Securely manage, buy and grow your crypto and NFTs on Ledger Live
Welcome to Ledger.com/Start, your comprehensive guide to setting up the world's most secure cryptocurrency hardware wallet. Ledger devices provide unparalleled security for your digital assets, combining cutting-edge technology with user-friendly interfaces. Whether you're a cryptocurrency beginner or an experienced trader, this guide will walk you through every step of the setup process.
The first step in your Ledger journey begins with downloading Ledger Live, the official companion application for your Ledger hardware wallet. Ledger Live is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android platforms. Visit the official Ledger.com/Start page and select the appropriate version for your operating system. Always ensure you're downloading from the official Ledger website to avoid counterfeit software. The application is completely free and serves as your central hub for managing cryptocurrencies, viewing your portfolio, and installing apps on your device.
Once Ledger Live is installed, connect your Ledger Nano X, Ledger Nano S, or Ledger Nano S Plus to your computer using the provided USB cable. Follow the on-screen instructions to begin the initialization process. You'll be prompted to choose between setting up as a new device or restoring from a recovery phrase. For first-time users, select "Set up as new device" to generate a fresh set of private keys that will secure your cryptocurrency holdings.
Security starts with your PIN code. Choose a 4 to 8 digit PIN that you'll remember but others cannot easily guess. This PIN protects your device from unauthorized access. Never share your PIN with anyone, and avoid using obvious combinations like "1234" or your birthday. You'll need to enter this PIN every time you connect your Ledger device, so make sure it's memorable yet secure. If you enter the wrong PIN three times consecutively, your device will reset for security purposes.
The most critical step in the setup process is securely storing your 24-word recovery seed phrase. This recovery phrase is the master key to your cryptocurrency. Your Ledger device will display 24 words on its screen, one at a time. Write these words down on the provided recovery sheet in the exact order shown. Never take a photo or store this phrase digitally. If you lose your device, this recovery phrase is the only way to restore access to your funds. Store it in a secure location, such as a fireproof safe, and consider keeping multiple copies in separate secure locations.
With your device initialized, you can now install cryptocurrency apps through Ledger Live. Navigate to the "Manager" section and browse through hundreds of supported cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Cardano, Solana, and many more. Each cryptocurrency requires its specific app to be installed on your Ledger device. Simply click "Install" next to your desired cryptocurrencies. The Ledger Nano X offers more storage capacity than the Nano S, allowing you to install more apps simultaneously.
After installing your cryptocurrency apps, return to Ledger Live and add accounts for each cryptocurrency. Click "Add Account," select your cryptocurrency, and follow the prompts to create your first wallet address. You can now receive cryptocurrency by sharing your public address, which Ledger Live displays as both a string of characters and a QR code. Always verify the receiving address on your Ledger device's screen before confirming any transaction. This ensures that your computer hasn't been compromised by malware attempting to redirect your funds.
Ledger.com/Start empowers you to take full control of your cryptocurrency security. With your private keys stored offline on a secure chip, your assets remain protected from online threats, hackers, and exchange vulnerabilities. Regular firmware updates ensure your device stays protected against emerging security threats, while Ledger Live provides a seamless interface for managing your growing portfolio of digital assets and NFTs.
Your private keys never leave the secure chip, protecting your assets from online threats.
Support for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of other crypto assets and NFTs.
Over 8 million customers worldwide trust Ledger to secure their digital assets.