Ledger.com/Start — Official Hardware Wallet Setup

Welcome to the secure beginning of your Ledger hardware wallet experience. Onboarding with Ledger means you’re taking meaningful control of your cryptocurrency, NFTs, and digital assets. This page guides you through the entire process — from device connection to advanced transaction verification — with both safety and ease at the heart of every step. Start only here and only with official software and devices for maximum protection.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes. Ledger SAS does not store your recovery phrase or PIN, and cannot help you recover lost credentials. Never share your recovery phrase, PIN, or device with anyone — not even with Ledger support. Always download software directly from Ledger’s official website (ledger.com/start).

Device Compatibility

Ledger Nano S Plus
Ledger Nano X
Ledger Stax
Works on Windows, MacOS, Linux, and mobile platforms

Step-by-Step Onboarding Guide

1. Verify Your Device Is Genuine

Upon receiving your Ledger device, inspect packaging for tampering. Connect the device to your computer via USB and launch Ledger Live. The application will prompt you to check your device's authenticity. Only proceed if the authenticity check passes.
Never use a device with broken seals or suspicious packaging.

2. Download and Install Ledger Live

Download Ledger Live directly from the official website. Do not trust third-party sources. Install, open the app, and select “Set up a new device.”
Confirm prompts only on the hardware device itself; never enter private info on your computer or online.

3. Initialize Device & Create a PIN

Follow on-device instructions to set a unique PIN code. This is required at every startup and for sensitive actions. Choose a hard-to-guess code and never share it.

4. Backup Your Recovery Phrase

Your Ledger will display a 24-word recovery phrase, one word at a time.
Write each word neatly on the provided Recovery Sheet — do not type, photograph, or digitize this phrase! Once all words are recorded, confirm their accuracy by entering them back on the device.

Store your Recovery Sheet in a hidden, waterproof location.
Never share, copy, or upload your phrase. Ledger support will never ask for it.
If your phrase is exposed or lost, move your assets to a new wallet immediately.

5. Configure the Ledger Live App

Add accounts for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and supported tokens.
Verify app actions via prompts on your hardware wallet before confirming any transaction.

6. Transfer and Secure Your Assets

Move crypto assets into your new Ledger address. For each transaction, confirm details only on your device; the display there is tamper-proof. For every receive (deposit), double-check that the address matches across both the device and Ledger Live.

7. Daily Use & Advanced Options

Regularly update Ledger Live to the latest version.
Practice with small amounts first before transferring large funds.
Explore Ledger Live features: staking, Web3 apps, NFT management, multi-signature support.
Enable privacy and notification settings for maximum security.

Security Reminders

Always confirm URLs and device requests.
Beware of phishing emails, fake apps, and impersonators.
Never enter your recovery phrase or PIN outside your Ledger device.
If uncertain, refer to FAQs or reach Ledger support via official channels only.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What if I lose my recovery phrase?
A: Without your phrase, you cannot recover assets. Ledger cannot assist you. Move all funds to a new wallet if compromised.

Q: Can I use Ledger with MetaMask or other web wallets?
A: Yes, connect Ledger via browser extension integration — always verify all pop-ups and never enter your recovery phrase online.

Q: How do I update the firmware safely?
A: Use Ledger Live’s built-in update process. Only approve firmware updates from official sources.

Q: My PIN is blocked, what can I do?
A: Factory reset your Ledger after 3 failed PIN attempts. You will need your recovery phrase to restore access.

Start Now — Your Crypto, Your Security

Begin your Ledger.com/Start onboarding only from the official page. Take control, be vigilant, and keep your future secure from the very first step.

Legal & Security Disclaimer: This guide is informational only and is not provided, sponsored, or guaranteed by Ledger SAS. Always follow official documentation at ledger.com/start. Self-custody comes with personal responsibility. Loss of private credentials means loss of funds, with no third-party recourse.