Ledger.com/start | How to Set Up Your Ledger Wallet Safely

Quick summary

Ledger devices (Nano X / Nano S Plus) keep private keys offline. The official onboarding portal at ledger.com/start provides the safe installers, firmware checks, and guided setup you need. Always use only the official site.

Open Official Ledger Start

Step-by-step: Get started (high level)

Unbox and inspect your Ledger device for tampering.
Go to https://www.ledger.com/start and download Ledger Live for your OS.
Install Ledger Live, open it, and connect your Ledger device with the supplied cable.
Follow on-screen instructions: create a PIN on the device and write down the recovery (24-word) seed — offline, on paper or metal.
Install coin apps inside Ledger Live and add accounts.
Verify every transaction on the device screen before approving.

Security checklist (must-read)

✅ Always download from ledger.com/start — don’t follow random links.
✅ Never enter your 24-word recovery phrase on any website or phone; it belongs in the device only.
✅ Keep backup seed offline (paper or metal). Don’t photograph or store it digitally.
✅ Verify device firmware via Ledger Live and accept updates only from Ledger.
✅ Use device PIN & consider enabling an additional passphrase (advanced users).

Warning: If a site or person asks for your recovery phrase → it’s a scam. Close the page immediately and go to the official site.

Troubleshooting — common setup issues

Device not detected: try a different USB cable or port and restart Ledger Live.
Ledger Live update required: install the official update from ledger.com.
PIN/Passphrase problems: follow device prompts carefully; do NOT enter your recovery phrase to “fix” a login — Ledger never asks for it online.
If problems persist, use Ledger Support from the official site (support.ledger.com).

FAQ

Q: Can I set up Ledger without downloading Ledger Live?
A: Ledger Live is the recommended official companion app for most users. Some advanced workflows use other compatible tools, but always verify compatibility and safety.

Q: What happens if I lose my Ledger device?
A: You can restore accounts on any compatible device using your recovery seed. That’s why safe offline storage of the seed is critical.

Q: Is Ledger free to use?
A: The Ledger hardware is purchased once; Ledger Live software is free. Always buy hardware from authorized channels.