Ledger.com Start Page — Set Up, Restore & Protect Your Crypto Wallet

Welcome. This official start page walks you through initializing a Ledger device, installing Ledger Live, safely backing up and restoring your wallet, and adopting best practices to protect your digital assets.

Why use Ledger?

Ledger hardware wallets store your private keys in a secure element on the device — an isolated chip that never exposes your keys to the internet. Unlike custodial services or software-only wallets, Ledger gives you physical control of your keys so you truly own your crypto.

Quick point: Even if a computer you use is compromised, your private keys remain protected on the Ledger device. Security relies on the device + your good practices.

Before you start

Prepare the following before beginning the setup:

  • Your Ledger device (e.g., Nano X, Nano S Plus) and the official box contents.
  • A computer or smartphone with a USB port (or Bluetooth for Nano X) and internet access.
  • The recovery sheet included in the box or a metal backup plate if you have one available.
  • Time and a private place—do not rush setup and do it out of sight of others.

Important: Always use official Ledger resources. Type ledger.com/start yourself and download Ledger Live only from Ledger's website. Do not follow links received by email or social media.

Unboxing & authenticity

Open your package and inspect the contents. Ledger devices do not rely on tamper stickers — authenticity is verified during setup via cryptographic attestation.

  1. Confirm the device, USB cable, recovery sheets and quick start guide are present.
  2. If anything looks pre-filled or suspicious, do not use the device and contact official Ledger support.
  3. Keep the packaging for reference.

Initial setup — create or restore

Connect your Ledger to a computer or power it on. Choose between Create a new device or Restore from recovery phrase if you already have one.

  1. Select language and follow on-device prompts.
  2. Choose Set up as new device unless restoring.
  3. Create a PIN code using the device buttons (4–8 digits recommended).

Never share your PIN or recovery phrase. Ledger will never ask for them.

The device will show a 24-word recovery phrase. Write every word down in order on the supplied recovery sheets.

  1. Write clearly and double-check spelling and order.
  2. Do not store the phrase digitally — no photos, screenshots, notes, or cloud backups.
  3. Consider a metal backup for fire/water resistance and long-term durability.

Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile application that lets you manage accounts, install apps on your device, and send/receive assets. To install:

  1. Visit ledger.com/start and download Ledger Live for your OS.
  2. Install and launch Ledger Live, then choose Get started.
  3. Connect your Ledger device and allow Ledger Live to verify it. Follow firmware update prompts if any.

Ledger Live performs a secure attestation to ensure your device is genuine before exposing account management features.

Install apps & add accounts

Each blockchain (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) requires an app installed on the Ledger device. Install apps via Ledger Live:

  1. Open Ledger Live → My Ledger.
  2. Allow the device connection and install the crypto apps you need.
  3. Then go to Accounts → Add account and follow the prompts to add each asset’s account.

Apps can be uninstalled and reinstalled without losing funds—your private keys are preserved by the recovery phrase.

Send & receive: best practices

Receiving

  1. In Ledger Live click Receive, choose an account and open its app on the device.
  2. Verify the address shown on the device matches Ledger Live before sharing it.

Sending

  1. Click Send in Ledger Live, enter recipient and amount.
  2. Confirm the transaction details shown on the device and approve only if they match.

Always confirm addresses and amounts on the device screen; never trust only the computer display. This prevents malware from substituting addresses.

Restore from recovery phrase

If your device is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can restore your wallet to a new compatible Ledger (or other BIP39-compatible wallet) using the 24-word recovery phrase:

  1. On the new device choose Restore from recovery phrase.
  2. Carefully enter each word in the correct order using the device buttons.
  3. Set a new PIN when prompted and reconnect to Ledger Live.

After syncing, your accounts and balances will reappear once Ledger Live finishes scanning the blockchain.

Security best practices

  • Never share your 24-word recovery phrase or PIN with anyone.
  • Keep the recovery phrase offline and in multiple secure locations if possible.
  • Use a metal backup to protect against physical damage.
  • Enable a passphrase only if you understand the risks and back it up carefully—passphrases are powerful but irreversible if forgotten.
  • Keep Ledger Live and firmware updated—security fixes are released periodically.
  • Manually type official Ledger URLs and bookmark them; avoid unsolicited links or support messages asking for secrets.
If someone asks for your recovery phrase, it’s a scam. Ledger support will never request it.

Advanced options: passphrase & multiple accounts

A passphrase is an optional extra word (or phrase) that extends your recovery phrase into a different wallet. It creates a hidden wallet and can add plausible deniability, but if forgotten, access is lost permanently.

Use passphrases only if you fully understand how they work and you have a secure, reliable way to store them.

Troubleshooting & FAQ

My device isn't detected by Ledger Live
Try a different USB cable or port, ensure the device is unlocked and the correct app is open, and restart Ledger Live and your computer.
What if I forget my PIN?
Reset the device and restore it using your 24-word recovery phrase on the same or a new Ledger device.
Can Ledger be hacked remotely?
Ledger devices keep private keys offline. Remote hacks typically target recovery phrases or phishing attacks — follow best practices to avoid these risks.
Where do I get official support?
Always use the official Ledger website and support portal at ledger.com/start for downloads, firmware, and verified help.

Final words — secure and own your crypto

Setting up your Ledger properly ensures that you are the only one who controls your private keys. Take the time to write down and protect your recovery phrase, verify transactions on-device, and use Ledger Live downloaded from the official site. With these steps you reduce risk and keep control of your digital assets for the long term.

This page provides educational information on using Ledger hardware wallets. It is not financial advice. For firmware downloads, step-by-step interactive setup, and verified support resources, go to ledger.com/start.