Secure Ledger Wallet Setup | ledger.com/start

Welcome to the official Ledger wallet setup guide! This guide will walk you through the process of securely setting up your Ledger hardware wallet, which is one of the best tools for storing and managing cryptocurrencies. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced crypto enthusiast, following this guide ensures that your assets are protected and easily accessible.

What You'll Need

Before you begin setting up your Ledger wallet, make sure you have the following items:

Note: The recovery seed is vital for restoring access to your wallet in case your device is lost, stolen, or damaged. Keep it in a safe and secure location.

Step 1: Visit Ledger's Official Setup Page

To start the setup process, open your browser and navigate to the official Ledger setup page: ledger.com/start. This page will guide you through the installation and configuration of Ledger Live, the companion application for managing your Ledger device and your cryptocurrencies.

On this page, you’ll be prompted to select your Ledger device model (Ledger Nano S or Ledger Nano X). Be sure to choose the right device, as each one may have slightly different steps for setup.

Step 2: Download and Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the software required to manage your Ledger hardware wallet. To install it, follow these simple steps:

  1. Click on the appropriate download link for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux) on the ledger.com/start page.
  2. Once the file is downloaded, open it to begin the installation process.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
  4. After installation, open Ledger Live on your computer or device.

Tip: Only download Ledger Live from the official website to ensure that you are using the latest and secure version of the software.

Step 3: Connect Your Ledger Device

Now that Ledger Live is installed, it's time to connect your Ledger hardware wallet:

  1. Take your Ledger device and connect it to your computer or mobile device using the provided USB cable (or Bluetooth, for the Ledger Nano X).
  2. Power on the device. You should see the Ledger logo on the screen.
  3. Follow the prompts on your Ledger device to choose your language and set up the device for the first time.

Note: For the Ledger Nano X, you may also need to connect it via Bluetooth if using a mobile device.

Step 4: Set Up Your PIN Code

To secure your Ledger wallet, you will need to set up a PIN code. This PIN will be required every time you access your device. Here's how to set it up:

  1. On your Ledger device, select the option to set up a PIN code.
  2. Choose a 4-8 digit PIN. Make sure it’s secure, but something you can remember.
  3. Confirm your PIN by entering it again.

Tip: Avoid using easy-to-guess PIN codes like "1234" or "0000" to ensure your wallet is well protected.

Step 5: Write Down Your Recovery Seed

Your Ledger device will generate a recovery seed — a series of 24 words that are the key to restoring your wallet if your device is ever lost, stolen, or damaged. Follow these steps to securely record your recovery seed:

  1. Write down the 24 recovery words shown on your Ledger device.
  2. Store the recovery sheet in a secure place, such as a safe or lockbox. Never store it digitally or share it with anyone.

Warning: If anyone else has access to your recovery seed, they can access your cryptocurrency funds. Keep it safe and private!

Step 6: Verify Your Recovery Seed

To ensure you’ve written down your recovery seed correctly, Ledger will ask you to verify it. Here’s how to do it:

  1. The Ledger device will prompt you to select and enter words from your recovery seed in the correct order.
  2. Carefully select the words on your device’s screen to confirm that you've recorded them accurately.

Once you've completed the verification process, your Ledger device will be fully set up and ready for use.

Step 7: Install Apps for Cryptocurrencies

Now that your Ledger wallet is set up, you can install apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage. Ledger supports a wide variety of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and many others. To install cryptocurrency apps:

  1. In Ledger Live, go to the “Manager” tab.
  2. Select the apps you want to install for each cryptocurrency.
  3. Click “Install” to add the apps to your device.

Tip: Install only the apps for the cryptocurrencies you actively use to keep your device organized and efficient.

Step 8: Start Using Your Ledger Wallet

Congratulations! Your Ledger wallet is now set up. You can begin sending and receiving cryptocurrency securely. Here’s how to do it:

Important: Always double-check the recipient address and transaction details before confirming any transaction.