Ledger.com/Start | Official Wallet Setup

Welcome to the official Ledger wallet setup guide. Follow our secure step-by-step instructions to initialize your hardware wallet and protect your cryptocurrency assets.

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Your Wallet Setup Progress

1. Unbox
2. Connect
3. Initialize
4. Backup
5. Complete

Complete Wallet Setup Guide

1

Unbox Your Ledger Device

Carefully unbox your Ledger hardware wallet package. Verify all components including the Ledger device, USB cable, recovery sheet, and keychain strap. Check for any signs of tampering before proceeding with your Ledger wallet setup.

Security Check: Ensure the holographic seal on the box is intact and verify the device authenticity through Ledger's official verification tools.

2

Download Ledger Live

Visit Ledger.com/Start and download the Ledger Live application for your operating system. Ledger Live is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. This application will guide you through the entire wallet setup process and manage your cryptocurrency portfolio.

Important: Only download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website to avoid malicious software.

3

Connect Your Ledger Device

Connect your Ledger hardware wallet to your computer using the provided USB cable. Ledger Live will automatically detect your device and guide you through the initialization process. Follow the on-screen instructions to begin setting up your new wallet.

Device Recognition: Ledger Live will verify your device authenticity and ensure it's genuine Ledger hardware.

4

Initialize Your Wallet

Follow the prompts on both Ledger Live and your device screen to initialize your wallet. You'll be guided through setting up a secure PIN code and generating your 24-word recovery phrase. This recovery phrase is your master backup - store it securely.

Critical Step: Your 24-word recovery phrase is the only way to recover your funds if your device is lost or damaged.

5

Install Crypto Applications

Use Ledger Live to install applications for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage. Each crypto asset requires its own application on your Ledger device. Install Bitcoin, Ethereum, or any of the 5,500+ supported assets through the Manager in Ledger Live.

Asset Support: Ledger supports Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Polkadot, and thousands of ERC-20 tokens and other digital assets.

6

Create Your First Account

Add cryptocurrency accounts in Ledger Live for each asset you want to manage. The application will synchronize with blockchain networks to display your balances and transaction history. Your Ledger device is now ready to securely send and receive cryptocurrencies.

Security Confirmation: All transactions require physical confirmation on your Ledger device for maximum security.

Advanced Security Features

Secure Element Chip

Ledger devices use certified secure element chips, the same technology used in passports and credit cards, to provide military-grade protection for your private keys.

PIN Protection

Your Ledger device is protected by a PIN code that you set during setup. The device wipes itself after 3 incorrect PIN attempts, protecting your assets from physical attacks.

Recovery Phrase

Your 24-word recovery phrase is generated offline on your device. This phrase allows you to recover all your cryptocurrencies on any Ledger device if yours is lost or stolen.

Choose Your Ledger Device

Most Popular

Ledger Nano X

The advanced hardware wallet with Bluetooth connectivity for mobile use. Large screen, more storage for apps, and support for 100+ cryptocurrencies simultaneously.

Best Value

Ledger Nano S Plus

The upgraded version with more memory and improved display. Perfect for managing multiple cryptocurrency accounts with USB connectivity and enhanced security features.

New

Ledger Stax

The next-generation hardware wallet with E Ink touch display. Designed by Tony Fadell, featuring wireless charging and customizable cover screen for easy asset management.

Essential Security Practices

Protect Your Recovery Phrase

Your 24-word recovery phrase is the master key to your cryptocurrency assets. Write it down on the provided recovery sheet and store it in a secure, offline location. Never digitalize or share your recovery phrase with anyone.

Verify Transactions on Device

Always verify transaction details on your Ledger device screen before confirming. This ensures that malicious software cannot alter transaction details on your computer.

Beware of Phishing

Only download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website. Be cautious of fake applications and websites attempting to steal your recovery phrase or private keys.

Regular Firmware Updates

Keep your Ledger device firmware updated to benefit from the latest security enhancements. Ledger Live will notify you when updates are available for your hardware wallet.

Start Your Ledger Setup Today

Download Ledger Live and begin securing your cryptocurrency assets

Windows

macOS

Linux

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Ledger wallet setup take? +
The complete Ledger wallet setup process typically takes 15-20 minutes. This includes unboxing your device, downloading Ledger Live, initializing your hardware wallet, setting up your PIN, writing down your recovery phrase, and installing cryptocurrency applications. The process is straightforward with our step-by-step guide at Ledger.com/Start, ensuring even beginners can securely set up their hardware wallet.
What if I lose my recovery phrase? +
If you lose your 24-word recovery phrase and your Ledger device is lost, stolen, or damaged, you will permanently lose access to your cryptocurrencies. There is no way to recover funds without the recovery phrase. This is why we emphasize creating multiple secure backups during the setup process. Store your recovery phrase in a safe place, consider using a metal backup solution for fire and water protection, and never store it digitally or share it with anyone.
Can I set up multiple cryptocurrencies? +
Yes, you can manage multiple cryptocurrencies on your Ledger device. After the initial setup, use the Manager in Ledger Live to install applications for Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Polkadot, and thousands of other supported assets. Each cryptocurrency requires its own application on your device. The Ledger Nano X can store up to 100 applications simultaneously, while the Ledger Nano S Plus can store applications for 20+ cryptocurrencies. You can always uninstall and reinstall applications as needed without affecting your funds.
Is my cryptocurrency safe during setup? +
Your cryptocurrencies remain completely secure during the Ledger wallet setup process. Private keys are generated and stored exclusively on your Ledger hardware wallet, never exposed to your computer or the internet. The setup process establishes a secure communication channel between Ledger Live and your device without compromising security. Until you complete the initialization and create your recovery phrase, no private keys are generated. The entire setup happens in a secure environment designed to protect your assets from the very beginning.

Ready to Secure Your Cryptocurrencies?

Start your Ledger wallet setup today and take control of your digital assets