Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Securely Started with Ledger

In the ever-evolving world of cryptocurrency, security is the cornerstone of responsible digital asset management. If you're ready to step into the world of self-custody and secure your crypto holdings, the best place to begin is the official Ledger onboarding platform: Ledger.com/Start.

This guide is designed to help beginners and experienced users alike to get securely started with Ledger—covering everything from unboxing your device to safely transacting, staking, and exploring decentralized finance (DeFi) through Ledger Live.

Why Use Ledger for Your Crypto?

Ledger is one of the most trusted names in hardware wallets, with over 6 million devices sold worldwide. Here’s why users choose Ledger:

✅ Hardware-Level Security: Ledger wallets use a secure element chip (CC EAL5+) to store private keys offline.
✅ Self-Custody: Only you control your crypto—not an exchange or third party.
✅ Ledger Live Companion App: Manage, send, receive, stake, and swap crypto easily.
✅ Multi-Asset Support: Compatible with 5,500+ coins and tokens.
✅ DeFi & NFT Access: Securely connect to Web3 apps and marketplaces.

Step 1: Visit the Official Site — Ledger.com/Start

The first and most important step is visiting the official site: Ledger.com/Start. This page ensures you're on a legitimate, secure portal for:

Setting up your Ledger Nano S Plus or Nano X
Installing Ledger Live (desktop or mobile)
Verifying your device is genuine
Accessing official tutorials and videos

⚠️ Security Warning: Avoid unofficial websites or ads claiming to sell Ledger products. Always use the official site to download software or purchase hardware.

Step 2: What Comes in the Box?

When you receive your Ledger device, you’ll find:

Ledger Nano X or Nano S Plus hardware wallet
USB cable (USB-C or USB-A depending on model)
Recovery sheets (for your 24-word phrase)
Keychain or accessories (optional)
Getting started leaflet

Check that the packaging is sealed and untampered. If anything looks suspicious, contact Ledger support immediately.

Step 3: Setting Up Your Ledger Device

Follow these steps carefully:

A. Connect and Power On

Use the provided cable to connect the device to your computer or phone.
For Nano X, hold both buttons to turn it on.

B. Initialize as a New Device

Choose to set up as a new device.
Create a PIN code (4–8 digits). This prevents unauthorized access.

C. Write Down Your Recovery Phrase

You’ll be shown a 24-word recovery phrase.
Write it down on the provided sheet.
Confirm the phrase by selecting the correct words in order.

🛡️ Important: This is the only way to recover your wallet. Ledger does not store or back it up. Never enter your recovery phrase on any website, even if it looks official.

Step 4: Install Ledger Live

Go back to Ledger.com/Start and download Ledger Live for your operating system:

Windows
macOS
Linux
iOS / Android (mobile app)

Once installed:

Open the app and click “Get Started”
Select your device (Nano X or Nano S Plus)
Choose whether to set up new or restore a device
Run the genuine check to verify authenticity

Ledger Live will now guide you through connecting your device and updating firmware if needed.

Step 5: Install Apps on Your Device

To manage cryptocurrencies, you must install the appropriate coin app on your Ledger:

Open Ledger Live and go to “My Ledger”
Connect and unlock your device
Install the apps you need: e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana

Each app allows Ledger Live to manage wallets for that blockchain. You can remove and reinstall apps as needed—your funds remain safe.

Step 6: Add Crypto Accounts

Now that your device has the right apps, create accounts:

In Ledger Live, go to Accounts > Add Account
Select a crypto (e.g., Ethereum)
Open that app on your Ledger when prompted
Ledger Live will create an address and confirm it

You’re now ready to send, receive, and manage assets from your hardware wallet.

Step 7: Receiving Crypto Safely

To receive funds:

Click Receive
Select the account (e.g., Bitcoin)
Open the app on your device
Verify and approve the address displayed

🔍 Always confirm addresses on your Ledger screen. Avoid copy-pasting blindly.

Step 8: Sending Crypto Securely

To send funds:

Click Send
Enter the recipient’s address and amount
Open the app on your Ledger device
Confirm the transaction details and approve

⚠️ Tip: Always double-check the destination address. Clipboard malware can replace addresses without your knowledge.

Step 9: Explore Ledger Live Features

Ledger Live offers more than just basic crypto management:

✅ Buy Crypto

Purchase crypto via partners like MoonPay, Transak, and Ramp.
Payment methods: card, bank transfer (region-dependent).

✅ Swap Crypto

Exchange tokens using services like Changelly and 1inch.
Keeps your assets in your custody.

✅ Stake to Earn

Stake ETH, SOL, DOT, ATOM, and others.
Earn passive rewards without compromising security.

✅ NFT Support

Manage Ethereum and Polygon NFTs directly.
View metadata, send, or receive NFTs securely.

✅ Portfolio Tracking

See real-time valuations, price charts, and transaction history.
Track performance over days, weeks, and months.

Step 10: Use Ledger with DeFi & Web3 Apps

To interact with DeFi and Web3 dApps like Uniswap, Compound, and Aave:

Use the Ledger Extension (browser add-on)
Or connect via WalletConnect within the Ledger Live app

This way, you can sign transactions and approve smart contracts while keeping private keys offline on your Ledger.

Step 11: Stay Safe – Best Practices

Security is an ongoing habit. Follow these tips:

❌ Never enter your 24-word recovery phrase online
✅ Always use Ledger.com/Start for setup
🔒 Enable a strong PIN code and auto-lock
🔄 Regularly update your device firmware and apps
📁 Store recovery phrase in a fireproof and waterproof location
🧠 Consider using metal backup plates for extra durability

Troubleshooting & Help

Here are quick fixes for common problems:

ProblemSolutionDevice not recognizedTry a different cable or USB port. Restart Ledger Live.Stuck on loadingRestart both the device and the Ledger Live app.App won’t installFree up space by uninstalling unused apps.Recovery phrase lostUnfortunately, Ledger cannot recover it. Funds are unrecoverable.Need support?Visit support.ledger.com

Conclusion: Take Control of Your Crypto Journey

Getting securely started with Ledger begins with one simple step: visiting Ledger.com/Start. From there, you’re guided through a secure setup process that empowers you to control, manage, and grow your crypto portfolio—without relying on third parties.

With Ledger Live, your entire digital asset universe is at your fingertips: from buying and sending crypto to staking, NFTs, and DeFi. Ledger makes self-custody secure, user-friendly, and future-ready.