Get Started with Ledger – Official Ledger.com/Start Hub

Your friendly, step-by-step guide to setup, secure and start using your Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S / Nano S Plus / Nano X).

Introduction — Why Ledger?

Ledger hardware wallets let you hold your private keys offline in a secure, tamper-resistant device so you can safely manage crypto, tokens and NFTs without exposing keys to the internet. Using Ledger with the companion desktop or mobile app (Ledger Live / Ledger Wallet) gives you an easy interface to check balances, install apps, and sign transactions while keeping the keys safe on-device. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

What this guide covers

Before you unbox — quick checklist

Essentials

Safety tip: There have been targeted fake apps and malware campaigns that try to trick users into entering their seed phrases. Always download Ledger Live only from the official site and verify signatures when possible. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Unboxing & Step-by-step setup

Step 1 — Power on and choose “Set up as new device”

When you power the device for the first time follow the on-screen prompts. Choose a secure PIN (do not reuse PINs from other devices) and never tell the PIN to anyone. Ledger's official setup walkthrough is designed to be simple and deliberate to avoid mistakes. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Step 2 — Write down your recovery phrase (24 words)

The device generates a 24-word recovery phrase (sometimes 12 words for older/alternative models). Write this on the recovery card provided, store it somewhere safe and offline. This phrase is the ONLY way to recover your funds if the device is lost or damaged.

Step 3 — Confirm recovery phrase on the device

Ledger's device will ask you to confirm several words from the phrase on-screen — this verifies you recorded it correctly.

Step 4 — Update firmware if prompted

The device may request a firmware update during initial setup — follow Ledger Live to update. Firmware updates patch security improvements and new device features. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

Install & use Ledger Live (desktop & mobile)

Ledger Live is the official companion app for Ledger devices. Use it to install apps on your device, add accounts (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.), check balances, send/receive crypto, stake, and manage NFTs. Always download Ledger Live from the official download page and verify the installer signature if you can. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

How to download

Choose your platform (Windows / macOS / Linux / iOS / Android) and download Ledger Live from the official Ledger site. After install, open Ledger Live, click Get started, choose your device and follow the on-screen onboarding. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7} 

# Quick overview
1. Download Ledger Live → Install
2. Plug in your Ledger device → Unlock with PIN
3. Follow Ledger Live: set up device or restore
4. Install currency apps as needed (Bitcoin, Ethereum, ...)

Ledger Live verification

For extra safety Ledger provides a signature verification file for Ledger Live installers. If you know how to check SHA/PGP signatures, verify the binary you downloaded matches the signature on Ledger’s site. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

Verify Ledger Live installer

Security best practices — simple, effective habits

Never share your recovery phrase or type it into a website

Legitimate tools never ask for your seed phrase. If any app, site, chat, or attacker asks — it’s a scam. Store the 24 words offline and consider a fireproof or metal backup.

Buy only from official channels

Buying from ledger.com or authorized resellers reduces risk of receiving a tampered device. If you receive a device with unusual packaging or pre-filled recovery words, contact Ledger support and do not use it. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

Keep software updated

Keep your host machine and Ledger Live updated, and check Ledger’s support pages for official advisories. Ledger’s support hub has device-specific setup pages and troubleshooting. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}

Recognize scams

Recent reports show malware and fake apps targeting users (notably macOS scams distributing counterfeit Ledger Live apps). Only download apps from official sources and be extra careful with unexpected emails or downloads. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}

Common questions & quick answers

Can I restore my wallet on another Ledger or compatible wallet?

Yes — the 24-word recovery phrase follows BIP39/BIP44 standards and can restore on compliant wallets. Only restore on trustworthy devices or official Ledger devices.

Is Bluetooth safe on Ledger Nano X?

Bluetooth is convenient for mobile use, but for maximum security many users prefer a wired connection when possible. Ledger’s secure element and firmware are designed with Bluetooth in mind, but understand the trade-offs and choose what fits your threat model. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}

What if I lose my Ledger device?

If you have your recovery phrase you can restore on a new Ledger or compatible wallet. If not — funds are irretrievable. This is why offline backup of the recovery phrase is critical.

Wrapping up — first transactions and a sensible checklist

First transaction checklist

Final words

A hardware wallet like Ledger significantly reduces risk compared to exchange custody or hot wallets. The big wins are: private keys stay offline, you control the recovery phrase, and Ledger Live makes routine tasks easy. Learning and applying simple security habits (never sharing your phrase, buying from official sources, verifying downloads) protects you from most common attacks. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}

Ready to start? Go to Ledger Start