Welcome to Ledger
Ledger is a leading provider of secure hardware wallets designed to keep your crypto assets safe and in your control. With millions of users around the world, Ledger helps you secure, manage, and grow your crypto portfolio. This Getting Started Hub walks you through setting up your Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, or other Ledger device via the official portal ledger.com/start.
1. What You’ll Need
Before beginning the setup process, make sure you have the following:
- A Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax device
- A USB cable (provided in box)
- A computer or smartphone
- Latest version of Ledger Live (desktop or mobile)
- Pen and secure place to store your 24-word recovery phrase
2. Navigate to ledger.com/start
The official setup and installation guide can be accessed via ledger.com/start. Do not trust any third-party sites or tools, as they could be phishing attacks.
3. Download and Install Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the official companion app for your Ledger hardware wallet. It lets you manage your coins, install apps, check balances, and send/receive crypto securely.
- Go to ledger.com/start and select your device
- Download Ledger Live for Windows, macOS, or Linux
- Install and open the application
4. Initialize Your Ledger Device
When you connect your device for the first time, you’ll be guided through the initialization process:
- Select "Set up as new device"
- Choose a secure 4-8 digit PIN code using the device buttons
- Your device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase
Important: Write down your recovery phrase on the provided sheet. Never store it digitally or take a photo.
5. Verify Recovery Phrase
After writing down your recovery phrase, Ledger will prompt you to verify it by entering selected words on the device. This step ensures you’ve correctly written it down and it matches the internal device backup.
6. Pair Ledger Live with Device
Once setup is complete, Ledger Live will prompt you to pair with your device:
- Click "Add device" inside Ledger Live
- Follow on-screen instructions to verify the device authenticity
- Device will display a confirmation code — verify it matches Ledger Live
Once verified, your Ledger device is ready to manage crypto assets securely.
7. Installing Apps on Ledger Device
To manage different cryptocurrencies, you’ll need to install specific apps on your Ledger device (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana).
- In Ledger Live, navigate to the “My Ledger” tab
- Install apps by clicking “Install” next to the coin
- Confirm installation on your device screen
8. Adding Accounts in Ledger Live
Now that the apps are installed, you can add accounts to view balances and make transactions:
- Go to "Accounts" in Ledger Live
- Click "Add account", select the crypto type
- Confirm via your Ledger device
Each account represents a public wallet address that you control with your Ledger device.
9. Sending and Receiving Crypto
Ledger Live allows you to send and receive crypto securely:
To Receive:
- Select the account and click "Receive"
- Verify the address on your Ledger device screen
- Share the verified address with sender
To Send:
- Click “Send”, enter recipient address and amount
- Verify full transaction details on the Ledger device
- Confirm with device buttons
10. Security Best Practices
- Never share your recovery phrase.
- Always verify receiving addresses on your Ledger device.
- Only download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website