Welcome to Ledger® Hardware Wallet

Ledger® devices provide enterprise-grade security for your cryptocurrency assets. By storing your private keys in a secure offline environment, Ledger® protects your digital wealth from online threats while giving you complete control over your assets.

Understanding the Ledger® Ecosystem

Your Ledger® experience consists of two main components: the physical hardware wallet (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax) and the Ledger Live software application. The hardware device stores your private keys securely offline, while Ledger Live serves as your interface for managing your portfolio.

Enterprise-Grade Security

Complete Setup Guide

1
Visit Ledger.com/start

Begin your setup journey by navigating to the official Ledger.com/start page. This portal provides device-specific instructions tailored to your Ledger® model and ensures you're following the most current setup process.

The Ledger.com/start page automatically detects your device type and provides relevant guidance, video tutorials, and troubleshooting resources.

2
Download Ledger Live

Ledger Live is your gateway to managing your crypto portfolio. Choose the version that matches your needs:

  • Ledger Live Desktop: Full-featured application for Windows, macOS, and Linux systems
  • Ledger Live App: Mobile version for iOS and Android devices with optimized touch interface

Always download Ledger Live directly from the official Ledger.com website or verified app stores to avoid counterfeit applications.

3
Initialize Your Ledger® Device

When setting up your new Ledger® hardware wallet:

  1. Connect your device and follow the on-screen prompts
  2. Create a strong PIN code (4-8 digits) that you'll remember
  3. Write down your 24-word recovery phrase in the exact order provided
  4. Verify your recovery phrase to confirm accurate recording
Critical Security Advice: Your 24-word recovery phrase is the master key to all your cryptocurrencies. Store it physically in multiple secure locations. Never digitize it (no photos, cloud storage, or digital documents) and never share it with anyone. Ledger® will never ask for your recovery phrase.
4
Ledger Live Login & Configuration

After installation, configure Ledger Live with these steps:

  1. Launch Ledger Live and select "Get Started"
  2. Choose "Initialize as new device" for first-time setup
  3. Connect your Ledger® device when prompted
  4. Use the Manager within Ledger Live to install cryptocurrency apps
  5. Add accounts for each cryptocurrency you want to manage

The Ledger Live login process doesn't involve traditional credentials. Instead, you authenticate transactions directly on your hardware device, ensuring maximum security.

Official Resources & Downloads

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is Ledger.com/start and why do I need it?

Ledger.com/start is the official setup portal for all Ledger® devices. It provides device-specific instructions, video tutorials, and the most current setup guidance. Using this portal ensures you're following the recommended process for your specific device model and firmware version.

Is there a difference between Ledger Live Desktop and the Ledger Live App?

Yes, while both applications provide access to your cryptocurrency portfolio, Ledger Live Desktop (for computers) offers the full suite of features including staking, swap services, and advanced portfolio analytics. The Ledger Live App (for mobile devices) focuses on essential functions like checking balances, sending/receiving crypto, and mobile convenience.

How does Ledger login work? Do I need to create an account?

Ledger® uses a unique security model that doesn't require traditional account creation. Your identity is your hardware device and recovery phrase. For Ledger Live, there's no username/password combination. You simply connect your device to access your portfolio. Transaction approvals happen directly on your hardware device through physical confirmation.

Can I use my Ledger® device with third-party wallets instead of Ledger Live?

Absolutely. Ledger® devices are compatible with numerous third-party wallets and DeFi platforms through integrations like WalletConnect. However, Ledger Live provides the most seamless and user-friendly experience, especially for beginners. Advanced users often combine Ledger Live with specialized wallets for specific cryptocurrencies or DeFi activities.

What happens if I lose my Ledger® device or it gets stolen?

If you've securely stored your 24-word recovery phrase, your funds remain completely safe. Simply acquire a new Ledger® device (or any BIP39-compatible wallet), select "Restore from recovery phrase" during setup, and enter your 24 words. Your entire wallet with all accounts and transaction history will be restored. The lost/stolen device is useless without your PIN and recovery phrase.

How often should I update my Ledger Live software and device firmware?

Regular updates are crucial for security and functionality. Update Ledger Live whenever a new version is available through the application itself. Device firmware should be updated when prompted in Ledger Live, typically every few months. These updates often include security patches, new features, and support for additional cryptocurrencies.