🔐 Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® – Secure Your Crypto Device
Welcome to the official Ledger wallet setup guide. Ledger hardware wallets are trusted by millions globally to protect digital assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and NFTs. But even the best wallet is only secure when it's set up correctly. This guide will walk you through every step to securely initialize and use your device. 🛡️
📦 Step 1: Unbox Your Ledger Device
When you receive your Ledger device (Nano X, Nano S Plus, or Nano S), it should arrive in a sealed box with the following inside:
- 🔸 Ledger hardware wallet
- 🔸 USB cable
- 🔸 Recovery sheet cards
- 🔸 Instruction card
- 🔸 Stickers (optional)
⚠️ Warning: If your device came with a recovery phrase already printed or written, do not use it. This is a scam. The recovery phrase should only appear on the screen of your new device.
🌐 Step 2: Go to Ledger.com/Start
Open your browser and navigate directly to:
https://www.ledger.com/start
- 🛑 Don't Google “Ledger Live.” Go directly to the official site.
- 🔒 Ensure the page has a padlock icon and is secure (HTTPS).
- 💻 Choose your device model and download Ledger Live.
💡 Pro Tip: Bookmark the official page once confirmed to avoid future phishing attempts.
📥 Step 3: Download & Install Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the official companion app for your Ledger hardware wallet. Download it from Ledger.com/Start for:
- 🔐 Secure device setup
- 📊 Portfolio and account management
- 🪙 Sending & receiving crypto securely
- 🧩 App installation (Ethereum, Bitcoin, Solana, etc.)
✅ Ledger Live is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. Never install it from third-party sites.
🔧 Step 4: Initialize Your Ledger Device
- Connect the device via USB (or Bluetooth for Nano X).
- Select “Set up as new device.”
- Create a strong 4-8 digit PIN on the device.
- Your Ledger will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. Write it down on the card provided.
- Confirm a few of the words when prompted to finish setup.
🛑 NEVER: Take photos or store your recovery phrase on a computer, phone, or cloud service.
🗝️ Step 5: Secure Your Recovery Phrase
This is the most important step. Your recovery phrase is the only way to recover your wallet if your device is lost, stolen, or reset.
- 📄 Write it clearly and legibly.
- 📦 Store it in a waterproof and fireproof container if possible.
- 🔐 Never share it with anyone — Ledger will never ask for it.
🔑 Consider a metal seed backup for long-term durability.
💼 Step 6: Add Crypto Accounts
Now you're ready to start managing crypto. Inside Ledger Live:
- Click on “Accounts.”
- Select the crypto you want (e.g., Bitcoin).
- Install the matching app on your Ledger device.
- Add the account to Ledger Live to view your balance.
✅ Every time you receive crypto, verify the wallet address on your Ledger device screen before sharing or using it.
📤 Sending Crypto Securely
- Copy the recipient address into Ledger Live.
- Confirm the exact address on your Ledger screen.
- Only approve the transaction if the full address matches.
- Use the Ledger’s display, not your PC screen, as malware can trick your clipboard.
⚠️ Clipboard Attack Alert: Malware may replace copied wallet addresses. Always double-check your Ledger screen.
🔄 Firmware & App Updates
- Regularly check for firmware updates in Ledger Live under “My Ledger.”
- Keep apps updated for security and compatibility.
- Device must be connected and unlocked for updates to proceed.
🧠 Security Tips
- 🔐 Your private keys never leave your Ledger device.
- 💣 Never input your 24 words into any website or software.
- 🧑💻 Use Ledger on a trusted, malware-free computer or phone.
- 🕵️♂️ Watch out for fake Ledger Live apps or browser extensions.
- 📧 Ledger will never email asking for your seed phrase or PIN.
🧠 Rule #1: If someone asks for your seed phrase, they’re trying to steal your crypto.