Welcome to Ledger.com/start, your comprehensive resource for setting up and securing your Ledger hardware wallet. Whether you've just purchased a Ledger Nano S, Ledger Nano X, or Ledger Nano S Plus, this guide will walk you through every step of the setup process to ensure your cryptocurrency assets remain safe and accessible.
Why Choose Ledger? Ledger hardware wallets are the gold standard in cryptocurrency security, providing offline storage for your private keys. With over 5 million devices sold worldwide, Ledger has established itself as the most trusted name in crypto security. Your private keys never leave the device, ensuring maximum protection against online threats, phishing attacks, and malware.
Getting started with your Ledger device is straightforward. First, visit the official Ledger.com/start page and download Ledger Live, the companion application that allows you to manage your crypto assets. Ledger Live is available for Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android, making it accessible across all your devices. Always ensure you're downloading from the official source to avoid counterfeit software.
Upon unboxing your Ledger wallet, verify that the package is sealed and hasn't been tampered with. The box should contain your Ledger device, a USB cable, a recovery sheet, and getting started instructions. Never use a device that appears to have been opened or modified. This is a crucial security step that protects you from supply chain attacks.
Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the provided USB cable. For Ledger Nano X users, you can also connect via Bluetooth to your mobile device. Press both buttons simultaneously to begin the setup process. You'll be greeted with the welcome screen on your device's display. Navigate through the menu using the buttons - the left button goes back, the right button advances, and pressing both buttons confirms your selection.
Choose to set up as a new device. Your Ledger will generate a unique 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is the master key to your crypto assets and must be written down carefully on the provided recovery sheets. Never take a digital photo of your recovery phrase, never store it on your computer or in the cloud, and never share it with anyone. Anyone with access to your recovery phrase has complete control over your assets.
Recovery Phrase Security: Write down all 24 words in the exact order shown on your device. Store your recovery sheets in a secure location, preferably in a fireproof safe or split between multiple secure locations. Consider using a Cryptosteel or similar metal backup solution for added protection against fire and water damage. Your recovery phrase is your ultimate backup - if you lose your device, the recovery phrase allows you to restore all your accounts.
After securing your recovery phrase, your device will ask you to confirm several words from the phrase to verify you've written them down correctly. This verification step is crucial - take your time and double-check each word. Once verified, create a PIN code between 4 and 8 digits. This PIN protects your device from unauthorized physical access. Choose a PIN that's memorable to you but difficult for others to guess. Avoid simple patterns like 1234 or repeated digits.
With your device now initialized, open Ledger Live on your computer or mobile device. Follow the onboarding process in the application, which will guide you through connecting your Ledger device. Ledger Live will check for firmware updates - always keep your device updated to benefit from the latest security enhancements and feature additions. The update process is secure and guided, with all verification happening on the device itself.
Install the cryptocurrency apps you need directly through Ledger Live. Whether you're holding Bitcoin, Ethereum, or any of the thousands of supported tokens, each cryptocurrency requires its specific app to be installed on your device. The device has limited storage, but you can install and uninstall apps as needed without affecting your holdings - your assets are tied to your recovery phrase, not the apps themselves.
To receive cryptocurrency, open the corresponding app on your Ledger device, navigate to the account in Ledger Live, and click "Receive." Always verify the receiving address shown in Ledger Live matches the address displayed on your Ledger device screen before sharing it with anyone. This verification step protects you from man-in-the-middle attacks where malware might try to substitute a different address.
When sending cryptocurrency, the process is equally secure. Initiate the transaction in Ledger Live, specify the recipient address and amount, then confirm every detail on your Ledger device screen. The device will display the recipient address, amount, and network fees. Verify each detail carefully before pressing both buttons to confirm. This physical confirmation requirement is what makes hardware wallets so secure - malware on your computer cannot authorize transactions without your physical approval.
Security Best Practices: Never enter your recovery phrase into any website or application. Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase. Be wary of phishing emails and fake support contacts. Always access Ledger services through official channels. Enable additional security features in Ledger Live, such as password protection for the application. Regularly check for firmware updates and keep your apps current.
By following these comprehensive steps, you're establishing a fortress of security around your digital assets. Your Ledger hardware wallet represents the highest standard of cryptocurrency security available to individual users. Take time to familiarize yourself with all features, explore the Ledger Academy for additional education, and join the Ledger community for support and updates. Your journey into secure crypto management starts here at Ledger.com/start.