Ledger.com/start — Secure Hardware Wallet Setup

Overview

Hardware wallets keep your crypto private keys offline. Ledger devices (Nano S, Nano X, and variants) use a secure element and a recovery phrase to protect funds. This guide walks you from unboxing to safely storing your recovery phrase and verifying transactions with Ledger Live.

Who this is for

Ideal for new Ledger users, custodial-to-self-custodial migrants, and anyone wanting a reproducible checklist to securely configure a hardware wallet.

Goals

1. Install Ledger Live and firmware safely.
2. Initialize the device and generate a recovery phrase.
3. Securely store the recovery phrase using best practices.
4. Connect accounts and confirm transactions with the device.

Before you begin (h3)

What you need

Unbox your Ledger device, a trusted computer or phone, a USB cable (or Bluetooth for Nano X), and a secure place to store your recovery phrase. Always use the official Ledger.com/start page to begin.

Safety checklist

1. Do not use third-party setup guides that require entering your recovery phrase online.
2. Verify the device packaging looks untampered and the holographic seal (if present) is intact.
3. Download Ledger Live only from the official site.

Step-by-step setup (h2)

1. Visit Ledger.com/start (h3)

Open a browser and navigate to the official start page to download Ledger Live and follow the guided steps. This page centralizes downloads, compatibility notes, and safety warnings.

2. Install and open Ledger Live (h3)

Install Ledger Live on your desktop or mobile device. Ledger Live is the official app used to manage accounts, install apps on your device, and perform transactions. Never download Ledger Live from third-party marketplaces.

3. Initialize your Ledger device (h3)

1. Power the device and choose "Set up as new device" on the screen.
2. Choose a PIN code on the device — this protects it if physically stolen.
3. The device will generate a recovery phrase (24 words by default). Write these words down in order on the provided recovery sheet — do not store them digitally.
4. Confirm the recovery phrase when prompted to ensure accuracy.

Important: never share your recovery phrase (h4)

No one — not Ledger support, not an exchange — will ever ask for your 24-word phrase. If anyone asks for it, treat it as a scam and move your funds to a new wallet immediately.

Managing firmware and apps (h2)

After initialization, Ledger Live will check for firmware updates. Keep firmware up to date to ensure the device has the latest security patches. Install only the cryptocurrency apps you plan to use; each app is isolated in the device.

Connecting accounts (h3)

Use Ledger Live to add accounts for supported blockchains. When receiving or sending funds, verify the transaction details on the device screen before confirming.

Tip: double-check addresses (h5)

Always confirm the full receiving address on the Ledger device itself. Browser extensions or clipboard malware can alter copied addresses.

Backup, storage and recovery (h2)

Storing your recovery phrase (h3)

Store your recovery phrase in at least two physically separate, secure locations (e.g., safe deposit box, home safe). Use fireproof/waterproof metal backups for long-term durability if possible.

Avoid these storage methods (h4)

1. Taking photos of your recovery phrase or storing it in a cloud service.
2. Entering the phrase into a computer, phone, or email.
3. Giving the phrase to any third party.

What to do if the device is lost or damaged (h3)

Use your recovery phrase to restore accounts on a new Ledger device or another compatible wallet. Always restore from a clean, official app and verify addresses before moving funds.

Security best practices (h2)

Ongoing practices (h3)

1. Keep firmware and Ledger Live up to date.
2. Use a strong, unique PIN and never disclose it.
3. Enable passphrase protection only if you understand the risks and backup procedures.
4. Confirm transaction details on the device screen every time.

Handling scams and phishing (h4)

Phishing pages often mimic official interfaces. Bookmark the official Ledger website and always access Ledger Live via the installed app. If in doubt, contact official support channels listed below.

Official resources (10 links)

These official links point to Ledger's start page, product pages, and support documentation. Use them for downloads, support requests, and learning more about features like passphrase protection and advanced setups.

Quick checklist (h2)

1. Download Ledger Live from Ledger.com/start.
2. Initialize device and write the 24-word recovery phrase on the provided sheet.
3. Verify the recovery phrase and set a secure PIN.
4. Install only necessary apps and add accounts in Ledger Live.
5. Confirm transactions on the device screen every time.
6. Store recovery phrase in secure, offline locations.