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

Welcome to the official Ledger Getting Started page. This guide is your companion from unboxing your Ledger device to confidently managing your crypto securely. Whether you are new to hardware wallets or upgrading from software, this resource walks you through each step at ledger.com/start.

Why Ledger? Your Secure Crypto Foundation

Ledger’s hardware wallets provide unmatched security for your digital assets. By keeping your private keys offline within a secure element, Ledger ensures that your funds remain protected from online threats, phishing attacks, and malware.

Here are the core advantages:

• Top-tier Security: Private keys never leave the device.
• Multi-asset Support: Manage Bitcoin, Ethereum, NFTs, and more.
• Ease of Use: Ledger Live simplifies management on desktop/mobile.
• Recoverability: 24-word recovery phrase lets you restore access.
• Regular Updates: Firmware and app updates keep defenses strong.

Supported Ledger Devices

Ledger offers multiple models suited for different users. Choose based on your usage style and preferences:

• Ledger Nano S Plus: Compact, affordable, ideal for beginners.
• Ledger Nano X: Bluetooth support, more storage, mobile-ready.
• Ledger Stax: Advanced features with touchscreen and e-ink display.

1. Setting Up Your Ledger: From Box to Wallet

Step 1: Unbox Carefully

Inspect the packaging for tamper-evidence. Inside, you should find:

• Ledger device
• USB cable(s)
• Recovery phrase backup card
• Quick start instructions

Step 2: Visit the Official Start Page

Open your browser and head to ledger.com/start. This is where you will download Ledger Live and get guided installation. Never rely on unsolicited links.

Step 3: Download & Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official companion software. Available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, it lets you manage your crypto securely.

Step 4: Initialize Device

Follow the prompts:

1. Choose “Initialize as new device”
2. Set a secure PIN (4–8 digits)
3. Write down the 24-word recovery phrase shown on device
4. Confirm randomly selected words to verify memory

Your recovery phrase is the master key — store it offline, never share it, and never digitize it.

Step 5: Install Crypto Apps

Within Ledger Live, install apps for the assets you plan to use (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Each app enables interaction with that blockchain.

Step 6: Add Accounts & Receive Funds

Once apps are installed, add accounts in Ledger Live. Use the generated public address to receive crypto from exchanges or wallets.

2. Navigating Ledger Live

Ledger Live is your dashboard and control center:

• Check balances and portfolio overview
• Send & receive assets securely
• Swap between supported cryptocurrencies
• Stake assets to earn rewards
• Update device firmware

Receive Cryptocurrency

Select the account, click “Receive,” and verify the address shown on your device matches the one in Ledger Live.

Send Cryptocurrency

Create a transaction in Ledger Live, verify details on your device screen, and confirm.

Swap & Exchange

Use swaps built into Ledger Live to convert between supported coins using integrated partners.

3. Security Best Practices

Ledger provides strong security by design, but your habits matter:

• Never share your recovery phrase or PIN. Ledger staff will never ask for them.
• Use a strong, unpredictable PIN. Avoid patterns or repeated digits.
• Update firmware regularly. Updates often patch vulnerabilities or enhance functionality.
• Always verify transactions on the device screen. If something looks off, cancel.
• Backup your recovery phrase in multiple physical locations. Avoid digital storage (screenshots, text files).
• Use passphrase feature wisely (advanced users only). This adds a hidden layer but also increases complexity.

4. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Device Not Detected by Ledger Live?

Check USB cable, ports, and ensure the device is unlocked. Try a different cable or USB port.

Lost Recovery Phrase?

If your device is still functional, create a new wallet and move funds. If lost and device is gone, recovery is impossible.

Firmware Update Fails?

Restart Ledger Live, reconnect the device, and retry. Ensure you’re using the official software version from ledger.com.

Phishing or Suspicious Messages?

Ledger will never ask you to enter your recovery phrase via email or chat. Report all suspicious attempts to security@ledger.com.

5. Advanced Usage & Tips

• Enable passphrases for additional hidden wallet(s)
• Use multiple accounts to separate funds by purpose
• Integrate Ledger with third-party dApps via Web3 bridges safely
• Combine Ledger with cold storage strategies (e.g., paper wallets)

6. Supported Assets & Networks

Ledger supports thousands of tokens across many blockchains, including:

• Bitcoin (BTC)
• Ethereum (ETH) & ERC‑20 tokens
• Solana (SOL)
• Polkadot (DOT)
• Cardano (ADA)
• Binance Smart Chain (BEP‑20 tokens)
• Ripple (XRP)
• And many more

7. Choosing the Right Device for You

Here’s a quick guide to help you select:

• Casual User: Nano S Plus is lightweight, efficient, and affordable.
• Mobile-Focused: Nano X with Bluetooth is ideal for smartphone usage.
• Premium Experience: Stax delivers advanced UI, e-ink, and additional features.

8. Getting Support & Learning More

Ledger provides rich resources and support to help you navigate your crypto journey:

• Ledger Support Center — documentation, FAQs, and guides
• Ledger Blog — news, security updates, announcements
• Ledger Community Forums — help from users and experts