Official Setup Guide

Secure & start your
Ledger hardware wallet

Download Ledger Live, install apps, and manage crypto with bank-grade security. Follow the official ledger.com/start process — simple, trusted by millions.

Get Ledger Live → Setup guide
Ledger Nano X hardware wallet device

Why start with Ledger?

The most secure way to buy, manage, and grow your crypto assets.
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Secure Element Chip

Military-grade certification (CC EAL6+) protects your private keys offline.

Learn more →
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Ledger Live App

All-in-one companion: buy, sell, stake, swap, and manage NFT collections.

Explore Ledger Live →
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500+ Coins supported

Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, XRP, Cardano, and thousands of tokens.

Full list →

How to set up your Ledger via Ledger.com/start

Follow these 4 simple steps to initialize your hardware wallet and install Ledger Live.
1

Download & install Ledger Live

Go to ledger.com/start on your computer or smartphone. Choose the official version for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android.

2

Initialize your Ledger hardware

Connect your Ledger device. Open Ledger Live → "Initialize" → choose a PIN code. Write down your 24-word recovery phrase.

3

Install blockchain apps

In Ledger Live, go to "Manager" tab → search for Bitcoin, Ethereum, or any asset. Install the corresponding app.

4

Add accounts & receive crypto

Navigate to "Portfolio" → "Add account" → choose the asset. Your public address will appear.

Ledger ecosystem: Beyond a simple wallet

Deep dive into security, Ledger Live features, and advanced protection.
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Web3 & DeFi access

Securely connect to MetaMask, Phantom, or Rainbow via WalletConnect.

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Recovery phrase best practices

Never enter your 24 words online or take a photo. Keep it in a fireproof safe.

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Staking & passive rewards

Earn up to 15% APY on assets like ETH, SOL, ADA, DOT directly from Ledger Live.

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Blind signing & Clear Signing

Ledger pioneered "Clear Signing" to verify transaction details on device screen.

Security-first principles

Ledger hardware wallets use a proprietary OS (BOLOS) that isolates each cryptocurrency app. Over 6 million users trust Ledger to safeguard $150B+ in assets. The setup process at ledger.com/start ensures that your seed is generated offline — the only way to maintain true self-custody.

Every transaction requires a physical button press on the device, meaning even if your computer is infected with malware, your funds stay safe. Ledger Live offers real-time market data, portfolio performance, and built-in fiat on-ramps.

⚠️ Troubleshooting & common fixes

  • ✔ Device not detected? – Use original USB cable, try different port.
  • ✔ Forgot PIN? – After 3 wrong attempts, device resets — restore using 24-word recovery phrase.
  • ✔ Ledger Live stuck? – Clear cache (Settings > Help > Clear cache).

Frequently asked questions

🔹 Is my recovery phrase safe?

Yes. The device generates the phrase offline. Never share it with anyone.

🔹 Can I use Ledger Live without a hardware wallet?

You can install Ledger Live and track portfolio, but sending/receiving requires a physical Ledger device.

🔹 Which devices are compatible?

Ledger Nano X, Nano S, Nano S Plus, and Stax.