Ledger Start® | Get Started with Your Ledger Hardware Wallet

Welcome to the most secure way to manage your cryptocurrency. Follow our comprehensive guide to set up your Ledger hardware wallet and take full control of your digital assets.

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What is a Ledger Hardware Wallet?

A Ledger hardware wallet is a physical device designed to keep your cryptocurrency private keys completely offline and secure. Unlike software wallets that store keys on internet-connected devices, Ledger wallets provide military-grade security by isolating your keys in a secure chip, similar to those used in credit cards and passports.

Maximum Security

Your private keys never leave the device, protecting you from hackers and malware.

Multi-Currency Support

Store Bitcoin, Ethereum, and over 5,500 different cryptocurrencies and tokens.

Full Control

You own your keys and control your crypto—no third parties involved.

Why Ledger is Essential for Crypto Security

Protecting your digital assets is not optional—it's essential. Here's why millions trust Ledger.

❌ Risks of Software Wallets

• Vulnerable to malware and phishing attacks
• Exchange hacks can result in total loss
• Keys stored online are constant targets
• No physical confirmation of transactions

✅ Benefits of Ledger Hardware

• Completely offline storage (cold wallet)
• Physical button confirmation for all transactions
• Certified secure chip protection
• Recovery phrase backup ensures access

Complete Setup Guide: Step-by-Step

Follow these simple steps to get your Ledger wallet up and running securely.

Unbox and Initialize Your Ledger Device

Let's get your hardware wallet ready for use.

What's in the Box?

• Your Ledger device (Nano S, Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax)
• USB cable for connection
• Recovery phrase cards (blank)
• Getting started guide
• Keychain (for Nano models)

Initial Setup Steps:

1. Connect your Ledger to your computer using the USB cable
2. Press both buttons (or tap the screen for Stax) to begin setup
3. Select "Set up as new device" when prompted
4. Follow the on-screen instructions

💡 Pro Tip: Ensure you're in a private space with no cameras or onlookers during setup to protect your recovery phrase.

Set a Secure PIN Code

Your PIN is your first line of defense against unauthorized access.

Creating Your PIN:

1. Your device will prompt you to choose a PIN (4-8 digits)
2. Use the device buttons to navigate and select digits
3. Press both buttons to validate each digit
4. Confirm your PIN by entering it again

PIN Security Best Practices:

✓ Choose 8 digits for maximum security
✓ Avoid obvious patterns (1234, 0000, birth years)
✓ Don't use PINs from other accounts
✓ Never share your PIN with anyone
✓ Memorize it—don't write it near your device

⚠️ Important: After 3 incorrect PIN attempts, your device will reset for security. You'll need your recovery phrase to restore access.

Download and Install Ledger Live

The official companion app for managing your Ledger device.

Installation Steps:

1. Visit the official website: ledger.com/ledger-live
2. Download Ledger Live for your operating system (Windows, Mac, or Linux)
3. Install the application and launch it
4. Select "Get Started"
5. Choose your Ledger device model
6. Select "Connect existing device" if you've already set up your hardware wallet

Desktop App

Full-featured application for Windows, macOS, and Linux with complete portfolio management.

Mobile App

Manage your crypto on-the-go (requires Ledger Nano X with Bluetooth).

💡 Security Note: Only download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website. Fake apps exist that can steal your funds.

Write Down Your Recovery Phrase (MOST CRITICAL STEP)

This 24-word phrase is your ultimate backup—treat it like gold.

🚨 CRITICAL SECURITY WARNING 🚨

Your 24-word recovery phrase is the ONLY way to recover your funds if:

• Your device is lost, stolen, or damaged
• You forget your PIN and the device resets
• You upgrade to a new Ledger device

Anyone with your recovery phrase has COMPLETE access to all your crypto. NEVER share it, NEVER type it online, NEVER take a photo of it.

