Introduction
Welcome! If you've landed on Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start®, you're likely ready to take control of your crypto assets using a Ledger hardware wallet. This guide is designed for people who want clear, pragmatic instructions highlighted by designer-friendly visuals and accessible explanations. We'll cover everything from unboxing, initial setup, security best practices, to day-to-day use and troubleshooting.
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Why choose Ledger?
Ledger hardware wallets store the private keys that control your crypto in an offline device — a method called cold storage. Compared with software wallets or exchanges, a hardware wallet dramatically reduces the risk of hacking, malware, and phishing attacks. Ledger devices are compact, travel-friendly, and integrate with many wallets and services.
Security model in a nutshell
Ledger's security model centers on three pillars:
- Isolated private keys: keys never leave the device.
- PIN protection: access requires a PIN code you set during setup.
- Recovery phrase: a 24-word seed stored offline — your last resort to restore funds.
What you'll need
- Ledger device (e.g., Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X).
- Computer or mobile device with internet access.
- USB cable or Bluetooth (depending on your model).
- A quiet, private place to complete the setup.
Unboxing & initial checks
Inspect the packaging
Official Ledger packaging has tamper-evident seals and a distinctive design. If the packaging looks damaged or tampered with, don't use the device — contact the seller or Ledger support. Ledger sells devices through its official website; avoid buying from random auction listings when possible.
What’s inside the box?
- The Ledger device itself.
- A USB cable.
- Recovery sheets or cards to write your 24-word phrase.
- A keychain or lanyard for some models.
Quick checklist
- Box sealed and intact.
- Device powers on.
- No pre-filled recovery words on the recovery card.
Step-by-step: Setup using Ledger.com/Start
Use your computer or phone and open Ledger.com/Start. Follow the on-screen setup flow. Below is an annotated, human-friendly version of those steps.
1) Choose your device
Select the Ledger model you have and follow the prompts. Different models vary only in connectivity (USB/Bluetooth) and screen size; fundamentally the setup is the same.
2) Initialize the device
- Power on the Ledger by pressing the physical buttons.
- Select "Set up as new device" unless you are restoring from an existing recovery phrase.
- Choose a PIN code (6-8 digits recommended). Never share your PIN.
3) Write down your recovery phrase
The device will show a sequence of 24 words — this is your recovery phrase. Write them down in order on the supplied recovery sheet. Keep this sheet in a secure, fireproof place. Do NOT store it digitally, do NOT photograph it, and don't share it with anyone.
Recovery phrase best practices
- Write the words clearly and in order.
- Store the sheet separately from the device.
- Consider institutional-grade options (steel seed storage) for long-term holdings.
4) Confirm your recovery phrase
The device will ask you to confirm a few words to verify that you wrote them correctly. This is normal and part of Ledger's flow.
5) Install Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the companion app that lets you manage accounts, install apps on the device, and monitor balances. Download from Ledger.com/Live or follow the link on Ledger.com/Start.
6) Add accounts
Open Ledger Live, connect your device, and choose which cryptocurrency accounts to add (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Ledger Live will guide you through installing the necessary app on your Ledger device.
Security tips & common pitfalls
Never share your recovery phrase
If anyone asks for your 24 words — even "support" — do not share them. Ledger employees will never ask for your recovery phrase.
Recognize phishing attempts
Phishing attempts commonly occur via email, social media, fake websites, or support chat. Always verify the URL (official Ledger links start with https://www.ledger.com) and never click links sent from unknown sources when managing funds.
Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated
Ledger periodically releases firmware updates to improve security and compatibility. Always update firmware from Ledger Live when prompted — but verify the update flow on the device itself and follow official instructions.
Use passphrase (advanced)
Ledger supports an optional passphrase (sometimes called the 25th word) which adds another layer of security. Be aware: if you lose the passphrase, you lose access to the accounts derived from it. Use with caution and consider this only if you understand the tradeoffs.
Daily use: sending & receiving crypto
Receiving crypto
To receive funds, open the account in Ledger Live and click "Receive". Confirm the full address on the device screen: the address shown in the app must match the address shown on your Ledger device.
Sending crypto
To send funds, prepare the transaction in Ledger Live or a compatible wallet, then confirm details on your device. Ledger requires physical button presses to authorize transactions — keeping a human in the loop guards against remote compromise.
Third-party wallets & dApps
Ledger integrates with many wallets and decentralized apps (dApps). When connecting to third-party apps, confirm the site URL and transaction details on your device before signing.
Backup & recovery (restore flow)
If your device is lost or damaged, you can recover your accounts using the 24-word recovery phrase on any compatible hardware or software wallet. To restore via Ledger.com/Start, follow the restore flow exactly and type the words in the order shown on your recovery sheet.
Test your recovery
After setup, it's wise to test recovery on a spare device or emulator (if available) to ensure your written seed works. Do this in a safe environment — never test by sending large funds until you're confident.
Troubleshooting & FAQs
My device won't turn on
Check the cable and power source. Try a different USB port or cable. If still failing, contact Ledger support via the official site.
I lost my recovery sheet — what now?
If you lose your recovery sheet, locate any backups. If none exist, treat funds as at risk. If you still have the device and access, create a new device and transfer funds to a wallet with a securely stored recovery phrase.
Can Ledger be hacked?
While nothing is invulnerable, Ledger's architecture minimizes remote hacks because private keys never leave the device. Most successful crypto thefts involve social engineering, phishing, or users revealing recovery words.
Advanced topics
Using a passphrase
A passphrase is an optional additional word or phrase added to your recovery phrase. It creates separate, hidden wallets. Manage passphrases carefully — they are not recoverable by Ledger.
Multisig & institutional use
For higher security or institutional funds, Ledger devices can be used within multisig setups. This reduces single-point-of-failure risk but increases operational complexity.
Moving between devices
If upgrading to a new Ledger device, use your 24-word seed to restore on the new device rather than transferring seeds directly. Check firmware compatibility and follow official upgrade guides.
Conclusion & next steps
Setting up a Ledger device via Ledger.com/Start is a significant step towards self-custody and security. Follow the steps in this guide and Ledger's official resources; prioritize your recovery phrase and stay vigilant against phishing. With the right habits, hardware wallets offer a reliable way to keep long-term crypto holdings safe.