Welcome to Ledger — Secure Crypto Management
Ledger is the most trusted name in cryptocurrency hardware wallets. Whether you own Bitcoin, Ethereum, or any of the 5,500+ supported assets, using a Ledger device ensures your keys remain offline and in your control.
This guide walks you through the full setup of your Ledger Nano S Plus or Nano X using the official onboarding portal: ledger.com/start.
📦 What You Need
- Your Ledger device (Nano S Plus or Nano X)
- USB cable or Bluetooth (for Nano X)
- Computer with Chrome or Brave browser
- Ledger Live installed or available to install
- Pen and the recovery sheet included in your box
Step 1: Visit Ledger.com/Start
Open your browser and go to www.ledger.com/start. This ensures you're not falling for phishing websites or fake software downloads.
Step 2: Download Ledger Live
Ledger Live is your dashboard to set up your wallet, update firmware, install apps, and manage crypto. Choose the version for your operating system and follow installation instructions.
Quick Keyboard Tips:
- Ctrl + J — Open downloads folder (Windows/Linux)
- Cmd + Space → Type “Ledger Live” on macOS
Step 3: Initialize the Device
Connect your Ledger device and select “Initialize as new device.” You will be prompted to:
- Choose a secure PIN code (4–8 digits)
- Confirm it by re-entering
- Write down the 24-word recovery phrase
Step 4: Verify and Confirm
Ledger Live will ask you to confirm each word of your recovery phrase. This ensures you wrote it down correctly. Take your time — rushing can result in loss of funds.
Step 5: Install Apps
Ledger uses "apps" to manage different blockchains. You can install the Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Solana apps (and many others) through Ledger Live.
- Go to My Ledger in the app
- Unlock your device with your PIN
- Install apps as needed
Step 6: Add Accounts
Once apps are installed, go to “Accounts” and add the coins you want to manage. Ledger Live will scan your device and sync your balances.
Smart Tip:
Use Ctrl + Shift + R to hard refresh Ledger Live if it seems stuck.
Step 7: Receive and Send Crypto
Use the “Receive” tab to get your wallet address. Always verify the address on your device screen. When sending, Ledger will ask for on-device confirmation.
Advanced: Enable Passphrase Wallet
Expert users may add a 25th word (passphrase) for even deeper security. This creates a hidden wallet that requires both your PIN and custom passphrase to access.
Security Checklist
- ✅ Always buy from ledger.com or verified resellers
- ✅ Verify packaging seal on arrival
- ✅ Never share your recovery phrase
- ✅ Use a strong PIN and keep your device updated