Safe, Official Setup via Ledger.com/start — Initialize your Ledger device, secure your recovery phrase, and begin storing crypto with confidence.
Begin Initialization NowWhen you initialize your Ledger hardware wallet using the official portal at Ledger.com/start, you ensure every step follows verified instructions. This reduces the risk of fake software, phishing, or compromised recovery phrases. Ledger’s own documentation stresses the importance of powering on the device, creating a PIN, and letting the device generate a seed phrase that you control. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Compatible models include Ledger Nano S, Nano X, Nano S Plus, or Stax. Ensure packaging is sealed and hasn’t been tampered with. Ledger specifies devices should be brand new and not pre‑initialized. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Download the official Ledger Live app via Ledger.com/start. Versions are available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. Always use the download link from Ledger.com/start to avoid phishing. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
You’ll be given a 24‑word recovery phrase. Use the recovery card in the package and a reliable pen. Never record the phrase digitally or take photos. Ledger's best practices clearly warn against digital storage of seed phrase. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Setup takes around 10‑20 minutes. Choose a quiet, safe location with stable power/internet. Avoid rushing through seed phrase, PIN, firmware steps. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Open your browser and go to https://ledger.com/start. Confirm you are on the correct official site by checking the URL and SSL certificate. Avoid using search engine ads or links from untrusted sources. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Select the version for your operating system from the official portal. Only download Ledger Live from Ledger.com/start to ensure you're getting the legitimate version. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Remove the Ledger from its packaging. Use the provided USB cable (or for Nano X, Bluetooth if applicable). Connect to your computer or mobile device. Ledger warns that device should not be pre‑configured. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Ledger Live will prompt asking whether to create a new wallet or recover one. Choose to set up new. This triggers generation of new private keys along with recovery phrase. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Create a PIN code (typically 4‑8 digits) that you will remember but is hard for others to guess. The PIN protects access to your device. Confirm the PIN by entering twice. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
Your Ledger device will display a 24‑word recovery phrase. Write each word in order on the recovery sheet. Store it offline. Ledger emphasizes NEVER entering it on any online device. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
To ensure you recorded it correctly, the device will ask you to confirm a few random words from the phrase. If wrong, you may lose access in case device fails. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
Once basic initialization is complete, use Ledger Live to install crypto apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) onto the device. Then add accounts to manage assets. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
After following these steps, your Ledger wallet will be ready for secure crypto storage. You’ll have full control over your private keys, ability to send & receive, and peace of mind knowing your setup is done correctly.
Go to Ledger.com/startLedger will never ask for your recovery phrase. Anyone who does is phishing. Protect the phrase as it is your only backup. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
Keep your 24 words in a safe place — paper or metal — somewhere only you can access. Avoid digital storage, photos, cloud backups. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
Check that your Ledger device came from an authorized retailer, not pre‑configured. Validate firmware version from trusted sources. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
Only use ledger.com/start and official apps. Discard emails or links that ask for your seed words. Ledger’s documentation warns heavily about phishing. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
If you receive a device that already has a recovery phrase or PIN set, do NOT use it. Contact Ledger support. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
Yes — with your 24‑word recovery phrase, you can restore your wallet and funds on another Ledger device. Without the phrase, access to funds is lost. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
Yes, writing on paper (or metal backups) is safe so long as it's stored securely. Avoid exposure to fire, water, theft. Never store digitally. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
If you lose it, you can reset the device, but you’ll need your recovery phrase to regain access. If both are lost, access to funds is lost. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}