Ledger Wallet Setup Guide – Securely Start at Ledger.com/Start

Your cryptocurrency is only as safe as your wallet. A Ledger hardware wallet stores your private keys offline, protecting your funds from hacks, phishing, and malware. The safest way to set up your Ledger device is through Ledger.com/start, the official portal. This guide takes you step by step—from unboxing to securely managing your crypto.

Why Start at Ledger.com/Start

Using unofficial sources can put your cryptocurrency at risk. Starting at Ledger.com/start ensures:

  • Downloading the official Ledger Live software

  • Installing verified firmware

  • Safe creation or recovery of wallets

  • Guidance on secure storage of your recovery phrase

Always type the URL manually. Avoid links from emails or social media.

What You Need

Before beginning, gather:

  • Ledger device (Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Nano X)

  • Computer or smartphone

  • Official USB/USB-C cable

  • Internet connection

  • Pen and paper for your recovery phrase

  • Quiet, private workspace

⚠ Never store your recovery phrase digitally or online.

Step 1: Unbox Your Ledger

  1. Check that the security seal is intact.

  2. Connect the device to your computer or smartphone using the official cable.

  3. New devices come without firmware installed, which is normal.

Avoid using second-hand or tampered devices.

Step 2: Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official application to manage your crypto. It allows you to:

  • View balances and transaction history

  • Send and receive cryptocurrency securely

  • Install apps for multiple coins

  • Update firmware

How to Install

  1. Visit Ledger.com/start

  2. Choose your Ledger model

  3. Download Ledger Live for your operating system

  4. Install and launch the app

Only download Ledger Live from the official website.

Step 3: Set Up Your Device

Ledger offers two setup options:

  1. New device – create a brand-new wallet

  2. Restore device – recover an existing wallet

Setting Up a New Wallet

  1. Select “Set up as new device”

  2. Choose a PIN code (4–8 digits)

  3. Confirm the PIN on your device

Keep the PIN separate from your recovery phrase.

Step 4: Secure Your Recovery Phrase

Your Ledger will generate a 24-word recovery phrase (older devices may use 12 words).

  • Write it on the sheet provided

  • Store it offline and securely

  • Never photograph, email, or store it digitally

  • Never share it

Losing your recovery phrase means losing access to your funds permanently.

Step 5: Confirm Your Recovery Phrase

The device will prompt you to verify specific words.

  • Make sure your written copy is accurate

  • If verification fails, generate a new phrase

This ensures you can restore your wallet if needed.

Step 6: Install Cryptocurrency Apps

Ledger devices manage different coins through apps.

  1. Open Ledger Live → Manager

  2. Browse and install apps for the coins you want to use (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.)

Each app enables secure management of that specific cryptocurrency.

Step 7: Add Accounts

  1. Open Ledger Live → Accounts

  2. Add accounts for each cryptocurrency

  3. Ledger Live will synchronize with the blockchain

You can create multiple accounts for the same coin if desired.

Step 8: Sending and Receiving Crypto

Receiving Crypto

  1. Open Ledger Live → select the account → Receive

  2. Verify the address on your Ledger device

  3. Share the verified address

Sending Crypto

  1. Open the account → Send

  2. Enter the recipient address and amount

  3. Confirm transaction details on your device


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