Ledger.com/start — Quick and Simple Setup

Ledger.com/start is the official starting page to set up a Ledger hardware wallet. This short guide explains the main steps in plain language so you can get your device ready and protect your crypto. Follow each step slowly and never skip the security parts.

What you will need

Before you begin, make sure you have:

1. A new Ledger device (for example: Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X).
2. A computer or phone and a USB cable or Bluetooth (depending on your model).
3. A quiet, private place to write down your recovery phrase on paper.
4. Access to ledger.com/start.

Step 1 — Visit Ledger.com/start

Open a browser and go to ledger.com/start. This page will guide you to download Ledger Live and show the exact instructions for your device model. Always use the official site—do not follow links from messages or unknown sources.

Step 2 — Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the app you use to manage accounts, send and receive crypto, and install apps on your device. Download Ledger Live for your operating system from the start page and install it. Open Ledger Live when installation finishes.

Step 3 — Connect your Ledger device

Plug the device into your computer with the cable (or pair via Bluetooth for supported devices). The device screen will turn on and show a welcome message. Follow the on-screen prompts on the device itself — not only in the computer window.

Step 4 — Create a PIN

The device will ask you to set a PIN code. Choose a PIN you can remember but others cannot guess. You must enter the PIN on the device each time it powers on. Never enter your PIN on a website or app.

Step 5 — Write down your recovery phrase

Ledger will show a set of 24 words (the recovery phrase). Write those words down in order on the card provided or on paper. This phrase is the only backup of your wallet. If you lose the device, the phrase can restore your crypto on a new Ledger device.

Step 6 — Verify and add accounts

After you confirm the phrase on the device, open Ledger Live and follow the steps to add accounts like Bitcoin or Ethereum. Each account may require you to install a small app on the Ledger device — Ledger Live will handle this. To receive crypto, use the address shown in Ledger Live and confirm it on the device screen.

Step 7 — Send and receive safely

When sending funds, always check the address on the Ledger device screen before approving. The device verifies addresses independently from your computer to protect you from malware. Start with a small test amount if you are using a new address for the first time.

Troubleshooting tips

1. If Ledger Live won’t detect your device, try a different USB port or cable and make sure the device screen is unlocked with the PIN.
2. If firmware updates fail, follow Ledger Live instructions and do not disconnect the device during the update.
3. For lost recovery phrases: if you lose it, move funds to a new wallet as quickly as possible if you still have access. If you lose both the device and the phrase, funds are not recoverable.

Where to get help

Use the official Ledger support pages and knowledge base found through support.ledger.com. Avoid community links that ask for secret information. Official help will never ask for your recovery phrase.