Ledger.com/Start® — Get Started with Ledger Live & Your Device

Welcome to Ledger.com/Start®. This page walks you through the official setup and login steps for Ledger Live and Ledger hardware wallets (Nano X, Nano S Plus, and Stax). Follow these instructions to keep your private keys offline, authenticate securely, and use Ledger Live with confidence.

About Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the desktop and mobile application that acts as the interface to your Ledger hardware wallet. It enables you to manage accounts, send and receive crypto, buy and sell via integrated partners, stake supported assets, and keep an eye on portfolio performance — all while your private keys remain inside the secure hardware device.

How to Set Up Ledger (Step-by-step)

Download Ledger Live: Only download from the official Ledger site at https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live. Choose the correct OS installer (Windows, macOS, Linux) or install the mobile app from the official app store.
Install and Launch: Install the app and open Ledger Live. Accept prompts and follow initial onboarding steps displayed on-screen.
Choose: New Device or Restore: When prompted, select “Set up as new device” if you purchased a brand new Ledger. If restoring an existing wallet, choose the restore option and enter your recovery phrase on the device when asked.
Connect Your Ledger: Connect your Ledger device via USB or pair via Bluetooth (Nano X). Unlock the device by entering your PIN directly on the hardware.
Write Down Your Recovery Phrase: Ledger will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. Write it down exactly in order on the provided recovery sheet. Store it offline in a safe place — never type it into a computer, email, cloud storage, or take a photo.
Install Apps & Add Accounts: Use Ledger Live’s Manager to install apps for specific blockchains (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). Then add accounts in the Accounts section to view and manage balances.
Verify Device Authenticity: Use the Ledger Live “Genuine Check” to confirm your device is authentic before transferring funds.

Logging into Ledger Live

Ledger Live doesn’t rely on a central password-only login. Instead, the primary authentication is your hardware device and PIN. For additional protection you can enable a local password lock and use OS-level security features on mobile (biometrics) and desktop (OS user accounts).

Login Summary

Open Ledger Live app.
Connect and unlock your Ledger hardware device (enter PIN on device).
Approve actions on the device screen — all transaction signing occurs on the hardware.
Optionally set a Ledger Live password for local app access.

Quick Tips

Never share your 24-word recovery phrase.
Always confirm addresses on the device screen.
Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated.

Security Best Practices

Ledger’s security model splits your sensitive material between the physical device and the user’s responsibility to store the recovery phrase. Follow these core practices to minimize risk:

Recovery Phrase Safety: Store the printed recovery phrase in multiple secure locations (e.g., safe or safety deposit box). Consider metal backups for long-term durability.
Genuine Checks: Run the device authenticity check in Ledger Live when you first connect a device.
Firmware & App Updates: Keep both Ledger Live and your device firmware up to date to benefit from the latest security enhancements.
Phishing Awareness: Always verify URLs and avoid downloading apps or updates from unofficial sources.

Recovering Access (If You Lose Your Device)

If your Ledger device is lost, damaged, or stolen, you can restore access using your 24-word recovery phrase on a new Ledger device or compatible recovery tool that you trust. This process reconstitutes your private keys — so preserving the recovery phrase is essential.

Features Available After You Start

Once set up and logged in, Ledger Live provides:

Portfolio Overview: Real-time tracking of holdings across accounts and currencies.
Buy / Sell Integration: Purchase crypto via partners directly in Ledger Live.
Swap & Bridge: Swap tokens and use bridge services where supported.
Staking: Stake supported assets to earn rewards while keeping keys secure.
Manager: Install blockchain-specific apps on your device.

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

Device Not Detected

Check cable/USB port, try a different computer, ensure Ledger Live is up to date and the device firmware is compatible.

PIN Errors

After three wrong PIN attempts the device will reset. Restore from your recovery phrase on a new device.

Contacting Support

For help, always use official Ledger support channels: Ledger Support Center. Do not trust unofficial guides requesting your recovery phrase or personal credentials.

Important: Ledger will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase. If prompted to reveal it, stop and contact official support immediately.

Summary & Final Recommendations

Ledger.com/Start® gives you the tools to securely initialize Ledger Live and protect your crypto assets. Use the official app, follow the setup steps, store your recovery phrase offline, and verify every transaction on your device. With these habits you retain true self-custody while enjoying Ledger Live’s powerful features.

Disclaimer: This guide is informational and not financial advice. Cryptocurrency carries risk. Always verify software and firmware from official Ledger sources and secure your recovery phrase in trusted, offline storage.