Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started with Ledger

Getting started with cryptocurrency can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to keeping your digital assets secure. That’s where Ledger, a trusted name in crypto security, makes the process easier. With Ledger hardware wallets and the Ledger Live app, users can manage, store, and grow their digital assets with confidence. This guide walks you through the steps to begin using Ledger from setup to your first transaction.

What Is Ledger?

Ledger is a hardware-based cryptocurrency wallet solution that enables secure management of your crypto assets. Unlike software wallets or online exchanges, Ledger keeps your private keys stored on a physical device, disconnected from the internet. This reduces the risks of hacking, phishing, and malware.

There are two primary products offered by Ledger:

Ledger Nano S Plus
Ledger Nano X

Both devices integrate with Ledger Live, the official desktop and mobile app that serves as your dashboard for managing crypto, staking assets, buying or swapping coins, and more.

Step 1: Purchase from the Official Site

To ensure product authenticity and security, always buy your Ledger device from the official website: Ledger.com. Avoid purchasing from unofficial third parties or resellers to reduce the risk of tampering.

Once you’ve placed your order, you’ll receive the device along with a USB cable, instruction manual, and a recovery sheet for backing up your wallet.

Step 2: Unbox and Set Up Your Ledger Device

After receiving your device, go to Ledger.com/start to begin the official setup process. This ensures that you're downloading legitimate software and following safe procedures.

The setup process involves:

Connecting the device to your computer or mobile device
Installing Ledger Live, the official app for managing your wallet
Creating a PIN code to protect your device
Writing down your 24-word recovery phrase on the provided sheet

Your recovery phrase is the only way to recover your wallet if your device is lost or reset. It must be stored offline and in a secure place. Never share this phrase with anyone.

Step 3: Install Apps and Add Crypto Accounts

Each cryptocurrency you plan to use requires a specific app to be installed on your Ledger device. Through Ledger Live, go to the “My Ledger” section and install apps like Bitcoin, Ethereum, or others you intend to manage.

After installing the necessary apps, you can add accounts within Ledger Live. This allows you to view your balances, send and receive coins, and track transaction history.

Step 4: Receive Crypto to Your Ledger Wallet

To receive cryptocurrency:

Open the Ledger Live app
Navigate to the “Receive” tab
Select the appropriate crypto account
Copy the wallet address displayed
Confirm the address on your Ledger device screen

Only use wallet addresses generated by Ledger Live and verified on your physical device. Sending funds to the wrong address or using a compromised wallet can result in loss of funds.

Step 5: Send Crypto Securely

When you're ready to send crypto, open Ledger Live and follow these steps:

Click “Send”
Enter the recipient’s wallet address and amount
Review the transaction on your Ledger device
Confirm and sign the transaction physically on the device

This dual confirmation process prevents unauthorized transfers, even if your computer is compromised.

Exploring Ledger Live Features

Ledger Live is more than just a wallet interface. It includes a wide range of features such as:

Portfolio tracking: Monitor your entire crypto portfolio in real time
Buying crypto: Purchase coins using third-party integrations
Swapping assets: Exchange one crypto for another without leaving the app
Staking: Earn passive income by staking supported assets like Ethereum or Polkadot
NFT support: Manage and view non-fungible tokens on supported blockchains

All of these features are performed without exposing your private keys online.

Stay Secure

Here are a few important security tips to keep in mind when using Ledger:

Only use the official Ledger Live app downloaded from Ledger.com
Keep your firmware and apps updated regularly
Never share your 24-word recovery phrase, even with someone claiming to be “Ledger support”
Store your recovery sheet in a safe place that is not connected to the internet
Avoid entering your recovery phrase on any digital device

Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase under any circumstance. Always verify URLs and beware of phishing websites.

Need Help? Use Ledger Support

If you encounter any issues, the official Ledger Support center at Ledger.com provides tutorials, FAQs, and troubleshooting guides. You can also submit a support request directly through Ledger Live.

Common topics include:

Device not recognized
App installation errors
Recovery and backup procedures
Firmware update instructions

All help is provided with your privacy and safety in mind.

Final Thoughts

Ledger offers a secure and intuitive way to manage your cryptocurrency. By combining offline key storage with a user-friendly app, it provides one of the safest methods for handling digital assets. Whether you’re new to crypto or a long-time investor, starting with Ledger.com/Start ensures you’re building your portfolio on a foundation of trust and security.