Access Ledger Live, manage wallets, and follow official setup steps.
Ledger.com/Start is the official platform that helps new users install and begin using Ledger Live—the companion application for Ledger hardware wallets. The first step in securing your digital assets begins here. Always verify the official URL, ensure it uses HTTPS, and avoid links shared on unofficial channels. The site provides the latest version of Ledger Live for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Once downloaded, open Ledger Live and connect your Ledger Nano device. Follow the prompts to set up a new wallet or restore an existing one. Each Ledger device generates your private keys offline, ensuring they never leave the secure element chip.
During initialization, the device will prompt you to create a PIN code—typically 4 to 8 digits. This PIN prevents unauthorized access to your hardware wallet. Next, you will receive a 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase acts as the master key to all your funds. Write it down carefully on the provided recovery sheet. Never store it digitally or share it with anyone.
The safety of this recovery phrase is paramount. If your device is ever lost, damaged, or stolen, the recovery phrase can restore your entire wallet. Ledger’s design ensures that even if the device is compromised, your private keys stay protected.
Regular updates strengthen security and improve performance. Within Ledger Live, you’ll find the option to update both firmware and cryptocurrency apps. Only use the update option inside Ledger Live—never download firmware manually from other websites. Each update comes signed and verified by Ledger to prevent tampering.
When prompted, confirm updates directly on your Ledger device’s display before proceeding. Keeping firmware current reduces exposure to vulnerabilities and ensures compatibility with the newest cryptocurrencies.
After setup, Ledger Live allows you to add multiple cryptocurrency accounts. Use the “Receive” function to generate wallet addresses, and always confirm the address on your Ledger device screen before sharing or receiving funds. This step prevents address manipulation by malware. When sending crypto, carefully check transaction details and confirm only after validating them on your device.
Ledger supports a wide variety of assets including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and many ERC-20 tokens. Managing them through Ledger Live keeps all portfolios in one secure interface.
Consider adding a passphrase—an optional 25th word—for additional wallet segmentation. Use this feature only if you fully understand the implications, as forgetting your passphrase makes your funds unrecoverable. You can also store the recovery phrase in a fireproof or steel backup for long-term durability.
Stay alert for phishing scams. Ledger never asks for your 24-word recovery phrase or personal login details via email or social media. Only use official Ledger channels when seeking support or assistance.
By following the official setup steps at Ledger.com/Start, maintaining your device properly, and practicing safe operational habits, you ensure your cryptocurrencies remain in your control—offline, private, and secure.