If you’ve purchased a Ledger hardware wallet, you’ve made an excellent decision to protect your crypto assets with one of the most trusted cold storage solutions available. The next step is crucial: setting up your wallet securely through the official portal — Ledger.com/Start.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the entire Ledger wallet installation process, including how to install Ledger Live, initialize your device, secure your recovery phrase, and start managing your crypto with confidence. Whether you’re using the Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X, this guide applies to both.
Ledger.com/Start is the official starting point provided by Ledger to set up your device safely and properly. It ensures you're downloading the authentic Ledger Live app and following the correct initialization steps — essential for avoiding scams, counterfeit software, or setup mistakes that could compromise your funds.
A Ledger Nano S Plus or Nano X device
A USB cable to connect it (Bluetooth available for Nano X mobile use)
A desktop or mobile device
A pen and paper to write down your recovery phrase
An internet connection
Before setup, carefully unbox your Ledger wallet and inspect the following:
Device is sealed and undamaged
Packaging contains Ledger wallet, USB cable, recovery sheet, and instructions
There is no pre-written recovery phrase in the box — this is a red flag if found
Ledger wallets are never pre-initialized. If your device shows any signs of tampering or includes a recovery phrase, do not use it.
Open a secure browser on your desktop or mobile device and go to Ledger.com/Start. This page will automatically detect your device model and guide you to the appropriate installation steps.
Click "Get Started" to begin the official setup process.
Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile application for managing your crypto through your Ledger device.
Select your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux)
Download the Ledger Live installer
Open the file and follow the installation instructions
Go to the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android)
Search for “Ledger Live” and download the official app
Once installed, launch the app and click “Get Started”.
When prompted, choose “Set up a new device.” Follow the on-screen instructions and do the following:
Select a 4–8 digit PIN using the device buttons
Confirm the PIN by entering it twice
This PIN is required to unlock your device each time you use it
Ledger will generate a unique 24-word recovery phrase
Write each word in the exact order on the provided recovery sheet
Do not take a photo, screenshot, or store it digitally
Confirm a few words on the device as a security check
🔐 Important: This phrase is your backup. If your Ledger is lost, stolen, or damaged, your recovery phrase is the only way to regain access to your funds.
Ledger Live will now check your device’s authenticity. This ensures you're using a genuine Ledger product. You’ll see a confirmation message on both the app and the device screen.
If your device fails the authenticity check, stop using it and contact Ledger support immediately.
Ledger Live uses apps to manage different coins (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin).
To install:
Navigate to “My Ledger” in the Ledger Live menu
Allow access on your device
Search for the cryptocurrency you want to manage (e.g., Bitcoin)
Click “Install” — the app will be added to your Ledger device
You can now manage that coin from Ledger Live.
To track balances and perform transactions, add an account for each coin:
Go to “Accounts”
Click “Add account”
Choose the cryptocurrency
Follow the prompts to sync the account with your device
Your crypto balances and transaction history will now be visible in the Ledger Live dashboard.
To receive crypto:
Go to “Accounts”, select the desired coin
Click “Receive”
Verify the address shown on your device
Copy the address and send funds from an exchange or another wallet
Always verify the address on your Ledger device screen — this ensures it hasn’t been altered by malware.
🔐 Enable passphrase protection for extra security (optional but recommended for advanced users)
💾 Backup your recovery phrase in a fireproof safe or secure location
📵 Never share your 24 words with anyone — Ledger will never ask for them
📲 Enable Ledger Live password lock under settings
🔁 Regularly update your device firmware and Ledger Live app to stay protected
Yes, Ledger Live is completely free. Always download it from the official Ledger website or app stores.
No. Ledger Live is the official interface for setting up and managing your Ledger device. However, you can use your Ledger with third-party wallets like MetaMask for Ethereum-based dApps.
As long as you have your 24-word recovery phrase, you can restore your wallet on a new Ledger device or compatible wallet.
Yes. The Ledger Nano X supports Bluetooth and works with the mobile version of Ledger Live. The Nano S Plus requires a USB connection and is best used with desktops.
Ledger recommends keeping your firmware and Ledger Live app updated regularly to access new features and security enhancements.
Setting up your Ledger device through Ledger.com/Start is a crucial step to ensure your cryptocurrency is stored safely and correctly. From initializing your device to securing your recovery phrase and using Ledger Live, each step plays a role in protecting your digital assets.
With its top-tier security features, user-friendly interface, and ongoing updates, Ledger remains a leading choice for long-term crypto storage. Whether you're holding Bitcoin, Ethereum, or a diversified portfolio, your assets are in good hands when protected by Ledger.
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