The Official Ledger.com/Start Guide
Your definitive, secure, and unique pathway to setting up your Ledger Nano device. This essential process ensures you achieve true self-custody and protect your digital wealth.
Download Ledger Live AppAlways download from the official link above.
The 4 Critical Steps to Crypto Security
Initial Device Setup & Genuine Check
Verify that your device packaging is sealed and untouched. Connect your Ledger Nano to your computer via USB. Follow the on-screen prompts to begin the initialization process within the device itself.
Define Your Secure PIN
On your Ledger device screen, choose a strong 4 to 8-digit PIN. This PIN acts as your device lock and must be entered every time you connect your device. **Crucially, your PIN should only ever be entered on the Ledger device itself.**
Secure Your 24-Word Phrase
Your Ledger screen will display your unique 24-word Secret Recovery Phrase (SRP) one word at a time. Write these words down **in order** on the physical recovery sheet provided. This is the only backup—keep it offline and hidden.
Finalize with Ledger Live
Open the Ledger Live application. Once connected, install the cryptocurrency apps you need (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) via the 'Manager' section, and then add your corresponding accounts to view your portfolio.
Why Self-Custody Starts at Ledger.com/Start
The journey to secure crypto ownership begins not just with a hardware device, but with the **correct, verified initialization process.** This process, detailed on Ledger.com/Start, isolates your private keys from your computer and the internet, establishing the foundation of your security. Your Ledger wallet is not where your crypto is stored; it is the unique, trusted screen and physical button that confirms transactions—meaning **no hacker can sign transactions without physical access to you.**
It is absolutely vital to understand that the **Secret Recovery Phrase (SRP) is your sole master key.** Ledger will never ask you for this phrase in a digital format. If you lose your Ledger device, the SRP is your lifeline to recovering your funds on any compatible wallet. Treat it like gold: write it, verify it, and store it in a secret, offline location—away from fire, water, and online threats. This is the difference between true ownership and relying on a third-party exchange.
Ledger Live: The Verified Gateway
Ledger Live is the essential desktop and mobile application for managing your assets, installing blockchain apps on your device, and, most importantly, **performing the Genuine Check.** This patented authentication verifies your device's security chip. By ensuring you download Ledger Live *only* through the official pathway (Ledger.com/Start), you neutralize the threat of malicious look-alike software designed to steal your assets.
Explore the Ledger Academy for deeper security insightSelf-Custody: The Best Practices
Your security is a process, not a product. Master these three critical rules for irreversible protection.
Protect the 24 Words (SRP)
Your Secret Recovery Phrase must never be typed, photographed, saved on a computer, or stored in a password manager. It stays offline, permanently.
Trust Only Your Device
Always verify the transaction details (address, amount) on the Ledger device's trusted screen. The device display is the source of truth, not your computer screen.
Verify the Software Source
Download and update Ledger Live only from the official Ledger.com domain. Phishing attempts often use fake links to trick users into installing malicious software.
FAQs for New Ledger Users
Ready to Start?
Follow the official path. Your digital future is secured by you.
Go to the Official Ledger Website