Recording Your Recovery Phrase:

1. Your Ledger will display 24 words, one at a time
2. Write each word in order on the provided Recovery Sheet (or blank paper)
3. Use pen (not pencil) and write clearly
4. Double-check each word for accuracy
5. Your device will quiz you on 2-3 words to confirm you wrote them correctly

Best Practices for Storage:

✓ Store in a fireproof and waterproof safe
✓ Consider making a second copy kept in a separate secure location
✓ Use metal backup plates for permanent storage (available from Ledger)
✓ Never store digitally (no photos, no cloud, no digital documents)
✓ Tell a trusted person where it is in case of emergency, but don't show them the phrase
✓ Consider splitting it between two locations (words 1-12 and 13-24)

⚠️ Ledger Will NEVER Ask for Your Recovery Phrase: No customer support, no email, no phone call. Anyone asking for it is a scammer.

Add Crypto Accounts to Ledger Live

Set up accounts for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage.

Adding Your First Account:

1. In Ledger Live, click "Add account" or the "+" button
2. Select the cryptocurrency (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum)
3. Connect and unlock your Ledger device
4. Install the required app on your device when prompted
5. Open the crypto app on your Ledger device
6. Ledger Live will scan for existing accounts or create a new one
7. Click "Add account" to finalize

Popular Cryptocurrencies to Add:

Bitcoin (BTC)

The original cryptocurrency

Ethereum (ETH)

Smart contract platform

Polygon (MATIC)

Ethereum scaling solution

+ 5,500 more tokens

Full list in Ledger Live

💡 Tip: You can add multiple accounts for the same cryptocurrency (e.g., separate Bitcoin accounts for different purposes).

Receive Cryptocurrency

Learn how to safely receive crypto to your Ledger wallet.

How to Receive Crypto:

1. In Ledger Live, select the account you want to receive funds into
2. Click "Receive"
3. Connect and unlock your Ledger device
4. Open the corresponding crypto app on your device
5. Ledger Live will display your receiving address
6. IMPORTANT: Verify the address on your Ledger screen matches the one in Ledger Live
7. If they match, confirm on your device
8. Copy the address or use the QR code to receive funds

✅ Security Tip: Always verify addresses on your Ledger device screen. This protects against malware that might change addresses on your computer.

First Transaction Best Practice:

For your first transaction, especially with large amounts:

1. Send a small test amount first (e.g., $10-20)
2. Confirm it arrives successfully in your Ledger Live
3. Then send the larger amount

Send Cryptocurrency

Safely transfer crypto from your Ledger to another wallet or exchange.

How to Send Crypto:

1. In Ledger Live, select the account you want to send from
2. Click "Send"
3. Enter the recipient's address (or scan their QR code)
4. Enter the amount to send
5. Select your network fee (higher = faster confirmation)
6. Click "Continue"
7. Connect and unlock your Ledger device
8. Review ALL transaction details on your Ledger screen
9. If everything is correct, confirm by pressing both buttons
10. Transaction complete—track it in Ledger Live

⚠️ CRITICAL WARNINGS:

• Crypto transactions are IRREVERSIBLE—there's no undo button
• Always double-check the recipient address
• Sending to the wrong address = permanent loss of funds
• Test with a small amount first if unsure
• Make sure you're sending to the correct network (e.g., ERC-20 vs BEP-20)

Enable Key Security Features

Maximize your protection with these essential security settings.

Passphrase (25th Word)

Add an optional 25th word to your recovery phrase for an extra layer of security. This creates a hidden wallet.

✓ Protects against physical theft

✓ Creates plausible deniability

⚠️ If forgotten, funds are unrecoverable

Auto-Lock Timer

Set your device to automatically lock after a period of inactivity.

How to enable:

Settings → Security → Auto-lock → Choose time (1-10 minutes)

Blind Signing

Enable contract data display for DeFi and smart contract interactions.

How to enable:

Open Ethereum app → Settings → Blind signing → Enable

⚠️ Only enable when needed for trusted dApps

Genuine Check

Verify your device is authentic and hasn't been tampered with.

How to check:

Ledger Live → Manager → Genuine check runs automatically when connected

Keeping Your Device Updated

Regular firmware updates ensure maximum security and access to new features.

