Getting Started with Your Ledger Hardware Wallet | Official Setup Guide

Welcome to Ledger—your trusted solution for secure cryptocurrency storage. Whether you're new to the world of crypto or already an experienced investor, securing your digital assets with a Ledger hardware wallet is an essential step to protecting your cryptocurrency holdings from online threats.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the easy-to-follow setup process to get started with your Ledger hardware wallet. By following these simple steps, you'll be on your way to safely managing your crypto with confidence.

Step 1: Visit Ledger.com/Start®

The first step in setting up your Ledger hardware wallet is to visit the official Ledger.com/Start® page. This is your gateway to all the resources, tools, and instructions you need to securely set up and manage your Ledger device.

URL: Ledger.com/Start®

On this page, you'll be guided through the setup process, from installing Ledger Live® (the companion app) to securing your wallet and starting to store your crypto.

Step 2: Unbox and Connect Your Ledger Device

Once you’ve opened your Ledger box, you’ll find the following items:

Ledger Nano S or Ledger Nano X (depending on your model)

USB cable (for Ledger Nano S) or USB cable & Bluetooth (for Ledger Nano X)

Recovery sheet (for writing down your 12 to 24 recovery words)

Quick start guide for easy setup instructions

What to Do:

Connect your Ledger Nano S or Ledger Nano X to your computer or mobile device using the provided USB cable (for Nano S) or Bluetooth (for Nano X).

Unlock your Ledger device by setting a PIN code (this will help protect access to your hardware wallet).

Step 3: Download Ledger Live®

Ledger Live® is the official software used to set up and manage your Ledger hardware wallet. It’s available for both desktop (Windows, macOS, and Linux) and mobile (iOS and Android), ensuring that you can manage your crypto wherever you are.

How to Install Ledger Live®:

Go to Ledger.com/Live to download the app.

Select your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux for desktop, or iOS/Android for mobile).

Follow the on-screen instructions to install Ledger Live®.

Once installed, open Ledger Live® and click on “Get Started”.

Step 4: Create a New Wallet or Restore an Existing One

Now that your Ledger device is connected and Ledger Live® is installed, you can choose to create a new wallet or restore an existing one.

1. Create a New Wallet:

If you are setting up your Ledger wallet for the first time, you will need to create a new wallet by following these steps:

Select “Create New Wallet” in Ledger Live®.

Set up a PIN code (a 4–8 digit code that will protect access to your Ledger device).

Write down your recovery phrase (12 to 24 words) on the recovery sheet. This phrase is essential for recovering your wallet if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged.

Confirm your recovery phrase by selecting the words in the correct order. This ensures you've written it down correctly and are prepared for recovery.

2. Restore an Existing Wallet:

If you already have a recovery phrase from a previous Ledger device, you can restore your wallet:

Select “Restore Wallet” in Ledger Live®.

Enter your recovery phrase (the 12 to 24 words you wrote down earlier).

Follow the rest of the setup instructions to complete the process.

Step 5: Secure Your Ledger Wallet

Once your wallet is set up, it’s time to ensure it’s as secure as possible.

Tips for Enhancing Security:

Store your recovery phrase safely: Keep your recovery sheet in a safe place, such as a fireproof safe or safety deposit box. Never store it digitally or online.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for added protection, especially if you plan to use third-party apps or exchanges that support 2FA.

Always update your Ledger firmware: Regular updates help ensure your device stays protected against emerging threats.

Use a passphrase: For advanced users, adding a passphrase to your wallet adds an extra layer of security. This is recommended for anyone holding a significant amount of cryptocurrency.

Step 6: Add Your Cryptocurrencies to Ledger Live®

Once you’ve set up your Ledger wallet and secured it, you’re ready to start adding cryptocurrencies.

Add Accounts: In Ledger Live®, you can easily add multiple cryptocurrency accounts. Whether you’re holding Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), or hundreds of other supported altcoins, Ledger Live® gives you a clear overview of your portfolio.

Install Apps for Different Coins: Ledger devices support a wide range of cryptocurrencies, and you can install apps for each coin via Ledger Live®. For example, if you want to store Bitcoin, you’ll need to install the Bitcoin app on your device.

To Install a Coin’s App:

Go to the Manager section of Ledger Live®.

Choose the cryptocurrency you want to add and click on “Install”.

Step 7: Sending and Receiving Crypto

Now that your Ledger wallet is set up, you can begin managing your assets by sending and receiving cryptocurrency.

To Send Cryptocurrency:

Open Ledger Live® and select the account you want to send from.

Click “Send” and enter the recipient’s address and amount.

Review the transaction details, and confirm it on your Ledger device to authorize the transaction.

To Receive Cryptocurrency:

In Ledger Live®, go to the account you want to receive funds into.

Click “Receive” to display your wallet’s public address.

Share the address with the sender, who will use it to transfer the cryptocurrency to your wallet.

Why Choose Ledger?

Ledger provides the most secure way to manage your cryptocurrency. Here’s why millions trust Ledger hardware wallets for storing their digital assets:

Cold Storage: Your private keys are stored offline, making them virtually immune to online threats.

Multi-Currency Support: Store over 1,800 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of altcoins.

Advanced Security Features: From PIN codes and recovery phrases to firmware updates and passphrases, Ledger gives you complete control over your crypto security.

User-Friendly Setup: With Ledger Live®, managing your crypto portfolio has never been easier.

Conclusion

Congratulations on getting started with your Ledger hardware wallet! By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ve taken the first step toward securely managing and storing your cryptocurrency. Whether you’re holding Bitcoin for the long term or actively trading altcoins, Ledger’s combination of security and ease of use ensures that your assets are always safe and under your control.

To continue your crypto journey with confidence, download Ledger Live® today and start managing your digital wealth securely.

Get started now by visiting Ledger.com/Start® and take control of your crypto today!