Ledger.com/Start — Official Setup Guide

Welcome to the Ledger start page. This concise guide walks you through initializing your Ledger device (Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Nano X), installing Ledger Live, securing your PIN and recovery phrase, and performing your first safe transaction.

Before you begin

Quick setup steps

  1. Download Ledger Live — install the official Ledger Live app for your OS or use the web setup flow.
  2. Power up and connect — plug in your Ledger device (or pair via Bluetooth for Nano X) and follow on-device prompts.
  3. Install firmware — if prompted, install the official firmware through Ledger Live to ensure latest security fixes.
  4. Create a PIN — choose a secure PIN on the device. Never store PINs digitally in plain text.
  5. Back up your recovery phrase — write down the 24-word recovery phrase exactly in order and store it offline. This is the only way to restore your wallet.
  6. Install apps & add accounts — use Ledger Live to install coin-specific apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) and add accounts for managing assets.
  7. Verify addresses on-device — always confirm receive addresses on the device screen before sending funds from exchanges or other wallets.
Fast tip: Ledger Live connects to your device but your private keys never leave the Ledger hardware. Treat your 24-word recovery phrase as the most sensitive item you own.

Security best practices

Troubleshooting

Getting started with crypto

Once your device is set up and accounts are added in Ledger Live, transfer funds from exchanges to addresses shown in Ledger Live — always verify the address on your Ledger device before finalizing any transfer.

FAQs

What is the recovery phrase?
The 24-word recovery phrase is a human-readable backup of your private keys. Anyone with this phrase can access your funds — keep it secret and offline.
Can Ledger Live be used without the device?
No — Ledger Live requires the Ledger device to sign transactions. The app alone cannot move funds without the hardware signature.
What if I lose both device and recovery phrase?
Unfortunately, if both are lost, funds cannot be recovered. That’s why secure backup of the recovery phrase is essential.