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Get started with Ledger — Ledger.com/start

This colorful, one‑page guide walks you through setting up your Ledger hardware wallet safely using the official route at Ledger.com/start. You'll find step‑by‑step instructions, security tips, and answers to common questions, with ten official links for quick access.

Open Official Setup Jump to 10 Official Links

H2 — Overview: What you’ll do

Setting up a Ledger wallet is about creating a secure environment for your crypto. You will: install Ledger Live, initialize your device, set a PIN, generate and back up your 24‑word recovery phrase, and add apps for the coins you plan to manage. Everything begins at Ledger.com/start, which ensures you download authentic software and follow current guidance.

H3 — Prerequisites

  • A new or factory‑reset Ledger device (e.g., Nano X, Nano S Plus).
  • A computer (Windows, macOS, or Linux) or a compatible smartphone for Ledger Live.
  • A pen and a quiet space to write and store your recovery phrase securely.
  • A USB cable (or Bluetooth for Nano X with mobile).

H3 — Step‑by‑step setup

H4 — 1) Go to the official start page

Visit Ledger.com/start. Verify the URL before downloading anything.

H4 — 2) Install Ledger Live

Download Ledger Live for your operating system from the official page and install it. Open the app and choose Get started. If prompted to update firmware during setup, read the on‑screen warnings and proceed only if recommended.

H4 — 3) Initialize your device

Connect your Ledger device via USB (or Bluetooth where applicable). On the device, select Set up as new unless you are restoring from a recovery phrase.

H4 — 4) Create a strong PIN

Choose a PIN code directly on the device. Memorize it and avoid reusing PINs from other devices. Your PIN protects local access; do not share it.

H4 — 5) Write down the 24‑word recovery phrase

Your device will display 24 words in order. Write them down carefully on paper (or a durable backup medium). Never type the phrase into a website, take photos, store it in cloud notes, or share it with anyone.

H4 — 6) Confirm the phrase on‑device

The device will ask you to confirm the words. This proves you copied them correctly. Keep the written phrase in a separate, secure location from the device.

H4 — 7) Add accounts in Ledger Live

In Ledger Live, install the apps for the cryptocurrencies you use (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). Then add accounts. The device will confirm address derivations for security.

H4 — 8) Receive first, then send

Before sending funds, use Receive to generate an address and verify on the device screen that the address shown in Ledger Live matches your device. Once confirmed, you can safely deposit and later make test sends.

H4 — 9) Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated

Updates often include security and compatibility improvements. Only update through Ledger Live and only with your recovery phrase safely backed up and offline.

H5 — Pro tip

Consider making a second written copy of your recovery phrase and storing it in a different secure place. Redundancy reduces single‑point‑of‑failure risk.

H2 — Troubleshooting & Recovery

H3 — Common issues

H4 — Ledger Live won’t detect my device

  • Try a different USB cable/port and ensure the device is unlocked.
  • Close other apps that might use USB (e.g., other crypto tools).
  • Make sure you’re using the latest Ledger Live from the official page.

H4 — I lost my device

Stay calm. Your funds are on the blockchain, protected by your 24‑word phrase. Get a new Ledger or a compatible wallet and choose Restore from recovery phrase. Enter the 24 words on the device, not on any website.

H4 — Firmware update failed

Reconnect the device, reopen Ledger Live, and follow the recovery steps. Ensure you have your recovery phrase secured before attempting any update.

H5 — When to contact support

If you’re unsure, stop and consult official resources via Ledger.com/start. Never share your recovery phrase.

H2 — FAQs (H3–H5 inside)

H3 — Is Ledger Live required?

For the smoothest experience and official updates, yes—Ledger Live is the recommended companion app you obtain from Ledger.com/start.

H4 — Can I use my Ledger with multiple computers?

Yes. Your private keys never leave the device. You can connect to different Ledger Live installations and manage the same accounts as long as you verify addresses on the device.

H5 — What if my recovery phrase is compromised?

If anyone else has your 24 words, consider funds compromised. Move assets to a new wallet generated from a new device and a fresh recovery phrase as soon as possible.

H3 — Do I need to buy coins first?

No. You can set up the device and accounts before holding any crypto. When ready, deposit to a verified address shown on the device screen.

H4 — Does Ledger know my balances?

No. The device holds your keys locally. Ledger Live queries public blockchains or nodes to display balances; your keys remain offline within the device.

H5 — Can I stake or use DeFi?

Many networks support staking and DeFi via Ledger Live or third‑party apps. Always confirm dApp connections and transactions on the device display before approving.

H2 — Best Practices Recap

  • Bookmark https://www.ledger.com/start and use it for downloads and guidance.
  • Keep your 24‑word phrase offline, private, and legible.
  • Verify every address on the device screen before sending.
  • Perform a small test transaction when moving funds to a new address.
  • Update Ledger Live and firmware thoughtfully, with backups secured.