Ledger Live Setup

Ledger.com/Start – Complete Ledger Wallet Setup Guide

Welcome to Ledger.com/start, the official guide to securely set up your Ledger hardware wallet. Ledger devices store private keys offline in a secure element, giving you full control over your crypto while protecting you from online threats. This guide will walk you through each step—from unboxing to sending, receiving, staking, and swapping cryptocurrencies—ensuring a safe and seamless setup.

1. Unboxing Your Ledger Device

Check the packaging for any signs of tampering. Power on your Ledger device and follow the on-screen instructions. You will choose to set up a new wallet or restore an existing one. Always use the physical device and avoid third-party apps or links to prevent phishing attacks.

2. Access Ledger.com/Start

Open your browser and visit Ledger.com/start. This is the official source to download Ledger Live, the companion app for your device. Ledger Live allows you to manage your portfolio, send and receive crypto, stake tokens, swap coins, and track your holdings securely. Always ensure you are on the official Ledger domain.

3. Installing Ledger Live

Download Ledger Live for your operating system. Open the app and select “Initialize new device” if this is your first setup. Ledger Live will guide you through firmware installation and creating a secure PIN. Pick a PIN that is secure yet easy for you to remember. This PIN protects your Ledger device from unauthorized access.

4. Securing Your 24-Word Recovery Phrase

Your Ledger device generates a 24-word recovery phrase during setup. This phrase is crucial for restoring your wallet if your device is lost or damaged. Write it down carefully on the provided sheet and store it offline in a secure location. Never take photos, save digitally, or share it. Ledger will never ask for this phrase.

5. Installing Cryptocurrency Apps

Each cryptocurrency requires a separate app on your Ledger device. In Ledger Live, go to “My Ledger” and install apps for supported coins such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and more. Apps allow your device to securely sign transactions while keeping your private keys offline.

6. Adding Accounts

After installing apps, create corresponding accounts in Ledger Live. Each account generates unique receiving addresses. Always verify these addresses on your device before sending or receiving crypto to prevent malware attacks.

7. Receiving and Sending Crypto

With accounts added, you can safely receive cryptocurrency. Ledger Live provides verified addresses to prevent fraud. Sending crypto is equally secure; transactions are signed on-device, ensuring private keys never leave the Ledger hardware.

8. Staking, Swapping, and Portfolio Monitoring

Ledger Live allows staking supported coins like Ethereum, DOT, and ATOM. You can swap tokens directly within the app and monitor your portfolio in real-time. All operations are verified on-device, keeping your private keys safe while giving you control and flexibility.

9. Security Best Practices

  • Never share your 24-word recovery phrase.
  • Only download Ledger Live from Ledger.com/start.
  • Always verify addresses on your device before sending or receiving crypto.
  • Keep Ledger Live and your device firmware updated.
  • Store your recovery phrase offline and in a secure location.