Ledger Live Setup

Ledger.com/Start – Complete Ledger Wallet Setup Guide

Welcome to Ledger.com/start, your official guide to safely setting up your Ledger hardware wallet. This guide is designed for both beginners and advanced users and covers all essential steps to get started with Ledger Nano X, Ledger Nano S Plus, or transferring from another wallet. Ledger devices store private keys offline in a secure element, giving you full control over your assets and protecting them from unauthorized access. Proper setup ensures the safety of your cryptocurrency holdings.

1. Unbox and Power On Your Ledger Device

Verify that your Ledger device is untampered and authentic. Power it on and follow the on-screen instructions. You will be asked to set up a new wallet or restore an existing one. Always interact directly with the physical device, and carefully follow each step.

2. Visit Ledger.com/Start

Open a browser and navigate to Ledger.com/start to download Ledger Live. Ledger Live is the official application that allows you to manage your portfolio, buy and sell crypto, swap tokens, stake, and monitor your holdings. Always verify that you are on the official Ledger domain to avoid phishing or malware risks.

3. Install Ledger Live

Download the version compatible with your operating system. Launch Ledger Live and choose “Initialize new device” if this is your first setup. Ledger Live will guide you through firmware updates and help you create a secure PIN. Your PIN protects access to your device and should be memorable but hard to guess.

4. Secure Your 24-Word Recovery Phrase

Ledger generates a 24-word recovery phrase, which is the master key to restore your wallet if the device is lost or damaged. Write it down carefully on the provided sheet and store it offline in a secure location. Never take pictures, store digitally, or share it. Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase; sharing it may compromise your assets.

5. Install Cryptocurrency Apps

Ledger requires separate apps for different blockchains. In Ledger Live, navigate to “My Ledger” to install apps for cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and more. These apps allow your device to sign transactions securely and manage your assets safely.

6. Add Accounts

Once apps are installed, create corresponding accounts inside Ledger Live. Each account generates receiving addresses. Always verify addresses on your Ledger device screen to prevent malware or phishing attacks.

7. Receive and Manage Crypto

With accounts created, you can safely receive cryptocurrency. Ledger Live provides verified addresses. You can also send, swap, stake, and monitor your portfolio while your private keys remain offline and secure.

8. Staking, Swapping, and Portfolio Tracking

Ledger Live allows you to stake supported coins such as Ethereum, DOT, and ATOM, perform token swaps, and monitor your portfolio performance. All operations are verified on-device to maintain high-level security while enjoying full control and convenience.

9. Security Best Practices

  • Never share your 24-word recovery phrase.
  • Always use Ledger.com/start for official downloads and instructions.
  • Verify all receiving and sending addresses on your device before confirming transactions.
  • Keep Ledger Live and device firmware up-to-date.
  • Store your recovery phrase offline and in a secure location.