Ledger.com/Start Setup — Beginner’s Guide 🌟

1. Quick overview

This guide helps you complete the official Ledger.com/Start setup flow: download Ledger Live, initialize your Ledger hardware, create & secure your recovery phrase, add accounts for altcoins, and connect to dApps and DeFi. Follow official instructions first, then use this guide for practical tips and safety checks.

Official Start page: ledger.com/start

2. What to prepare

• Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S / Nano X / Stax / Flex)
• Computer or smartphone, USB cable (or Bluetooth for Nano X)
• Quiet private space + pen and the recovery sheet (no photos!)
• Strong PIN (memorize it; do not share)

3. Download & verify Ledger Live

1. Visit ledger.com/start, click Download Ledger Live.
2. Choose the correct installer for your OS and download it.
3. Verify the installer signature (Ledger publishes signatures you can check before installing).
4. Install and launch Ledger Live.

Download & install instructions: Ledger support — Download and install Ledger Live

4. Initialize your Ledger device

1. Turn on the device and choose Set up as new device.
2. Create a secure PIN on the device using its buttons.
3. Write down the 24-word recovery phrase exactly in order on the recovery sheet. Do not take photos or save it digitally.
4. Confirm a few words when prompted to ensure accuracy.

How to create a new recovery phrase: Ledger support — Create a new recovery phrase

5. Add accounts & blockchain apps

1. In Ledger Live, open Manager, connect & unlock your device.
2. Install the specific blockchain apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) on the device.
3. Go to Accounts → Add account and choose the asset to sync addresses from your device.

Tip: uninstalling an app from your device does not remove your funds—your seed controls access.

6. Connect to dApps & DeFi

Use browser wallets like MetaMask (or WalletConnect) that support hardware wallets. Choose “Connect hardware wallet”, pick Ledger, open the right blockchain app on your device, and approve transactions directly on the device.

Connecting Ledger to MetaMask and other wallets: Ledger support — Connect to MetaMask

7. Recovery phrase safety (do this)

• Never store seed phrase digitally (no photos, no cloud).
• Consider a steel backup (fireproof) or multiple offline copies in separate secure locations.
• If you lose the phrase and the device, funds are unrecoverable.

8. Quick troubleshooting checklist

• Device not detected? Try another USB cable/port and ensure it’s unlocked.
• Always verify Ledger Live and firmware updates from official sources.
• For lost/stolen device: restore using recovery phrase on a new Ledger or compatible device.

FAQs