Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started — Ledger

Getting started with your Ledger hardware wallet is the first step toward securing your cryptocurrency holdings safely and confidently. Ledger devices, including the Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X, provide industry-leading security for your crypto assets. This guide will walk you through every step—from unboxing your device to managing your first crypto transaction.

1. Unboxing Your Ledger Device

When you receive your Ledger wallet, it comes securely packaged to ensure it has not been tampered with during shipping. Inside the box, you will typically find:

  • Your Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S Plus or Nano X)

  • A USB cable (for connecting to your computer)

  • Recovery sheets for recording your recovery phrase

  • Instruction manuals and safety cards

Important: Do not use your Ledger if the packaging is damaged or appears tampered with. Always start with a sealed, authentic Ledger device to ensure maximum security.

2. Installing Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official companion app for your hardware wallet. It allows you to:

  • Set up your Ledger device

  • Install apps for different cryptocurrencies

  • Send and receive crypto safely

  • Monitor your portfolio in real-time

Steps to Install Ledger Live:

  1. Go to Ledger.com/Start® on your computer or mobile device.

  2. Select your device type (Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X).

  3. Download Ledger Live for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android).

  4. Install the application by following the on-screen instructions.

  5. Open Ledger Live and proceed to set up your device.

Tip: Always download Ledger Live directly from the official Ledger website to avoid phishing or fraudulent software.

3. Initial Device Setup

Step 1: Power On Your Ledger

  • Nano S Plus: Connect your device to your computer using the USB cable. Press the button beside the USB port to power it on.

  • Nano X: Press the button beside the USB port to power it on. If it doesn’t turn on, ensure it is charged using the USB cable.

Step 2: Choose Your PIN Code

Your Ledger device will prompt you to choose a 4 to 8-digit PIN code. This PIN secures your device in case it is lost or stolen.

  • Use a unique code you can remember.

  • Avoid simple sequences like 1234 or 0000.

Step 3: Record Your Recovery Phrase

The device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase, displayed one word at a time. This phrase is the backup of your entire wallet.

  • Write down each word exactly in order on the provided recovery sheet.

  • Store it in a safe, offline location.

  • Never store your recovery phrase digitally or share it with anyone.

Warning: Anyone with access to your recovery phrase can access your funds.

4. Connecting Ledger Live to Your Device

Once your device is set up, connect it to Ledger Live:

  1. Open Ledger Live and select “Get Started”.

  2. Choose “Initialize as new device” (if this is your first setup).

  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to verify your PIN and recovery phrase.

  4. Ledger Live will check for firmware updates and prompt you to install the latest version if needed.
    Keeping firmware up to date ensures you have the latest security enhancements.

5. Installing Cryptocurrency Apps

Ledger devices support hundreds of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana. Each currency requires a dedicated app installed on the device.

How to Install Apps:

  1. Open Ledger Live and navigate to the “Manager” section.

  2. Connect and unlock your Ledger device.

  3. Browse the list of supported coins and click “Install” for the cryptocurrencies you plan to use.

  4. Once installed, the apps appear on your device and are ready for transactions.

Note: Your Ledger can only hold a limited number of apps at once, depending on device storage. You can uninstall and reinstall apps without affecting your funds.

6. Adding Accounts in Ledger Live

After installing the necessary apps, you need to add accounts for each cryptocurrency:

  1. In Ledger Live, go to Accounts → Add Account.

  2. Select the cryptocurrency you want to add.

  3. Connect your Ledger device and open the corresponding app.

  4. Ledger Live will synchronize your account and display your balance.

You can now view your portfolio, monitor balances, and track transactions securely.

7. Receiving Cryptocurrency

To receive crypto on your Ledger wallet:

  1. Open Ledger Live and navigate to Accounts → Receive.

  2. Select the account and cryptocurrency.

  3. Connect and unlock your Ledger device, then open the corresponding app.

  4. Verify the address on both your computer and the Ledger device screen.

  5. Share this address with the sender. Only send crypto to the verified address.

Safety Tip: Always double-check the address on the Ledger device screen. Malware can attempt to change it on your computer display.

8. Sending Cryptocurrency

To send crypto from your Ledger wallet:

  1. Go to Accounts → Send in Ledger Live.

  2. Enter the recipient’s address and the amount.

  3. Connect your Ledger device and open the app for the cryptocurrency you want to send.

  4. Confirm the transaction details on the Ledger device.

  5. Approve the transaction. Ledger Live will broadcast it to the blockchain.

Reminder: Transactions cannot be reversed. Always verify the address and amount before confirming.

9. Staking and Additional Features

Ledger Live also allows you to stake supported cryptocurrencies, earning rewards securely while keeping your funds in your hardware wallet.

  • Navigate to Accounts → Staking to check available options.

  • Select your preferred cryptocurrency and follow the instructions to start staking.

Ledger Live also provides portfolio analytics, real-time market data, and news updates, helping you stay informed about your investments.

10. Security Best Practices

  1. Keep your recovery phrase offline: Never store it digitally.

  2. Update firmware regularly: Ledger firmware updates improve security.

  3. Avoid phishing attempts: Only use the official Ledger website and Ledger Live app.

  4. Use a strong PIN code: Ensure it’s unique and not easily guessable.

  5. Verify addresses on the device: Always confirm transaction details on your Ledger screen.

11. Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Device not recognized: Ensure your USB cable is connected properly and try a different port.

  • Ledger Live not syncing: Restart the app and device, and ensure firmware is up to date.

  • Forgot PIN: You will need your 24-word recovery phrase to reset the device.

  • App installation errors: Check available device storage and update Ledger Live.

Ledger’s support page (Ledger Support) offers extensive guides and troubleshooting resources.

12. Next Steps

Once you are comfortable with receiving, sending, and staking cryptocurrencies, you can explore:

  • Connecting to DeFi platforms securely using Ledger Live.

  • Using Ledger with supported third-party wallets like MetaMask.

  • Diversifying your crypto portfolio while keeping assets offline and protected.

Conclusion

Starting with Ledger is simple, but following security best practices is crucial. By setting up your Ledger device correctly, installing Ledger Live, and safeguarding your recovery phrase, you ensure that your cryptocurrency remains safe from hacks and unauthorized access.

Ledger devices combine convenience and robust security, making them a top choice for both new and experienced crypto users. Begin today by visiting Ledger.com/Start® and take control of your crypto security with confidence.

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