Cryptocurrency offers financial freedom, but it also comes with a responsibility: keeping your digital assets secure. With online exchanges and software wallets being prime targets for hackers, the best way to safeguard your crypto is through a hardware wallet. Ledger is a trusted global leader in crypto security, and Ledger.com/start is the official setup portal to get your device running safely and efficiently.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about setting up your Ledger device, installing Ledger Live, and securing your recovery phrase, step-by-step.
Ledger is a French technology company that specializes in hardware wallets for cryptocurrencies. A Ledger wallet stores your private keys offline, keeping them safe from malware, phishing attacks, and online theft. Unlike software wallets, a Ledger device ensures your keys never leave the hardware — meaning your assets remain under your full control.
Popular Ledger models include:
Ledger Nano X – Bluetooth-enabled, ideal for mobile use.
Ledger Nano S Plus – Affordable and secure, perfect for desktop users.
Ledger Stax – Premium model with a curved touchscreen display.
No matter which model you own, setup begins at the same official website: ledger.com/start.
Before setting up, always ensure you’re on the official Ledger site. Scammers often create fake websites imitating Ledger to steal recovery phrases. Type ledger.com/start directly into your browser, or access it through the official Ledger domain only.
Once there, choose your device model (Nano X, Nano S Plus, or Stax) to access the correct setup instructions and software download.
At ledger.com/start, you’ll be prompted to download Ledger Live, the official desktop and mobile application for managing your crypto. Ledger Live allows you to:
Set up your new device
Install crypto apps (like Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.)
Send, receive, and stake crypto
View your portfolio in real-time
Manage firmware updates securely
Ledger Live is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Only download it from ledger.com/start to avoid counterfeit versions.
Once Ledger Live is installed, connect your device to your computer or smartphone using the provided USB cable (or Bluetooth for Nano X). Follow the on-screen instructions to:
Initialize your device – Choose “Set up as new device.”
Create a PIN code – This protects your wallet from unauthorized access.
Write down your recovery phrase – You’ll receive a 24-word recovery phrase. Write it down on the provided recovery sheet and store it in a safe, offline location.
⚠️ Important: Never take a photo of your recovery phrase or store it digitally. Ledger will never ask for it online or via email.
Your recovery phrase is the only way to restore your wallet if your Ledger device is lost, stolen, or damaged. Anyone who has access to it can control your assets.
After your device is initialized, open Ledger Live and navigate to the “My Ledger” tab. You’ll be asked to connect your device and allow Ledger Manager access.
From here, you can install apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to store, such as:
Bitcoin (BTC)
Ethereum (ETH)
XRP (Ripple)
Litecoin (LTC)
Polygon (MATIC)
And hundreds more
Each cryptocurrency requires a dedicated app to manage its addresses securely.
Once apps are installed, you can add corresponding accounts to Ledger Live. These accounts display your crypto balances and transaction history. To add an account:
Open Ledger Live → Click “Accounts” → Select “Add Account.”
Choose the crypto asset.
Follow the on-screen instructions and verify details on your Ledger device.
Your private keys remain stored securely on your Ledger device — even while viewing your portfolio online.
Ledger Live makes sending and receiving cryptocurrencies simple:
To receive crypto:
Click “Receive,” select your asset, and verify the wallet address on your Ledger device screen before sharing it.
To send crypto:
Click “Send,” enter the recipient’s address, and confirm the transaction directly on your device.
Always double-check the address displayed on your Ledger screen — not just your computer — to prevent malware from changing it.
Ledger regularly releases firmware updates to enhance security and add new features. Use Ledger Live to install these updates safely. Before updating:
Ensure your 24-word recovery phrase is securely backed up.
Only use official Ledger Live prompts — never third-party sites.
Staying updated ensures your device remains protected from the latest threats.
Buy only from official sources:
Purchase from Ledger.com or authorized resellers.
Never share your recovery phrase:
Ledger will never ask for it — not via email, phone, or website.
Beware of phishing attempts:
Fake websites, YouTube videos, and messages may try to trick you.
Use a strong PIN:
Avoid simple combinations like 1234 or 0000.
Backup safely:
Store your recovery phrase in a fireproof, waterproof location. Consider a metal backup plate for added protection.
Visiting ledger.com/start ensures you’re downloading the authentic Ledger Live software and following verified setup instructions. Fake websites often mimic Ledger to collect recovery phrases — leading to instant asset loss.
Always check the URL for https://www.ledger.com/start and the secure padlock symbol before entering any information.
Setting up your Ledger device through Ledger.com/Start is the safest and most reliable way to protect your crypto investments. By combining offline key storage with Ledger Live’s intuitive interface, you gain total control over your digital assets without sacrificing convenience.
Remember: your crypto is only as secure as your recovery phrase. Keep it private, keep it offline, and use only official Ledger resources.
Start your crypto security journey today — visit Ledger.com/Start and take full control of your digital wealth.