Official Site® | Lédger.com/Start® | Getting Started

m.a.rl

— 3 min read

Securing your cryptocurrency begins with the right tools. A Ledger hardware wallet allows you to store, manage, and control your digital assets safely. Unlike software wallets or exchange accounts, Ledger keeps your private keys offline, protecting them from hackers, malware, and phishing attacks.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to start using your Ledger device confidently, from unboxing to sending and receiving crypto.

1. What You’ll Need Before You Begin

Before setting up your Ledger wallet, gather:

  • Your Ledger device (Nano S Plus or Nano X)
  • A computer or smartphone
  • A USB cable (included with the device)
  • A quiet, private space
  • A pen and paper for your 24-word recovery phrase
⚠️ Never share your recovery phrase with anyone. Ledger will never ask for it online. Do not store it digitally.

2. Access Ledger’s Official Start Page

Go to Ledger.com/Start by typing the URL manually in your browser. The page provides:

  • Setup instructions for your specific Ledger model
  • Verified download links for Ledger Live (desktop and mobile app)
  • Official guides for security best practices

Avoid following links from messages, emails, or social media, as they may be fraudulent.

3. Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official app to manage your crypto portfolio. It connects to your Ledger device to help you:

  • Check balances
  • Send and receive crypto
  • Update firmware
  • Install apps for different coins

Choose the appropriate version for your operating system:

  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux
  • iOS / Android (for Ledger Nano X via Bluetooth)

After downloading, install the app and launch it.

4. Set Up Your Ledger Device

Connect your Ledger wallet to your computer or smartphone and follow these steps:

Step 1: Initialize the Device

  • Select “Set up as new device” in Ledger Live.

Step 2: Set a PIN

  • Choose a secure 4–8 digit PIN. You’ll need it every time you unlock the wallet.

Step 3: Backup Your Recovery Phrase

  • The device will display 24 unique words.
  • Write them down exactly in order on the provided recovery sheet.
  • Store this sheet in a safe place—offline and secure.

Step 4: Confirm the Recovery Phrase

  • Ledger will ask you to verify several words to ensure accuracy.
The recovery phrase is your ultimate backup. Losing it means losing access to your funds.

5. Add Accounts in Ledger Live

Ledger supports multiple cryptocurrencies. To manage them:

  1. Open Ledger Live
  2. Navigate to Accounts → Add account
  3. Select your preferred cryptocurrency
  4. Install the corresponding app on your Ledger device

This ensures your crypto is managed securely on-device while visible in Ledger Live.

6. Receiving Crypto

To receive funds safely:

  1. In Ledger Live, select Receive
  2. Pick the account for the cryptocurrency you want
  3. Your Ledger device will display a receiving address
  4. Verify the address on the device screen
  5. Share only the verified address
Always confirm the address on the Ledger itself, not just on your computer screen.

7. Sending Crypto

To send crypto:

  1. Open Ledger Live and go to Send
  2. Enter the recipient’s address and amount
  3. Choose the transaction fee
  4. Confirm details on your Ledger device
  5. Approve the transaction physically using the buttons
Transactions cannot proceed without manual confirmation on the device, keeping your crypto safe.

8. Security Best Practices

Protect your funds by following these rules:

  • Keep your recovery phrase offline and secure
  • Always verify receiving addresses on the Ledger device
  • Update firmware regularly for security improvements
  • Avoid sharing sensitive information online
  • Only download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website

9. Recovering Your Wallet

If your Ledger is lost, damaged, or stolen:

  1. Get a new Ledger device
  2. Select Restore from recovery phrase during setup
  3. Enter your 24-word phrase

Your crypto lives on the blockchain—Ledger just provides secure access.

10. Next Steps

Once your Ledger wallet is set up, you can:

  • Manage multiple cryptocurrencies
  • Track your portfolio in real-time
  • Swap or sell crypto directly from Ledger Live
  • Interact with decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms safely
  • Store NFTs securely

With your private keys offline, your crypto is protected while remaining fully under your control.

Summary

Getting started with Ledger is straightforward and designed with security in mind. By installing Ledger Live, setting up your device, backing up your recovery phrase, and following safe practices, you can safely send, receive, and store cryptocurrency. Ledger ensures that your digital assets remain secure, private, and fully under your control—giving you peace of mind in the volatile world of crypto.

Read more