Welcome to your complete guide on how to get started with your Ledger hardware wallet — a secure solution to safeguarding your cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and other digital assets. Ledger hardware wallets are renowned for robust security by keeping private keys offline and under your control. Before you begin, always start with the official setup portal at Ledger.com/Start, which is the only legitimate Ledger onboarding page provided by the company. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Starting your setup at Ledger.com/Start ensures that you receive authentic software and step-by-step instructions directly from Ledger’s official support systems. This helps avoid counterfeit websites and phishing scams, which are common risks within the cryptocurrency ecosystem. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Ledger has designed this page so that all software downloads, including Ledger Live for desktop and mobile, are verified and safe. The onboarding instructions guide you through each crucial step, including device initialization, PIN and recovery phrase creation, and setting up your crypto accounts. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Before visiting Ledger.com/Start, gather the following items and prepare a secure environment:
Ensure the Ledger box’s seal is intact and the device looks new. Ledger devices are never pre-configured with PINs or recovery words, and any pre-written phrases are a red flag for tampering. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
The following steps provide a thorough walkthrough of your Ledger wallet setup using the official Ledger.com/Start flow:
Open a secure browser and manually enter the URL Ledger.com/Start into the address bar. Typing the address yourself helps reduce the risk of phishing or fake sites. Once there, select your specific Ledger model — whether it’s Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax — to begin a tailored setup process. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Ledger Live is the official application you’ll use to manage your accounts, install blockchain apps on your Ledger device, and send or receive assets. On the official start portal, choose the correct version of Ledger Live for your operating system — Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Only download Ledger Live from the official link provided at Ledger.com/Start. Avoid downloading the software from third-party sites or search results that could be malicious. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
With Ledger Live installed, connect your hardware wallet to your computer using the provided USB cable (or via Bluetooth if supported). Power on the device and follow the prompts displayed on the Ledger screen. You’ll see options such as “Set up as new device” or “Restore from recovery phrase” if you’re reconnecting an existing wallet — but for first-time users, choose to set up a new device. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Ledger’s interface uses two physical buttons on the device to navigate menus. Press both buttons simultaneously to confirm selections. This two-step confirmation is a deliberate security measure to ensure that sensitive actions aren’t executed accidentally. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Next, you’ll choose a secure PIN code directly on your Ledger device. The PIN typically includes between 4 and 8 digits. A stronger PIN (6–8 digits) provides better defense against brute-force attempts. Avoid easy or predictable combinations like “1234” or your birthdate. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
You’ll be asked to enter your PIN twice to confirm it. Memorize this PIN — if you forget it and enter it incorrectly three times, the device will reset. You can still recover access with your recovery phrase later, but the wallet will erase all data in the reset process. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
One of the most critical steps in your Ledger setup is recording the recovery phrase — a list of 24 unique words generated by the device. This phrase is the only backup you have to restore your wallet if the Ledger device is lost or damaged. Write down each word in order on the supplied recovery sheet or use a metal backup tool for long-term durability. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
Under no circumstances should you:
Once your device is initialized and secured with a PIN and recovery phrase, open Ledger Live and go to “Manager.” Here you can install support for various blockchains such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Polkadot, and many others. The apps installed on your Ledger device allow it to sign transactions for each respective network. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
After installing the apps, add accounts in Ledger Live by navigating to “Accounts” and selecting “Add account.” Choose the appropriate blockchain and follow the prompts — your Ledger device will confirm account details. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
To receive crypto, click “Receive” in Ledger Live. The app will show a wallet address. Always verify this address on your Ledger device’s screen before completing a transaction. This step guards against malware address-swapping attacks. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
For sending crypto, enter the destination address in Ledger Live and confirm the details on your Ledger device screen before approving. Confirming on-device ensures the transaction is authentic and secure. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
When using Ledger hardware wallets, follow these essential security tips:
Setting up your Ledger wallet via the official onboarding page at Ledger.com/Start puts you on a secure foundation for managing your digital assets. This process encompasses initialization, security hardening, recovery safeguards, and account configuration. By adhering to Ledger’s safety recommendations and avoiding third-party or unofficial instructions, you minimize risks and protect your cryptocurrencies from common attack vectors. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}
Follow this guide carefully, and you’ll be confidently managing your crypto holdings with one of the most trusted hardware wallet solutions available.