Welcome to the Ledger Getting Started Hub
You’ve arrived at the official gateway for setting up your Ledger device. The Getting Started Hub on ledger.com/start offers the complete, trusted path to initialize your hardware wallet, secure your crypto assets, and begin interacting with the blockchain safely.
In this guide, we walk you through every step — from unboxing your device to sending your first transaction. Follow it closely, always verify critical actions on your device, and stay alert for phishing attempts.
Step 1: Unboxing & Initial Checks
Contents You Should Receive
Inside your Ledger package, you should find:
- Your Ledger hardware device (e.g. Nano X, Nano S Plus, etc.)
- A USB / USB‑C cable
- Recovery phrase cards (to record your 24‑word seed)
- Quick start guide or leaflet
Security Check Before Use
Prior to powering on the device, inspect the box carefully. Look for:
- Seals or shrink wraps in perfect condition
- Clear, consistent branding and text (no typos or misalignment)
- Proper contents matching the list above
If anything seems off — e.g. broken seals, missing parts, damaged packaging — do not proceed. Contact Ledger support immediately. Never use a device that might have been tampered with.
Step 2: Open ledger.com/start
Your Safe Starting Point
On your computer or mobile browser, go to https://www.ledger.com/start. This is the only official onboarding hub and should be your starting point for all Ledger setup actions.
⚠️ Security Tip: Bookmark this page and avoid accessing it via suspicious links. Phishing sites often imitate Ledger’s look and feel to trick users.
From this hub, you will:
- Download the Ledger Live application
- Access tailored setup instructions for your specific device
- Receive notices about firmware updates and security alerts
- Find tutorials and learning resources
Step 3: Download & Install Ledger Live
Choosing the Right Version
On the Getting Started Hub, select the version of Ledger Live compatible with your system (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android). Always download from the official hub — never from third‑party portals.
Installation & Opening
Install the app following standard OS prompts. Open Ledger Live once installation completes. Ledger Live acts as the interface for managing accounts, but does **not** store your private keys — those remain securely on your hardware device.
Step 4: Initialize Your Device
Getting Started with Setup
With your device connected (via USB or Bluetooth, depending on model), Ledger Live will guide you through initialization:
- Select “Set up as new device.”
- Create a PIN (4 to 8 digits). Choose something memorable but not obvious.
- Write your 24‑word recovery phrase **in order** on the supplied cards.
- Confirm your recovery phrase when prompted (Ledger Live will ask you to select words in correct order).
Critical Reminder
Under **no circumstances** should you ever enter your 24‑word phrase into a computer, phone, or website. Ledger staff or any service will **never** ask for it. This phrase is your ultimate backup — losing it can mean irreversible loss of assets.
Step 5: Install Crypto Apps & Add Accounts
Install Coin Apps
In Ledger Live, go to the “Manager” tab and install the apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) you plan to use. These apps are the on‑device modules needed for those chains.
Add Accounts
Switch to the “Accounts” section and add accounts for each cryptocurrency you want to manage. Ledger Live will fetch current balances, transaction history, and network info.
Transaction Safety
For every operation — send, receive, swap — your Ledger device screen will show transaction details. Always read and verify them before approving. This step prevents malware or fake transaction traps from executing unintended actions.
Step 6: Keep Firmware & Software Up to Date
Why Updates Matter
Ledger frequently releases firmware and software updates to fix vulnerabilities, add support for new coins, and improve performance. Staying updated ensures your wallet remains resilient and feature‑rich.
How to Update
- In Ledger Live, under “Manager,” check for device firmware updates and apply them when available.
- Update Ledger Live itself via in‑app prompts or manual download from the Getting Started Hub.
- Never skip critical updates, even if your device seems to work fine.
Security Best Practices & Tips
Beyond the basic setup, maintaining rigorous security habits is vital. Below are recommendations to strengthen your defenses:
- Always confirm transaction details *on the hardware device*, not just in the app.
- Never share your recovery phrase with anyone — not support, not friends.
- Store your recovery phrase offline in at least two secure locations (e.g. safe deposit box, home safe).
- Consider using a metal recovery seed backup for increased fire / water resistance.
- Avoid clicking on links from unsolicited emails, social media, or ads claiming to be Ledger.
- Always verify you are on https://www.ledger.com/start when accessing the hub.
- Periodically review your accounts for unexpected activity.
FAQs — Quick Answers to Common Questions
Is ledger.com/start safe?
Yes — the Getting Started Hub is the official Ledger domain for onboarding. Always access it directly and never via suspicious links.
Can I restore my wallet on a different device?
Yes — with your 24‑word recovery phrase, you can restore your wallet on any compatible hardware wallet. Without it, access is permanently lost.
What if I forget my PIN?
You can reset the Ledger device, then restore using your recovery phrase. If your recovery phrase is lost or forgotten, funds are irretrievable.
Does Ledger Live store my private keys?
No — all private keys remain securely within your hardware device. Ledger Live only acts as a management interface.
How do I know the device is genuine?
During setup, your Ledger device verifies its own authenticity via built‑in checks. Also, ensure packaging is sealed properly and avoid buying from unverified third parties.
After Setup: Explore What’s Next
Once your Ledger is set up, here are actions you can take to make the most of it:
- Connect to Web3 apps and dApps via WalletConnect or MetaMask integration.
- Stake cryptocurrencies directly through Ledger Live (for supported assets).
- Swap or exchange supported tokens securely in Ledger Live.
- Manage, view, or interact with NFTs.
- Learn more through Ledger’s help articles, tutorials, and community forums.
The Getting Started Hub also links to detailed guides, how‑to videos, and advanced topics to help you grow confidently with Ledger.