Your step-by-step tutorial to securely set up your Ledger hardware wallet
Welcome to our comprehensive guide for Ledger.com/start. If you've recently purchased a Ledger hardware wallet, you're taking an important step toward securing your cryptocurrency assets. Ledger devices provide industry-leading security by keeping your private keys offline, away from potential online threats.
The Ledger.com/start process is designed to be straightforward, but proper setup is crucial for the security of your digital assets. This guide will walk you through every step of the initialization process, from unboxing your device to making your first secure transaction.
Pro Tip: Before beginning your Ledger.com/start setup, ensure you have a stable internet connection and at least 30 minutes of uninterrupted time to complete the process properly.
Before visiting Ledger.com/start, make sure you have the following items ready:
Security Warning: Never purchase a Ledger device from third-party marketplaces. Always buy directly from Ledger.com to avoid tampered devices.
Begin by connecting your Ledger hardware wallet to your computer using the provided USB cable. For Nano X users, you can also connect via Bluetooth if using the mobile app.
When you first connect your device, it should display "Welcome" or show instructions to press both buttons to begin. Follow the on-device prompts to start the setup process.
Open your web browser and navigate to Ledger.com/start. This is the official setup portal that will guide you through the initialization process.
The website will automatically detect your device model and provide specific instructions tailored to your hardware. Follow the on-screen directions to proceed.
Your Ledger device will ask whether you want to "Configure as new device" or "Restore from recovery phrase." Since this is a new setup, select "Configure as new device."
Choose a PIN code for your device. This PIN will be required every time you connect your Ledger. Make sure it's something you'll remember but difficult for others to guess.
This is the most critical security step in the Ledger.com/start process. Your device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase.
Write down each word in the exact order shown on your device's screen using the provided recovery sheet. Do not store this phrase digitally or take photos of it.
Critical Security Note: Your recovery phrase is the master key to your cryptocurrency. Anyone with access to these words can access your funds. Store them securely offline and never share them with anyone.
After writing down your recovery phrase, your Ledger device will ask you to confirm it by selecting words in the correct order. This ensures you've properly recorded your recovery phrase.
Complete this verification process carefully. If you make a mistake, the device will prompt you to start over until you correctly confirm the entire phrase.
Once your device is set up, the Ledger.com/start portal will guide you to download and install Ledger Live - the companion application for managing your crypto assets.
Download Ledger Live for your operating system (Windows, Mac, or Linux) or mobile device (iOS or Android). Follow the installation instructions provided.
Open Ledger Live and connect your device. Navigate to the "Manager" section in Ledger Live to install applications for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage.
For example, if you want to store Bitcoin, install the Bitcoin app. For Ethereum and ERC-20 tokens, install the Ethereum app. Your device has limited storage, so you may need to manage which apps are installed.
In Ledger Live, go to the "Accounts" section and click "Add account." Select the cryptocurrency you want to add and follow the prompts.
Your Ledger device will need to be connected and unlocked during this process. Once completed, you'll see your new account in Ledger Live with a receiving address.
Completing the Ledger.com/start process is just the beginning. To ensure ongoing security for your cryptocurrency, follow these best practices:
Security Enhancement: For maximum security, consider storing your recovery phrase in a fireproof safe or safety deposit box. You might also split it between multiple secure locations.
If your computer doesn't recognize your Ledger device during the Ledger.com/start process:
If Ledger Live can't connect to your device:
If you forget your PIN after completing Ledger.com/start:
Congratulations! You've successfully completed the Ledger.com/start setup process. Your hardware wallet is now ready to securely store your cryptocurrency. Here's what to do next: