Ledger Setup Guide — ledger.com/start

Welcome! This guide walks you through every step of setting up your Ledger hardware wallet securely, via the official setup path at ledger.com/start. Whether you're new to crypto or migrating from another wallet, following these steps closely will help ensure your assets remain safe.

1. Why Use ledger.com/start?

The very first and most important step is to begin your setup through the official Ledger site at ledger.com/start. This ensures you receive the correct and latest instructions, software downloads, and security checks. Avoid second‑hand, mirrored, or search‑engine result links that could be phishing traps.

Using ledger.com/start helps protect you from counterfeit or tampered devices, and ensures you only install the authentic Ledger Live application. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

2. What You’ll Need

• A new, sealed Ledger device (e.g. Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax)
• USB cable (included in box)
• A desktop or mobile device to install Ledger Live
• An active internet connection (for installing software, updates, etc.)
• Quiet space, preferably away from distractions, to write down and store your recovery phrase safely

3. Unbox and Verify Your Device

Carefully open the packaging and inspect the contents. The box should include:

• The Ledger hardware wallet
• USB cable
• Recovery phrase sheets (blank) or backup cards
• Quick start guide or instruction leaflet

Check that the security seal is intact and there is no evidence of tampering. If anything seems off or missing, stop and contact Ledger support or the authorized seller before proceeding. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

4. Visit ledger.com/start and Download Ledger Live

1. Open your browser and manually type in ledger.com/start (don’t click links from emails, social media, or ads).
2. Select your device model (e.g. Nano S Plus, Nano X, Stax) to get tailored instructions.
3. Download the Ledger Live app for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux) or mobile (iOS/Android). :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
4. Install the app following on‑screen prompts, accepting any permissions or security prompts.

5. Connect and Initialize Your Ledger Device

Once Ledger Live is installed, plug your Ledger device into your computer (or use Bluetooth for Nano X / Stax where applicable). Ledger Live will detect it and guide you through initialization. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

1. On your device, choose **“Set up as new device”** (unless you are restoring from a recovery phrase). :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
2. Create a PIN (4–8 digits). Enter it on the device screen—not on your computer. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
3. Your device will now generate a 24‑word recovery phrase. **Write each word, in order, on the provided sheet.** :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
4. Confirm the recovery phrase on-device when prompted (select the words in correct order). This verifies your backup. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

6. Pair and Verify in Ledger Live

After initialization, open Ledger Live and follow the “Get Started” flow:

1. Choose your Ledger model.
2. Follow the process to pair it—Ledger Live will perform an authenticity check to ensure your device is genuine. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
3. Grant permissions (if any) to allow communication between the app and your device.

7. Install Crypto Apps on the Device

To interact with a particular cryptocurrency (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.), you must install its app onto your Ledger device via Ledger Live:

1. In Ledger Live, go to the **Manager** section.
2. Browse apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.) and click **Install**. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
3. Each installed app enables your Ledger to sign transactions for that blockchain.

8. Add Accounts and Begin Managing Crypto

With apps installed, you can create accounts and begin using your wallet:

1. In Ledger Live, go to **Accounts → Add Account**.
2. Select a cryptocurrency (e.g. Bitcoin) and confirm via your Ledger device.
3. Ledger Live will fetch the blockchain data and display your account balance, receive addresses, and transaction history.
4. You can now send, receive, swap, or stake supported coins. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}

9. Send & Receive Crypto Securely

Receiving Funds

1. Select the account in Ledger Live, click **Receive**.
2. Verify address on your Ledger device screen before copying or displaying the QR code. Confirm that the address shown on your computer matches exactly on the device. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
3. Send funds from your exchange or wallet to that address.

