Ledger.com/Start® || Getting started®® |Ledger
Ledger.com/Start® || Getting started®® |Ledger
So you’ve just unboxed your brand‑new Ledger hardware wallet—congrats! You’re about to step into the world of secure self‑custody, where your private keys never leave a tamper‑proof device. This post walks you through every milestone on the “Ledger.com/Start® || Getting Started®®” journey, from powering on the device for the first time to making your first transaction. Let’s dive in.
Inside the box you’ll find the Ledger device (Nano S, Nano X, or the fresh Ledger Stax), a USB‑C or micro‑USB cable, a recovery sheet, and a quick start guide.
Check the seal – The box should be intact. Any break could mean the device has been compromised.
Inspect the hardware – Look for scratches on the screen or any foreign material around the USB port.
If everything looks good, proceed to the next step.
Ledger Live is the companion app that bridges your computer or mobile device with the hardware wallet.
Go to ledger.com/start (or simply search “Ledger Live” in your browser).
Choose the version that matches your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android).
Run the installer and follow the on‑screen prompts.
Once installed, open Ledger Live and let it update the firmware to the latest version. The app will automatically detect the connected device and guide you through any necessary updates.
When you power on the Ledger for the first time, the screen displays a “Welcome” message. Follow these actions:
Set a PIN – Use the device’s two‑button navigation to choose a 4‑ to 8‑digit PIN. Confirm it on the next screen.
Write down the recovery phrase – The device will now generate a 24‑word recovery seed. Write each word on the provided recovery sheet in the exact order. This seed is your ultimate backup; nevertype it into any computer or phone.
Security tip: Store the recovery sheet in a safe, fire‑proof location (e.g., a safe or a locked drawer). Do not keep a digital copy.
Ledger forces you to verify the recovery phrase to ensure you wrote it down correctly. The device will ask you to select a few random words from the list. Complete the check successfully, and you’ll be ready to proceed.
Back in Ledger Live:
Click “Add Account” on the left sidebar.
Choose the blockchain you want to use (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana).
Give the account a name—if you have multiple wallets, a descriptive label helps.
The app will generate a fresh address for that blockchain. You can now copy the address to receive funds.
Before moving large amounts, send a tiny test transaction:
Send a few dollars (or the smallest fraction) from a software wallet (like MetaMask) to the address you just created.
Confirm on the Ledger device by pressing the right button to approve the transaction.
Once the test transfer appears in Ledger Live, you’re confident the setup works.
Ledger Live isn’t just for sending and receiving. Dig into its additional tools:
Portfolio View – Get a unified snapshot of all your assets across chains.
Exchange – Swap one crypto for another directly inside the app (through integrated partners).
NFT Gallery – For devices that support it, view and manage your NFTs.
You can also install apps for different blockchains—each new app adds a new account. Simply click the “App catalog” in Ledger Live to choose the ones you need.
Never share your PIN or recovery seed – Ledger staff will never ask for them.
Firmware updates – Regularly check for firmware upgrades; they often contain critical security patches.
Use the “Verify Address” feature – Always double‑check the address displayed on the device matches the one shown on your computer.
Device not recognized – Try a different USB cable or port. Ensure you’re using the official cable that came with the device.
Ledger Live stuck on “Waiting for device” – Restart both the app and the device, then re‑connect.
Forgotten PIN – The only solution is to reset the device using the recovery seed (which is why it’s crucial to keep that seed safe).
You’ve now completed every step on the “Ledger.com/Start® || Getting Started®®” path: you’ve inspected the hardware, set a PIN, secured your recovery phrase, installed Ledger Live, added accounts, and even made a test transaction. You’re equipped to manage your crypto assets with the highest level of security.
Ready to explore the full ecosystem? Dive into DeFi, stake your tokens, or collect NFTs—your Ledger device will keep everything safe while you enjoy the freedom of self‑custody. Happyhodling!