Welcome to Ledger.com/Start® — the official setup portal for all Ledger® hardware wallets, including Ledger Nano X, Ledger Nano S Plus, and Ledger Stax. If you have just purchased your Ledger device, you’re in the right place. Follow this guide to set up, activate, and secure your wallet safely.
1. What Is a Ledger Wallet?
A Ledger hardware wallet is a physical device that keeps your private keys offline and out of reach from hackers. Unlike software wallets, your Ledger device provides a secure environment where your cryptocurrency information never leaves the chip. It’s your ultimate protection against phishing, malware, and exchange breaches.
2. Before You Begin
Ensure that your device is brand new and purchased directly from the official Ledger website or an authorized reseller. Never use a wallet that comes pre-configured or has a pre-written recovery phrase. Your 24-word recovery phrase must be generated only on your device.
3. Step-by-Step Setup Instructions
Step 1: Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the provided USB cable. You may also connect via Bluetooth if you are using Ledger Nano X.
Step 2: Visit Ledger.com/Start to download Ledger Live, the official companion app used to manage your crypto assets.
Step 3: Open Ledger Live and select “Set up a new device.” Follow the on-screen instructions to create a new wallet or restore from a recovery phrase.
Step 4: Write down your 24-word recovery phrase on the Recovery Sheet provided in the box. Keep it offline, never share it, and never take digital photos of it.
Step 5: Choose a secure PIN code on your device. This ensures that only you can access the wallet even if someone steals the hardware.
Step 6: Once setup is complete, install the coin apps you wish to use (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Solana) through Ledger Live.
4. Why Ledger Is Trusted Worldwide
Ledger’s technology is built around a certified Secure Element (SE) chip — the same type of chip used in passports and credit cards. Every device is verified through an authenticity check inside Ledger Live to ensure that your wallet has not been tampered with. The firmware is constantly updated to meet the highest security standards in the crypto industry.
5. Managing Crypto with Ledger Live
Ledger Live is your all-in-one crypto management platform. It allows you to buy, sell, swap, and stake crypto directly from your desktop or mobile device, all while keeping your private keys secured within the hardware wallet. You can monitor your portfolio in real time, connect to DeFi apps, and manage NFTs — safely and transparently.
6. Stay Secure — Always Verify
Always double-check the official URL: https://www.ledger.com/start. Never enter your recovery phrase on any website or app. Ledger will never ask for your 24 words. If you receive suspicious messages or emails, report them immediately via Ledger Support.
7. Support and Resources
If you need help during setup, visit the Ledger Help Center. You’ll find step-by-step video tutorials, troubleshooting guides, and FAQs covering everything from firmware updates to staking features.
For the latest product announcements and security news, follow Ledger on social media and subscribe to the Ledger newsletter. Keeping informed helps you protect your digital assets and stay ahead of evolving threats.
8. Final Thoughts
Setting up your Ledger hardware wallet is the first step toward true financial self-sovereignty. With your device configured and recovery phrase securely stored, you now hold the keys to your crypto safely in your hands. Explore Ledger Live, manage your assets, and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your digital wealth is protected by world-class security.