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Ledger Start Guide: Secure Your Crypto with Ease

Follow this step-by-step guide to set up your Ledger wallet and manage your cryptocurrency safely, even if you’re new to crypto.

Why Ledger?

A Ledger hardware wallet keeps your cryptocurrency private keys offline, safe from hackers and phishing attacks. Unlike software wallets, Ledger gives you full control over your digital assets, providing peace of mind and long-term security.

Think of it as a digital vault: even if your computer is compromised, your crypto remains untouchable.

Step 1: Unbox Your Ledger Device

What’s Inside?

  • Ledger device (Nano S Plus / Nano X)
  • USB connection cable
  • Recovery sheets for 24-word seed phrase
  • Quick start guide

Pro Tip

Always verify the box is sealed. Ledger devices are shipped securely, and tampering can indicate a security risk.

Step 2: Set Up Your Device

  1. Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the USB cable.
  2. Power it on. The device will greet you with “Welcome.”
  3. Select your language and choose “Set up as new device.”
  4. Write down the 24-word recovery phrase in order on the provided sheets. This is the only way to restore your wallet.
  5. Confirm the recovery phrase by selecting words in the correct order.
  6. Set your PIN code (4–8 digits) to protect access to your device.

Your Ledger device is now initialized and ready to connect with Ledger Live.

Step 3: Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is your companion app to manage all crypto assets on your Ledger device. Here’s how to get started:

  • Download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website.
  • Install and open the app, then select “Get Started.”
  • Choose your Ledger device model and connect via USB or Bluetooth.
  • Ledger Live will verify your device authenticity.
  • You’re now ready to manage accounts and install apps for various cryptocurrencies.

Step 4: Add Accounts & Manage Assets

Ledger Live supports multiple crypto accounts. To add them:

  1. Open Ledger Live and navigate to the “Manager” tab.
  2. Install apps for cryptocurrencies you want to hold (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
  3. Go to the “Accounts” tab and click “Add Account.”
  4. Select the crypto type and follow on-screen instructions.
  5. Once added, you can send, receive, and monitor balances securely.

Step 5: Security Best Practices

  • Never share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone.
  • Always download Ledger Live from the official site.
  • Keep your firmware updated for maximum security.
  • Store recovery sheets in a safe, offline location.
  • Beware of phishing scams and suspicious emails.

Quick Troubleshooting

Device not detected? Check USB connections, try a different port, and restart Ledger Live.

Lost recovery phrase? Unfortunately, your crypto cannot be recovered. Always back up offline securely.

Running out of app storage? Uninstall unused apps temporarily; your assets remain safe.

Conclusion: Take Control of Your Crypto

Using ledger.com/start to set up your Ledger wallet is the first step in securing your cryptocurrency. With a strong PIN, offline recovery phrase, and Ledger Live integration, you’re equipped to safely manage, track, and grow your digital assets.