Authentic Downloads
Get Ledger Live straight from the source. Counterfeit installers are a top vector for wallet theft; manual URL entry helps you avoid them.
Why begin at Ledger.com/Start®?
Security is a routine, not a checkbox. Beginning here ensures authentic software, the right device checks, and a step‑by‑step flow designed to help you avoid common pitfalls.
All‑in‑One Management
Ledger Live centralizes portfolio tracking, app installs, account labeling, and sending/receiving across supported networks — desktop and mobile.
Clear Guidance
Plain‑English instructions, on‑device confirmations, and genuine‑checks guide you from first plug‑in to confident daily use.
Privacy by Default
Keep your keys on your device, not on a server. Use fresh addresses, label accounts, and share only what you choose.
Resilient by Design
On‑device approval, PIN throttling, optional passphrase, and per‑network apps combine to create layered defense.
Portable Options
Choose the model that fits your lifestyle — Nano S Plus for USB simplicity, Nano X for Bluetooth mobility (with Ledger Live mobile).
💡
Tip: Type URLs yourself. Phishing pages often look identical to the real thing but deliver malicious downloads. Manual entry beats clicking ads.
Getting Started — Step‑by‑Step
Move calmly. Ten deliberate minutes now can protect your funds for years.
1) Inspect the box & device. Clean packaging, intact seals, and a pristine cable are reassuring signals. If anything appears off, pause and contact Ledger Support.
2) Connect directly to your computer. Use the shipped cable and avoid USB hubs during setup to minimize glitches and power issues.
3) Visit Ledger.com/Start. Enter it manually. Download Ledger Live only from this page to avoid counterfeit installers.
4) Install & open Ledger Live. Follow the genuine‑check, initialize the device, and set a strong PIN.
5) Choose your model. Select Nano S Plus, Nano X, or other supported devices. If prompted, approve a firmware update on‑device.
6) Generate the recovery phrase. Write the 24 words clearly on paper or a metal backup. Do not photograph or store them digitally — ever.
7) Confirm on‑device. Your Ledger’s screen is the truth. Verify addresses and transaction details there before approving.
8) Install apps by network. For Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc., install the respective app on your Ledger, then add those accounts in Ledger Live.
9) Label accounts & contacts. Clear labels reduce mistakes and help with reconciliation and taxes later.
10) Perform a tiny test transaction. Send a small amount first when interacting with a new address or network.
11) Secure the recovery phrase. Store it offline, consider separate locations, and use a fire‑/water‑resistant backup for resilience.
12) Review safety habits. See the checklist below and make them part of your routine.
Ready for next‑level confidence?
Open Security Primer
Open the Security Primer to understand the layers that protect you.
Security in Plain English
Great security is layered. Here are the layers that protect your keys and transactions.
Secure Element & On‑Device Approval
Your private keys stay inside a secure chip and never touch the internet. When you sign, the transaction details appear on your Ledger and you approve them physically. The signature is produced inside the chip; the keys never leave.
Genuine‑Check & Firmware Integrity
Ledger Live verifies device authenticity and firmware integrity during setup. Updates are only applied with your on‑device confirmation, preserving the chain of trust.
Recovery Phrase = Master Key
If your device is lost or damaged, the 24‑word phrase restores access on a new Ledger. Keep it private, offline, and legible — it’s the only way back into your wallet.
Defense‑in‑Depth
PIN attempt throttling, optional passphrase for hidden wallets, address verification on‑device, and per‑network apps create multiple lines of defense against both remote and physical attacks.
| Capability | Ledger Hardware Wallet | Exchange Account |
|---|---|---|
| Private Key Ownership | You hold the keys (self‑custody) | Platform holds the keys (custody) |
| Attack Surface | Small, offline, on‑device approval | Large, online, centralized target |
| Recovery Options | Deterministic phrase backup | Dependent on company policy |
| Interoperability | Works with Ledger Live & supported tools | Limited to platform features |
⚠️
Never type the recovery phrase on a computer or phone. If any app or site asks for it, it’s a scam. The phrase belongs offline — always.
Everyday Habits & Quick Fixes
Build a routine that scales with your portfolio. If something misbehaves, try these first.
Verify On‑Device
Only trust the Ledger screen for addresses and amounts. If details don’t match expectations, cancel and re‑check.
Start Small
Send a tiny test amount to new addresses or when using a new network. Confidence comes from repetition.
Label Clearly
Inside Ledger Live, name accounts and contacts. Clear labels cut mistakes and simplify audits.
Keep Apps Current
Update device apps and firmware from within Ledger Live and approve on‑device. Avoid browser extensions or third‑party installers.
Passphrase (Advanced)
Adding a passphrase creates a hidden wallet. Use only if you have robust backup discipline — losing the passphrase means losing access.
Connectivity Fixes
Try a different USB port/cable, close other wallet apps, or reboot. For Nano X Bluetooth, check permissions on mobile and retry pairing.
Myths vs. Reality
Cut through common misconceptions and help others stay safe, too.
“Screenshots of my phrase are fine.”
Screenshots sync to clouds and photo libraries — easy pickings for malware and account breaches. Keep the phrase offline on paper or metal only.
“Exchanges are safer than self‑custody.”
Exchanges are high‑value targets and can pause withdrawals. With self‑custody you don’t request access — you have it.
“If I forget my PIN, I’m locked out forever.”
Your 24‑word phrase restores access on a new device. The PIN protects the physical device, not your funds.
“Any wallet app will do.”
Only download from Ledger.com/Start. Look‑alike apps exist to harvest recovery phrases or entice risky approvals.
Mini Glossary
The five terms that make everything click.
Private Key
A secret number proving ownership of funds. It never leaves the secure element inside your Ledger.
Recovery Phrase
A 24‑word list that regenerates your private keys on a new device. Guard it like a vault combination.
Address
Where others send you crypto. It’s public to share, but always verify on‑device before receiving large amounts.
Passphrase
An optional extra word that creates a hidden wallet. Powerful, but unforgiving if forgotten.
Frequently Asked Questions
Open for concise, plain‑English answers.
Is Ledger.com/Start® the official setup page?
Use it to access authentic downloads and the recommended flow. Always type the URL yourself and check the spelling before installing anything.
What if my device is lost or destroyed?
Your funds are recoverable with the 24‑word phrase on a new device. That’s why keeping the phrase offline and private is non‑negotiable.
Does Ledger support many networks and tokens?
Yes. Install relevant apps on your device via Ledger Live, then add accounts. Manage major coins, common tokens, and view supported NFTs.
Do I need to be technical?
No. The onboarding is designed for first‑time users. Advanced features remain optional and clearly explained when enabled.
How do firmware updates work safely?
When Ledger Live prompts you, read the notes, then approve the update on‑device. This preserves the integrity of the process.
Start Now — Secure What Matters
Initialize your wallet with the official flow, learn the essentials, and build habits that last a lifetime.