Ledger.com/start — Official Setup Guide

Step-by-step instructions to set up your Ledger hardware wallet, install Ledger Live, secure your recovery phrase, and start managing crypto safely.

Before you start — what you'll need

Make sure you have a clean, private workspace. The Ledger setup process requires writing down your recovery phrase by hand — do not store it digitally. Gather the following:

  • Your new Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or other Ledger model) and the supplied cable.
  • A computer or mobile device with internet access.
  • A pen and a secure place to store the recovery phrase (paper or metal backup).

1) Download and install Ledger Live

Only download Ledger Live from the official site. Ledger Live is the companion app that lets you install apps on your device, manage accounts, send and receive cryptocurrency, and update firmware.

  1. Open a browser and go to ledger.com/start (or the official Ledger downloads page).
  2. Download Ledger Live for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux) or install the mobile app from official app stores.
  3. Install and launch Ledger Live. Follow the on-screen prompts to get started.

Use a fresh browser profile or trusted device if you're concerned about browser extensions or system malware.

2) Connect your Ledger and initialize

  1. Open Ledger Live and choose Initialize as new device when prompted.
  2. Connect your Ledger device to your computer or phone using the supplied cable and follow the on-device prompts.
  3. Set a PIN directly on the device — choose a memorable but strong PIN.
  4. Write down the 24-word recovery phrase shown by the device exactly, in order. Do not take photos or store the phrase digitally.
  5. Confirm your recovery phrase on the device when asked to complete initialization.

Never share your 24-word recovery phrase. Ledger support will never ask for these words. Anyone with your recovery phrase can access your funds.

3) Add accounts and manage crypto

After initialization, add cryptocurrency accounts in Ledger Live and install the corresponding apps on your Ledger device.

  1. In Ledger Live, go to Manager and install apps for the coins you want to manage (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
  2. Then go to Accounts and Add account. Ledger Live will derive addresses from your device.
  3. To receive funds, copy the receive address shown in Ledger Live and verify the address on your Ledger device screen before sharing it.

For some tokens or networks you might need to add custom tokens or enable third-party integrations — always verify permissions and addresses on-device.

Security best practices

Advanced: Consider using third-party tools for coin-specific features (staking, DeFi). Only connect to trusted integrations and always confirm transactions on-device.

Troubleshooting & FAQ

Device not detected

Try a different USB cable or port, ensure Ledger Live is allowed through your firewall, and restart your computer. Mobile users should ensure the device is paired properly.

Forgot PIN

If you forget your PIN, reset the device to factory settings and recover your accounts using the recovery phrase.

Lost recovery phrase

If you lose your recovery phrase and lose access to your device, your funds cannot be recovered. Store the phrase securely and consider multiple backups in separate locations.

Need help?

For detailed tutorials, firmware notes, and official support, visit the Ledger support pages. If you suspect tampering or a security incident, contact official Ledger support directly via the channels listed on ledger.com.