Follow our trusted, step-by-step setup instructions to secure your Ledger® hardware wallet and protect your digital assets.
Welcome to Ledger.com/Start® — your official resource to initialize and configure your Ledger hardware wallet. Whether you’re setting up your Ledger Nano X or Nano S Plus, this guide ensures your wallet is initialized correctly, so your crypto stays safe and under your full control. Ledger devices are trusted globally for their industry-leading security, designed to protect your private keys offline from online threats.
Begin by opening your browser and going to Ledger.com/Start. Always verify the URL before proceeding to avoid phishing scams. This page will direct you to download the official Ledger Live application for desktop or mobile.
Download the correct version of Ledger Live for your operating system — Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, or iOS. Ledger Live is the control center for your crypto portfolio, enabling you to manage accounts, send or receive funds, and install crypto apps directly on your device.
Unbox your Ledger Nano X or Nano S Plus and connect it to your computer using the provided USB cable. If you’re using the Nano X, you can also pair it via Bluetooth on your smartphone. The screen will display a welcome message as your device powers up.
When prompted, select “Set up as new device.” Use the device buttons to create a secure PIN code. This code acts as your first layer of protection, so choose something unique and memorable.
Your Ledger device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. Write these words down carefully on the recovery sheet provided. This phrase is your ultimate backup — it restores your wallet if your device is lost or damaged. Never share it, never photograph it, and never store it online.
Your device will ask you to confirm your recovery phrase by selecting each word in order. This ensures you’ve recorded it correctly. Once verified, your wallet initialization is complete — your private keys are now safely stored within your Ledger device.
Launch Ledger Live and open the Manager tab. Connect your device and install cryptocurrency apps such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Polygon. Each app allows your device to manage corresponding crypto accounts safely.
Within Ledger Live, go to Accounts → Add Account. Choose your desired cryptocurrency and follow the on-screen steps. Once added, you’ll be able to view your balance, track your portfolio, and send or receive funds — all from within Ledger Live.
Strengthen your protection by enabling advanced settings in Ledger Live. You can activate password lock, configure device verification, and ensure firmware is up to date. Regularly checking for updates helps keep your wallet protected from new security threats.
Your Ledger device is now fully initialized and ready to store and manage crypto assets securely. You control your private keys, meaning no one else — not even Ledger — can access your funds. With Ledger, you own your digital freedom.
Ledger’s mission is to make digital asset management accessible and secure for everyone. With state-of-the-art hardware encryption and an intuitive user experience, your funds stay safe from online vulnerabilities. Over 5 million users worldwide trust Ledger for its transparent technology and continuous security innovation.
Remember: Your recovery phrase is your wallet. Keep it private, keep it safe, and never share it with anyone. By following these steps, you’re not just setting up a wallet — you’re building a secure foundation for your financial future.