How to Update Firmware:

1. Ledger Live will notify you when an update is available
2. Go to Manager in Ledger Live
3. Connect and unlock your device
4. Click "Update firmware"
5. Follow the on-screen instructions
6. Your device will restart with the new firmware
7. Enter your PIN to complete the update

✅ Update Benefits:

• Latest security patches
• New cryptocurrency support
• Performance improvements
• Bug fixes

🔒 Your Funds Are Safe:

• Updates don't affect your crypto
• Recovery phrase remains the same
• All accounts intact after update
• No need to move funds

Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues

Quick solutions to problems you might encounter.

❌ Device Not Recognized by Ledger Live

Solutions:

• Try a different USB cable or port
• Update Ledger Live to the latest version
• Restart your computer
• Unlock your device and enter your PIN
• Check USB connection settings (ensure not in charge-only mode)

❌ Forgot PIN Code

Solution:

After 3 incorrect attempts, your device will reset. You'll need to restore it using your 24-word recovery phrase.

This is why your recovery phrase is so important!

❌ App Installation Fails

Solutions:

• Ensure device is unlocked and on the home screen
• Update device firmware if available
• Uninstall unused apps to free up storage space
• Retry the installation

❌ Transaction Pending Forever

Explanation:

If network fees were set too low, your transaction may take hours or days to confirm.

What to do:

• Wait for the transaction to process (most will eventually)
• Some networks allow "speeding up" transactions with higher fees
• In the future, use higher fee settings for faster confirmation

❌ Balance Not Showing / Synchronization Error

Solutions:

• Click the refresh/sync button in Ledger Live
• Clear cache: Settings → Help → Clear cache
• Ensure you have a stable internet connection
• Check the blockchain explorer directly (your funds are on the blockchain, not in Ledger Live)

Essential Security Best Practices

DO:

✓ Keep your recovery phrase offline and secure
✓ Always verify addresses on your device screen
✓ Update firmware regularly
✓ Use official Ledger products and software
✓ Test with small amounts first
✓ Enable all security features
✓ Keep your PIN private

DON'T:

✗ Share your recovery phrase with anyone
✗ Store recovery phrase digitally
✗ Enter recovery phrase on any website
✗ Ignore firmware updates
✗ Rush transactions without double-checking
✗ Use third-party software to manage your Ledger
✗ Buy used Ledger devices

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my Ledger device breaks or is lost?

Your crypto is safe! Your funds are stored on the blockchain, not on the device. Simply purchase a new Ledger, restore it using your 24-word recovery phrase, and you'll regain full access to your accounts.

Can I use one Ledger for multiple cryptocurrencies?

Yes! A single Ledger device can manage over 5,500 different cryptocurrencies and tokens. You can install and uninstall crypto apps as needed.

Do I need to keep Ledger Live open for my funds to be safe?

No. Your funds are on the blockchain, not in Ledger Live. Ledger Live is just an interface to view and manage your accounts. You can close it anytime.

Can someone hack my Ledger if they physically have it?

Without your PIN, no. After 3 incorrect PIN attempts, the device resets. Even with physical access, the secure chip makes extracting keys virtually impossible. However, if someone has BOTH your device AND your recovery phrase, they can access your funds.

What's the difference between Ledger Nano S, S Plus, and Nano X?

• Nano S: Entry-level, USB-only, fewer apps simultaneously
• Nano S Plus: Larger screen, more storage, USB-only
• Nano X: Bluetooth enabled, most storage, mobile compatible, battery-powered

Is Ledger really safer than keeping crypto on an exchange?

Yes, significantly. When you store crypto on an exchange, you don't control the private keys—the exchange does. Exchanges are frequently hacked, frozen, or shut down. With a Ledger, you have complete control and ownership of your crypto with no third-party risk.

Ready to Secure Your Crypto?

You now have everything you need to set up and use your Ledger hardware wallet safely. Take control of your digital assets today.

Start Your Setup Now

This is an independent guide. Always verify information on the official Ledger website: ledger.com

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always do your own research and follow official Ledger documentation.