on your Ledger device screen for physical verification.
Confirm the transaction only if the details match exactly. Press both buttons simultaneously to approve. The device then signs the transaction internally — your private keys never leave the wallet.
Ledger frequently releases firmware and app updates to improve functionality and security. You’ll be notified within Ledger Live whenever updates are available.
Always install updates from official Ledger sources. Avoid connecting your device to unknown computers or downloading firmware files manually.
Ledger continues to innovate, providing secure hardware and software integration to support growing blockchain ecosystems.
If your device isn’t recognized or you encounter setup issues, try these steps:
Visit support.ledger.com for official troubleshooting guides and FAQs.
By using Ledger®, you embrace self-custody — full ownership and control of your crypto assets. Unlike exchanges that hold your keys, Ledger ensures only you can access and move your funds.
In the world of decentralized finance, self-custody is the cornerstone of true financial independence. Ledger gives you the tools to protect your freedom securely.
Ledger Start is more than just a setup guide — it’s your foundation for a safe, confident crypto journey. By following these steps, you’ve established a secure environment where only you control your digital wealth.
With Ledger Live and your Ledger® hardware wallet, you can buy, sell, stake, and manage your crypto portfolio knowing your private keys are offline and secure.
Take charge of your future — start with security, start with Ledger.
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