Welcome to Ledger.com/start
Congratulations on taking your first step toward crypto self-custody. With your Ledger hardware wallet, you control your digital assets securely and independently. This guide will walk you through setting up your Ledger Nano X, Nano S Plus, or other Ledger devices using Ledger Live — the trusted application for safely managing your coins and tokens.
1. What Is a Ledger Hardware Wallet?
A Ledger hardware wallet is a secure, offline device that stores your private keys away from hackers and malware. Unlike exchange wallets, Ledger ensures that only you have access to your crypto. Your keys never leave the device — making it one of the safest options for digital asset storage.
Ledger supports thousands of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), XRP, Litecoin (LTC), Solana (SOL), and ERC-20 tokens. With Ledger Live, you can buy, swap, stake, and manage all your assets in one place.
2. How to Begin Setup
Follow these official steps to set up your device properly:
- Go to the official link: Ledger.com/start
- Download and install Ledger Live on your computer or smartphone.
- Open Ledger Live and choose “Set up a new device.”
- Select your device model (Nano X or Nano S Plus).
- Follow on-screen instructions to initialize and create your new wallet.
Tip: Only download Ledger Live from the official website. Avoid links from social media or unofficial sites to prevent phishing attacks.
3. Secure Your Recovery Phrase
During setup, your Ledger device will generate a unique 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is the key to recovering your wallet if the device is lost or reset. Treat it with extreme care.
- Write the recovery phrase on the provided recovery sheet.
- Do not take photos or store it digitally.
- Keep it in a secure, offline location.
- Never share it with anyone — not even Ledger support.
If anyone asks for your recovery phrase, it’s a scam. Ledger will never request it.
4. Installing Apps and Managing Assets
Once your wallet is ready, open Ledger Live and install apps for the cryptocurrencies you plan to manage. For example, install the Bitcoin or Ethereum app before adding accounts. Each transaction must be physically confirmed on your Ledger device — protecting you from unauthorized transfers.
5. Keeping Your Device Updated
To maintain strong security and compatibility, regularly update both your Ledger Live app and device firmware. Updates can be safely performed through the official app — never via external links or emails.
6. Why Choose Ledger?
Ledger wallets are trusted by millions of users worldwide and certified by ANSSI, France’s cybersecurity agency. They combine cutting-edge security with a user-friendly interface, empowering you to manage your crypto confidently.
Whether you hold Bitcoin long-term or manage multiple digital assets, Ledger ensures that your private keys — and your freedom — remain yours.
7. Need Assistance?
Visit the Ledger Support Center for detailed tutorials, troubleshooting help, and video guides. Always confirm that you’re on Ledger’s official website before entering any information.