Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® — Getting started

A step-by-step guide to setting up your Ledger hardware wallet and Ledger Live.

Introduction

Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding page for Ledger hardware wallets. This guide walks you through downloading Ledger Live, initializing your device (Nano S / Nano X / Stax / Flex), securing your recovery phrase, verifying device authenticity, and best practices to keep your crypto safe.

What you need before you start

  • Your Ledger device and original USB cable (or Bluetooth for Nano X).
  • A computer (Windows, macOS, Linux) or a compatible mobile device.
  • Stable internet connection for downloading Ledger Live and firmware updates.
  • Paper and pen for writing down your recovery phrase — never store it digitally.

Step-by-step setup

  1. Go to ledger.com/start

    Open your browser and visit ledger.com/start to get the latest Ledger Live download and guided setup instructions tailored to your device and operating system.

  2. Download Ledger Live

    Choose the correct installer for your OS (Windows/macOS/Linux) or mobile store (iOS/Android). Only download Ledger Live from the official site to avoid counterfeit apps.

  3. Initialize your Ledger device

    Power on the device and choose Set up as a new device (or restore if you already have a recovery phrase). Create a PIN using the device buttons — memorize it; do not store the PIN digitally.

  4. Write down your recovery phrase

    The device will display a 24-word recovery phrase (sometimes 12 for older models). Write each word clearly on the provided recovery sheet. This phrase is the only way to recover your wallet — never share it or enter it into websites or apps.

  5. Complete device verification

    Ledger Live will verify the device's firmware and authenticity during setup. Follow on-screen prompts to confirm the device is genuine and not tampered with.

  6. Add crypto accounts

    In Ledger Live, open Accounts > Add account, choose the blockchain (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.), install the corresponding app on your device, and allow Ledger Live to synchronize your account(s).

  7. Keep firmware and apps updated

    Regularly update your device firmware and Ledger Live to receive security fixes and new features. Ledger Live will notify you when updates are available.

Security best practices — read this first

Never enter your recovery phrase anywhere except in your Ledger device during recovery. No legitimate support or app will ever ask for your full seed phrase. Beware of fake Ledger Live installers and phishing sites.

  • Only download Ledger Live from ledger.com or the official app stores.
  • Confirm website URLs and check for HTTPS. Use bookmarks for ledger.com/start rather than clicking unknown links.
  • Store your recovery phrase offline in a secure location (example: fireproof safe). Consider using a metal backup solution for long-term durability.
  • Enable a strong OS account password, and keep your computer free of untrusted software. Scammers sometimes craft fake Ledger apps to request your seed phrase — be vigilant.

Troubleshooting & tips

  • Device not recognized: Try a different USB cable/port and ensure the cable supports data (some only charge).
  • Ledger Live installer blocked: On macOS/Windows you may need to allow the app in Security & Privacy settings.
  • Lost PIN: If you forget your PIN, you will need to reset the device and recover with your recovery phrase.
  • Suspect fake software: Immediately delete suspicious files, run antivirus checks, and only reinstall Ledger Live from the official page.

Conclusion

Ledger.com/start is the official, guided entry point for safely setting up your Ledger hardware wallet. Follow the steps above, protect your recovery phrase and PIN, and stay current with firmware and app updates to keep your crypto secure.

Ready to begin? Click the official link below and follow the interactive setup on Ledger.com/start.

Go to ledger.com/start