Welcome to the official getting started guide for Ledger hardware wallets. Whether you are setting up your Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Nano X for the first time, the best and safest way to begin is through the official setup process at Ledger.com/Start®. This ensures your device is genuine, your firmware is up to date, and your wallet is fully secure from the very first step.
Ledger is a leading manufacturer of hardware wallets designed to provide top-level security for cryptocurrencies and digital assets. Unlike software wallets, which are vulnerable to online attacks, Ledger devices store your private keys offline, offering maximum protection against theft, malware, and phishing attempts.
The Ledger ecosystem includes the Ledger hardware wallet, Ledger Live desktop/mobile app, and various security-enhancing accessories. All wallet operations, such as sending, receiving, and managing crypto, are handled through Ledger Live while your keys remain safely offline inside your device.
Using Ledger.com/Start® ensures you're following the verified, official steps from the manufacturer. This page walks you through setup, firmware installation, PIN creation, recovery phrase generation, and secure app download. Avoid using third-party websites or unofficial videos for instructions, as these could mislead you into compromising your wallet security.
Your Ledger device should come in a sealed box containing:
Before connecting your device, inspect it to ensure the packaging is intact. Ledger devices do not come pre-configured — if you see a pre-written recovery phrase or anything suspicious, do not use the device.
On your computer or mobile browser, manually type in the official website address. This helps you avoid fraudulent or lookalike domains.
Ledger Live is the official companion app that lets you manage your crypto portfolio. Download and install it for your operating system. Once installed, open the app and follow the instructions to initialize your device.
Use the USB cable to connect your Ledger device. On-screen prompts will guide you through the process of setting up a new wallet or restoring an existing one.
Your device will ask you to choose a PIN code, which protects your wallet from unauthorized access. Choose a PIN that’s hard to guess and never share it with anyone.
Ledger will generate a unique 24-word recovery phrase. This is your only backup — write it down on the provided recovery sheet and store it offline in a safe, fireproof, and waterproof location. Never store your phrase online or take pictures of it.
To ensure you’ve correctly recorded your phrase, the device will ask you to verify a few words from the list. This is a critical step in securing your wallet.
Through Ledger Live, install blockchain apps like Bitcoin, Ethereum, or others depending on what assets you plan to manage. You can then create accounts within the app to view balances, send, and receive crypto.
If your device is lost or damaged, you can recover your funds using your 24-word recovery phrase on a new Ledger or compatible wallet.
Ledger devices are designed to be extremely secure. As long as your recovery phrase remains private and offline, your assets are safe even if your computer is compromised.
Yes. Ledger Live is developed by Ledger and undergoes regular security audits. Combined with your hardware device, it offers a powerful and secure interface for crypto management.
Getting started with your Ledger device via Ledger.com/Start® is the smartest way to take full control of your cryptocurrency. By following the official process, setting up your recovery phrase securely, and using Ledger Live to manage your portfolio, you build a strong foundation for long-term crypto safety. In a world where digital threats are constant, Ledger gives you peace of mind.