Sending Funds

1. Select **Send** in Ledger Live and enter recipient address and amount.
2. Review transaction details (gas fees, network) carefully.
3. Your Ledger device will prompt you to confirm details before signing. This device-level confirmation ensures security. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}

10. Restoring from Your Recovery Phrase (if Needed)

If your Ledger device is lost, damaged, or replaced, you can restore access using your 24-word recovery phrase:

1. Use a new Ledger (or compatible hardware wallet) and go through the initialization.
2. Choose **Restore from recovery phrase** instead of “Set up as new device.”
3. Enter the 24 words in the correct order. Never enter them on a computer or mobile—only input them on the device. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
4. After restoration, reconnect to Ledger Live and add your accounts. Balances and transaction history will sync (public blockchain data). :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}

11. Firmware Updates & Maintenance

Ledger periodically releases firmware updates to improve security, add features, or patch vulnerabilities. To keep your device safe:

• Open Ledger Live → Manager → Firmware. If an update is available, follow instructions to update. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
• Always confirm update details on your device’s screen before accepting.
• Don’t interrupt the update process or unplug the device mid-update.

12. Advanced Tips & Security Best Practices

• Use a strong, unique PIN: Avoid sequential digits like “1234” or repeating numbers.
• Enable passphrase protection: Ledger supports an optional extra passphrase (a “25th word”) which creates hidden vaults. Use only if you understand how it works. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
• Store seed phrase securely: Consider metal seed storage for durability (fireproof, waterproof). Keep geographic separation (e.g. safe + secondary location).
• Don’t reuse your seed or PIN: Every Ledger should be fresh; don’t import old seeds unless you fully understand implications.
• Always verify URLs and SSL: Type in site URLs manually (e.g. ledger.com), never click links in untrusted emails or communities. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
• Test with small amount first: Before transferring large balances, send a small amount to confirm everything works correctly. Many users recommend this approach. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}
• Ignore unsolicited support contacts: Ledger support will never ask for your recovery phrase or approach you in private messages. Be cautious of impersonators. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}
• Use secure network: Avoid setting up your wallet or transacting from public Wi-Fi or network with uncertain trust.

13. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Device Not Recognized

• Try a different USB port or cable (use the original cable if available). :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}
• Restart your computer or mobile device.
• Ensure your operating system is up to date and that USB drivers are installed.
• Check for firmware or app updates in Ledger Live. :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}

Forgot PIN

If you enter the wrong PIN 3 times, the device resets. You can restore your wallet using your 24-word recovery phrase. Do not attempt to guess or circumvent—use the proper restore path. :contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}

Ledger.com/start Page Not Accessible

Sometimes the page may temporarily fail or DNS issues can cause access difficulties. Wait a moment, clear cache, or try a different browser. Always ensure you are visiting the correct URL ledger.com/start. :contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26}

14. FAQ (Quick Answers)

Can I set up Ledger using my phone only?

Yes, for certain models like Nano X or Stax via Bluetooth. But firmware updates often require USB and a desktop. :contentReference[oaicite:27]{index=27}

Do I need to enter my seed phrase to Ledger Live?

No. Your seed phrase is never entered into software. Ledger Live communicates with the device, which holds the keys. :contentReference[oaicite:28]{index=28}

What happens if I lose my device?

You can restore your wallet on another compatible device using your 24-word recovery phrase. :contentReference[oaicite:29]{index=29}

Does Ledger support staking, swapping, or NFTs?

Yes. Ledger Live includes integrations for buying, swapping, staking, and interacting with NFTs and Web3 apps. :contentReference[oaicite:30]{index=30}

15. Final Words & Next Steps

Congratulations — you’ve successfully set up your Ledger device and established a secure crypto environment. From here:

• Regularly check for firmware and app updates via Ledger Live.
• Familiarize yourself with staking, swapping, or Web3 interactions through Ledger Live integrations.
• Be vigilant about phishing attempts, unsolicited contacts, and fake sites.
• Keep your backup phrase safe and offline—it’s your ultimate recovery key.

For additional help, guides, and video tutorials, you can refer to Ledger’s official support center or check out their Ledger Support setup video. :contentReference[oaicite:31]{index=31}

Enjoy using Ledger with confidence—because your crypto deserves nothing less than hardware‑level protection.