Ledger.com/Start — Quick Beginner’s Guide (2026)

kamm

— 2 min read

This guide is for absolute beginners who want to set up a Ledger hardware wallet safely and quickly. Follow these steps, and you’ll be ready to manage your crypto in minutes.

Step 1: Unbox Your Ledger Wallet

When you open the box, you should see:

  • Ledger device (Nano S Plus or Nano X)
  • USB cable
  • Recovery sheet for your 24-word phrase
  • Quick start guide

✅ Tip: Make sure the packaging is sealed. Don’t use second-hand devices.

Step 2: Go to Ledger.com/Start

  1. Open your web browser.
  2. Type in Ledger.com/Start
  3. Select your device model: Nano S Plus or Nano X
  4. Download Ledger Live for your computer or mobile device
Ledger Live is the official app for managing your crypto safely.

Step 3: Connect Your Device

  • Plug your Ledger device into your computer using the USB cable
  • Nano X users can also use Bluetooth with a mobile device
  • Device will power on and display a welcome message

✅ Tip: Only connect your Ledger to trusted devices.

Step 4: Choose Setup Option

You will see two options on your Ledger device:

  1. Set up as a new device – Start a brand-new wallet
  2. Restore wallet – Recover an old wallet using your 24-word recovery phrase
For beginners, select Set up as a new device.

Step 5: Set a PIN Code

  • Use the device buttons to select a 4–8 digit PIN
  • Confirm the PIN on the device
  • Your PIN protects your wallet if it’s lost or stolen

Step 6: Write Down Your 24-Word Recovery Phrase

  • Ledger will show a 24-word recovery phrase, one word at a time
  • Write all words on the provided recovery sheet
  • Store it offline and in a safe place

⚠️ Never store the recovery phrase digitally or share it with anyone.

This phrase is the only way to recover your crypto if your device is lost.

Step 7: Install Ledger Live

  1. Open the Ledger Live installer you downloaded from Ledger.com/Start
  2. Follow the instructions for your device (Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android)
  3. Open Ledger Live and click Get Started
  4. Connect your Ledger device and follow the prompts

Step 8: Add Cryptocurrency Accounts

  1. In Ledger Live, go to Accounts → Add Account
  2. Select the cryptocurrency you want (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.)
  3. Confirm the account on your Ledger device
  4. Repeat for other cryptocurrencies you want to manage
Ledger supports thousands of crypto coins and tokens.

Step 9: Send & Receive Crypto

To Receive Crypto:

  • Click Receive in Ledger Live
  • Select your account
  • Confirm the address on your device before sharing

To Send Crypto:

  • Click Send
  • Enter the recipient address and amount
  • Confirm on your Ledger device

✅ Always verify the address on the device screen to prevent fraud.

Step 10: Keep Your Wallet Secure

  • Download Ledger Live only from Ledger.com/Start
  • Keep your PIN and recovery phrase safe
  • Update Ledger Live and your Ledger device regularly
  • Only connect your Ledger to trusted devices
Following these tips ensures your crypto is safe and under your control.

You’re Done!

Congratulations! Your Ledger wallet is now ready. You can safely send, receive, and manage your cryptocurrencies using Ledger Live.

Ledger.com/Start makes setup simple for beginners, giving you full control and maximum security over your crypto.

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