Ledger.com/start — Start Your Ledger Device
Official step-by-step instructions to safely initialize and manage your Ledger hardware wallet.
Welcome & safety first
Always start at ledger.com/start or the official Ledger domain. Do not follow links from emails or social networks. Your recovery phrase is the master key to your crypto — never enter it on a computer or share it with anyone.
Quick setup steps
1
Download Ledger Live
Visit
ledger.com/start to download Ledger Live for Windows, macOS, or Linux. Ledger Live is the official app for setting up your device, managing accounts, and installing apps.2
Connect your Ledger device
Use the supplied USB cable to connect your Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, etc.). Open Ledger Live and follow the on-screen prompts. Confirm everything directly on the hardware screen.
3
Initialize or restore
Choose Set up as new device to create a fresh wallet, or Restore to recover an existing wallet using your 24-word recovery phrase. Ledger will display the recovery words on the device (never on your computer).
4
Write and secure your recovery phrase
Write the 24 words on the provided recovery sheet. Store copies in secure, separate locations (paper + optional metal backup). Do not photograph or store the phrase digitally.
5
Install apps & add accounts
Use Ledger Live’s Manager to install coin-specific apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Add accounts in Ledger Live to view balances and perform transactions. All transaction approvals are done on-device.
Security reminder: Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase. Be wary of fake sites, email phishing, or phone scammers requesting your seed or one-time codes.