Securely configure your Ledger hardware wallet and protect your crypto assets with our step-by-step guide.
Ledger is one of the world’s leading providers of hardware wallets, designed to protect cryptocurrencies by storing private keys offline. A Ledger device ensures your crypto assets are safe from online threats like hacks, phishing attacks, and malware. The setup process starts at Ledger.com/start, where you will access the official tools and instructions to initialize your device securely.
This guide covers everything you need to know to set up your Ledger wallet, including firmware installation, creating a new wallet, and safeguarding your recovery phrase.
Open your Ledger package and confirm that it contains your Ledger device (Nano S or Nano X), a USB cable, recovery sheets, and quick-start guides. Check for tamper-evident seals. Never use a device if the package appears damaged or tampered with.
Using a trusted browser, go to https://www.ledger.com/start. Avoid links in emails or third-party websites to prevent phishing scams. Ledger.com/start is the official portal to guide you through installation and setup safely.
Ledger Live is the official application to manage your wallet, check balances, send and receive crypto, and install apps for different cryptocurrencies. Download the appropriate version for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android). After installation, open Ledger Live and connect your Ledger device via USB or Bluetooth (Ledger Nano X).
New Ledger devices may come without firmware installed. The setup wizard will prompt you to install the latest official firmware. Always confirm firmware installation directly on the device screen and never from unofficial sources. Firmware ensures your device is secure, up-to-date, and functioning properly.
After firmware installation, you can create a new wallet. The device generates a unique set of private keys. Ledger will display a recovery phrase (typically 24 words), which acts as a backup for your wallet. This phrase is the master key to your crypto.
Write down your 24-word recovery phrase on the provided recovery sheets. Never store it digitally or take photos. This phrase is crucial to restore your wallet if your device is lost or damaged.
Choose a PIN code to protect your Ledger device. The PIN prevents unauthorized access if someone physically obtains your wallet. The device will scramble the number positions each time you enter the PIN, enhancing security against shoulder surfing.
After setup, Ledger Live allows you to:
Ledger supports hundreds of cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), and thousands of ERC-20 tokens. Always ensure the cryptocurrency you wish to store is supported by your Ledger device before sending funds.
Ledger devices support additional security measures:
Issues during setup may include USB connection problems, firmware installation interruptions, or recovery phrase verification errors. Solutions:
Setting up your Ledger hardware wallet at Ledger.com/start ensures you manage your crypto securely and effectively. By following the official steps, safeguarding your recovery phrase, and using Ledger Live for wallet management, you gain full control of your digital assets with maximum security.
Start Setup at Ledger.com/start