Ledger Start — Official setup & security guide

Step-by-step onboarding for Ledger hardware wallets and Ledger Wallet app

Get started safely with Ledger — initialization, recovery & pairing

Ledger Start is the official onboarding path for Ledger hardware wallets (Nano, Nano S Plus, Nano X, Stax and Flex). This guide walks you through securely unboxing and initializing your device, creating and storing your recovery phrase offline, pairing with Ledger Wallet (formerly Ledger Live), and basic firmware & app management for long-term self-custody.

Official guide Security-first Device-verified Ledger Wallet pairing
Secure initialization
Device-only key generation, PIN setup & hardware verification.
Recovery phrase guidance
Generate and store the 24-word recovery offline — never share it online.
Ledger Wallet pairing
Install apps, manage accounts, buy/swap/stake via supported providers.
Firmware & app updates
Keep your device firmware and Ledger Wallet up to date to receive security patches.
Open Ledger Start Ledger Support

Quick start — 6 essential steps

1
Buy genuine device
Only purchase from Ledger store or authorized resellers to avoid tampered devices.
2
Unbox & verify
Check seals, boot animation, and device model before powering on.
3
Initialize on-device
Create a PIN and generate your recovery phrase on the secure element — never on a connected PC/browser.
4
Write the recovery phrase down
Use the provided recovery sheets or a fireproof metal backup. Never store the phrase digitally or online.
5
Install Ledger Wallet
Download Ledger Wallet app for desktop or mobile and pair your device to manage accounts.
6
Install apps & transfer funds
Install only the crypto apps you need and verify transactions on the device’s screen before approving.

Core features & functionality

What Ledger Start enables you to do, and why it matters for long-term security and self-custody.

  • On-device key generation — Private keys are generated and stored inside the secure element; they never leave the device during normal operation.
  • Recovery phrase management — Guided instructions to safely record and safeguard your 24-word seed for recovery.
  • Device authentication — Verifies device genuineness and firmware integrity to reduce phishing & tampering risk.
  • Ledger Wallet integration — Install applications, add accounts, monitor portfolio, and access buy/swap/stake partners.
  • Firmware updates — Receive and apply firmware updates securely via Ledger Wallet to patch vulnerabilities.
  • Compatibility — Supports thousands of crypto assets and common wallets/dApps through standard integrations.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Is Ledger Start the official source to set up my device?
A: Yes — Ledger Start is the official step-by-step onboarding page from Ledger; follow it to minimize setup mistakes and phishing risks.
Q: How should I store my recovery phrase?
A: Write it down on the recovery cards or use a certified metal backup. Keep it offline and in a secure, private place. Never take photos or store it online.
Q: Can I restore my wallet on another device?
A: Yes. If you have your recovery phrase you can restore the same wallets & addresses on any compatible Ledger device or compatible wallet that supports the seed format.
Q: What should I verify before approving a transaction?
A: Always verify the recipient address and amount match what you expect, and confirm transaction details on the device screen before pressing approve.
Q: What happens if my device is lost or stolen?
A: Use your recovery phrase on a new device to restore funds. If you believe the recovery phrase was compromised, move funds to a new wallet immediately.