your complete beginner guide to Ledger Live
cryptocurrency is becoming more popular every day, but so are online scams, hacks, and digital theft. if you want real safety and full control over your crypto, nothing is more secure than a ledger hardware wallet. and the official and only safe place to begin your setup is ledger.com/start.
this complete guide walks you through every simple step, using clear language and helpful icons.
🔐 what is ledger.com/start and why is it important?
ledger.com/start is the official setup portal created by ledger. its purpose is to help new users:
install the ledger live app
set up their hardware wallet
save the 24-word recovery phrase
add crypto accounts
send & receive crypto
follow important safety rules
because many fake websites exist, always type the address manually: ledger.com/start
📦 step 1: unbox your ledger device
inside your ledger box, you will find:
✔️ ledger nano s plus / nano x / stax
✔️ usb cable
✔️ recovery phrase sheets
✔️ getting-started card
✔️ stickers (optional)
before you begin, check:
the box is sealed
nothing looks tampered
device screen turns on normally
security starts from the first moment.
🌐 step 2: visit the official setup link
open your browser and go to:
👉 ledger.com/start
here you select your device model. this ensures that you follow the correct setup steps, specific to your device type.
💻 step 3: download and install ledger live
ledger live is the main application used to manage everything related to your hardware wallet. you can install it on:
windows
mac
linux
android
ios
after downloading:
open ledger live
click get started
choose your ledger model
the app will guide you step-by-step.
🔢 step 4: create your secure pin
connecting your ledger to a computer or phone will display the setup menu.
choose set up as new device, then create your pin.
tips for a secure pin:
avoid simple numbers like 0000 or 1234
do not share it
memorize it securely
the pin protects the device if someone else gets physical access.
📝 step 5: write down your 24-word recovery phrase
this is the most important part of the entire process.
your ledger device will display a unique 24-word recovery phrase.
⚠️ rules you must follow:
never take a screenshot
never save it on a phone or computer
never store it in email or cloud
never share it with anyone
ledger support will never ask for it
write all 24 words in the correct order on the provided card.
your recovery phrase = access to your crypto.
🔍 step 6: verify device authenticity
ledger live performs a genuine device check. this ensures:
your device is original
firmware is secure
no tampering has occurred
this is an automatic security feature.
⚙️ step 7: install crypto apps on the device
ledger devices require apps for each cryptocurrency. inside ledger live:
go to my ledger
open app catalog
install bitcoin, ethereum, solana, polygon, bnb, etc.
apps can be installed or removed anytime — your crypto stays safe.
🧾 step 8: add your crypto accounts
to manage a coin, you need an “account” for it.
go to:
accounts → add account → choose currency → confirm on device
this lets you track balances and transactions inside ledger live.
📥 step 9: receive crypto safely
receiving crypto is simple:
click receive
choose your currency
verify the address on your ledger device
this verification step protects you from malware that could alter your address.
copy the address and send crypto from an exchange or another wallet.
📤 step 10: send crypto without risk
sending crypto requires on-device approval.
click send
enter address + amount
confirm details on the ledger device
approve transaction
never approve a transaction unless all information matches on your hardware wallet screen.
🔒 must-follow security rules
never share the recovery phrase
only use ledger.com/start
update firmware regularly
protect your pin
avoid unofficial software
🎯 final takeaway
ledger.com/start is the safest, simplest path for beginners. following the steps correctly ensures your crypto remains secure, private, and always under your control.