ledger.com/start — Quick Start & Security Guide
A compact, practical walkthrough for setting up your Ledger hardware wallet with strong security habits and simple checks.
Introduction
This guide condenses the most important steps to get your Ledger device running and to protect your crypto assets. It focuses on reliable, repeatable actions: secure initialization, safe backup practices, how to connect to apps, and precautions to avoid common scams. Follow each heading as a short task list you can complete in order.
Before you begin — essentials
- Official Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or newer) — always buy from an authorized source.
- A modern computer or smartphone and a USB cable; keep devices updated.
- A private surface and a physical notebook or recovery card to record words — never store the phrase digitally.
Quick tip: Unbox your device in a distraction-free space. If packaging looks tampered with, contact the vendor before powering on.
Step-by-step setup
- Get Ledger Live: Download Ledger Live from the official site and install only the official app.
- Initialize device: Power on and choose Create a new wallet. Pick a unique PIN you’ll remember but others won’t guess.
- Record recovery phrase: The device generates 24 words. Write them exactly in order on paper — double-check spelling and sequence.
- Verify and finish: Confirm a few words when prompted. Then install the coin apps you need inside Ledger Live to create accounts.
- Test with a small transfer: Send a small amount to a newly created receive address to confirm everything works end-to-end.