Ledger.com/Start – Official Ledger Wallet Setup Guide

Welcome to the Official Ledger Start Page

Thank you for choosing Ledger – the most secure way to protect and manage your cryptocurrency assets. This official guide will walk you through everything you need to know to set up your Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X, from unboxing to security tips and ongoing maintenance. Whether you're just starting your crypto journey or already a pro, proper setup ensures your digital assets are protected for the long term.

1. What You Get with Your Ledger Device

Your Ledger hardware wallet includes the following items:

• Ledger Nano X or Nano S Plus hardware wallet
• USB-C cable
• Three recovery phrase cards
• Instruction manual and legal notice

If your device is missing any items or shows signs of tampering, do not use it and contact Ledger Support immediately.

2. Download and Install Ledger Live

The Ledger Live app is the official interface for managing your Ledger hardware wallet. Download it ONLY from the official site: ledger.com/start.

• Available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS
• Used to install apps, manage crypto accounts, and check balances
• Includes secure update and backup functionality

3. Initialize Your Ledger Device

After opening Ledger Live, follow these steps to initialize your hardware wallet:

1. Connect your Ledger device to your computer or smartphone.
2. Select “Set up as new device.”
3. Choose a PIN code (4 to 8 digits).
4. Carefully write down your 24-word recovery phrase.

Warning: Never take a photo or digital copy of your recovery phrase. Write it down and store it securely offline.

4. Confirm Your Recovery Phrase

The device will prompt you to verify selected words from your 24-word recovery phrase. This process ensures you have recorded the phrase correctly. Losing this phrase means losing access to your assets — forever.

5. Install Cryptocurrency Apps

Ledger devices use apps for each cryptocurrency. To manage Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and others, install the appropriate app via Ledger Live.

• Go to the “Manager” tab in Ledger Live
• Select and install apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP)
• Each app allows the device to recognize and sign transactions for that asset

6. Create and Manage Accounts

After installing crypto apps, go to the “Accounts” tab to add accounts for each asset. Accounts store your wallet addresses, transaction history, and balances.

7. Receiving Crypto

To receive crypto:

• Select the asset and account
• Click “Receive”
• Verify the address on your Ledger device screen
• Copy and share the verified address

Always verify the receiving address on your Ledger device, not just in Ledger Live, to avoid address spoofing attacks.

8. Sending Crypto

Sending is simple but secure:

1. Choose an account and click “Send”
2. Enter recipient address and amount
3. Physically confirm the transaction on your Ledger device

9. Advanced Security Practices

• Use a metal backup to protect your 24-word phrase from fire or water damage
• Enable password lock and automatic screen timeout
• Avoid using public Wi-Fi while managing crypto
• Regularly check Ledger's blog for updates and security alerts

10. Ledger Recover (Optional Feature)

Ledger Recover is a subscription-based recovery service that splits your recovery phrase into encrypted fragments and stores them with three independent providers. This is an optional feature and must be enabled manually with identity verification. Learn more at Ledger.com/Recover.

11. Web3 Access & NFTs

Your Ledger device works with WalletConnect, MetaMask, and Ledger Extension to securely interact with dApps and NFT marketplaces. All transactions, including signing smart contracts or minting NFTs, must be verified on the Ledger device screen before approval.

12. Firmware Updates

Ledger regularly releases security patches and firmware improvements. Always use Ledger Live to check and install official updates. Never install anything from third-party sources.

13. Lost Device? Don’t Panic.

If your Ledger device is lost or damaged, you can recover your entire wallet using your 24-word phrase