Ledger.com/Start® helps beginners and professionals safely initialize their Ledger devices. With hardware-based security and top-tier cryptographic protections, Ledger ensures that digital assets remain isolated from online threats. This guide covers each stage of setting up your Ledger device, from unboxing to transaction confirmation. The process is designed to give users full clarity, transparency, and safety while navigating the crypto world.
When you receive your Ledger device, ensure the packaging is sealed and undamaged. Ledger never sends devices with pre-set recovery phrases nor asks users for personal seeds. The box should contain your Ledger Nano device, a USB cable, recovery sheets, and documentation. If any item appears tampered with, stop immediately and contact official support before proceeding.
Tip: Never use a recovery phrase generated by anyone else. Always generate your own phrase during setup.
Visit Ledger.com/Start® using a secure browser. Connect your device using the provided USB cable. Follow the on-screen prompts to download Ledger Live, the official device management and crypto portfolio application. Ledger Live supports desktop and mobile for flexible device management.
Once Ledger Live is installed, launch the application and select “Initialize as a new device.” Follow the steps to choose a unique PIN code. Your PIN protects the device against unauthorized access. Do not reuse PINs or store them digitally where they might be exposed.
Security Note: Use a PIN that is easy for you to remember but impossible for others to guess.
Your Ledger device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is the master key to all your crypto accounts. Write all 24 words carefully in the correct order on the provided recovery sheets. Never take photos of the phrase, never share it online, and never type it into any website or application.
Ledger will require you to confirm select words to verify correct recording. Store the recovery sheet in a secure, offline, fire-resistant location.
Ledger Live allows you to install specific apps for cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other supported networks. Each asset has its own app, which ensures better isolation and protection. After installing the necessary apps, you can create or manage existing crypto accounts inside Ledger Live.
To add an account, navigate to the accounts tab within Ledger Live. Select the network and asset type you want to add. Connect your Ledger device and approve the operation. Once added, your account becomes visible within your portfolio dashboard, allowing you to monitor balances and transaction history with full security assurance.
To receive funds, open the relevant crypto account and click “Receive.” Ledger Live will display a receive address that you must verify on your Ledger device screen. Always confirm the address matches exactly on your device hardware screen before sharing it. This step protects your assets from malware attempting to redirect transactions.
When sending crypto, enter the recipient address in Ledger Live, specify the amount, and review network fees. Approve the transaction on your Ledger device. Hardware confirmation ensures only you can authorize outgoing transfers.
Reminder: Transactions on most blockchains are irreversible once broadcast.
Ledger periodically releases firmware updates that improve performance, compatibility, and security. Always update via Ledger Live and ensure your recovery phrase is backed up before performing updates. Never trust update prompts from websites or emails outside Ledger.com.
If Ledger Live fails to detect your device, try switching USB cables or ports. Restart device and application, then reconnect. Ledger support documentation covers various connectivity, PIN, and recovery issues. Avoid third-party troubleshooting guides unless verified safe.
Ledger provides secure crypto storage through offline hardware encryption. Unlike software wallets, a Ledger device isolates private keys from internet threats. Combined with Ledger Live, users get real-time portfolio management with full security oversight.