Ledger.com/start®

Introduction to Ledger & Device Startup

Welcome to the definitive guide on how to start your Ledger hardware wallet securely and efficiently. Ledger™ is a globally trusted brand offering one of the most secure hardware wallets to protect your cryptocurrencies. This guide walks you through the entire process from unboxing to managing your digital assets.

If you are familiar with other popular wallets like Trezor.io/start or have used the Trezor Suite or Trezor Hardware Wallet, you’ll find that Ledger shares a common mission — safeguarding your crypto assets with user-friendly and advanced technology.

This guide covers starting your Ledger device, setting up Ledger Live software, securing your wallet, and troubleshooting common issues. We also touch on how Ledger's approach compares with Trezor Bridge and other solutions.

Getting Started: Unboxing and Initial Setup

Unboxing Your Ledger Device

Your journey begins by carefully unboxing your Ledger device. Ledger hardware wallets come in tamper-proof packaging to guarantee the authenticity of your device. Upon unboxing, ensure you have the following items:

• Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S, Nano X, or model specific)
• USB cable or charging accessories (if applicable)
• Recovery sheets for your recovery phrase
• Instruction booklet or quick start guide

If anything is missing or the packaging looks compromised, do not proceed and contact official Ledger support immediately.

Step 1: Visit Ledger.com/start

To start your device, go to ledger.com/start. This official page guides you through downloading Ledger Live, the essential software for managing your wallet.

Remember: Avoid third-party websites or links to prevent phishing attacks.

Step 2: Download and Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the companion app for your hardware wallet. It’s available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.

Once downloaded, install the application following the platform-specific instructions. Ledger Live lets you initialize your hardware wallet, add cryptocurrency accounts, send and receive assets, and update firmware.

Step 3: Initialize Your Ledger Hardware Wallet

Connect your Ledger device to your computer or mobile device using a USB cable (or Bluetooth for Nano X). Launch Ledger Live and select Initialize as new device.

During initialization, your Ledger device will generate a recovery phrase (usually 24 words). This recovery phrase is your ultimate backup — write it down carefully on the provided recovery sheets and keep it in a secure, offline location.

NEVER share your recovery phrase with anyone or enter it into any software or website other than Ledger Live.

Step 4: Set Your PIN Code

Set a strong PIN directly on your Ledger device. This PIN prevents unauthorized access if your device is lost or stolen.

Confirm your PIN by entering it twice as prompted. Avoid simple sequences like “1234” or “0000.”

Step 5: Install Apps for Cryptocurrencies

Ledger Live allows you to install dedicated apps for each cryptocurrency supported by your hardware wallet. For example, if you want to manage Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other altcoins, you will install the respective apps through the Ledger Live interface.

Step 6: Add Accounts to Ledger Live

After installing apps on your device, add the accounts in Ledger Live. This enables you to track balances, transaction history, and send/receive funds.

The Ledger Live Ecosystem

Ledger Live is more than just an app; it’s an ecosystem designed to manage your crypto securely. It offers real-time portfolio tracking, exchange integrations, staking options, and firmware management.

Firmware Updates

Ledger regularly releases firmware updates that patch vulnerabilities and add new features. Always keep your Ledger device firmware and Ledger Live app updated.

The update process is straightforward: Ledger Live notifies you when updates are available, and you confirm installation on your device.

Cross-Device Compatibility

Ledger Live supports multiple devices — you can manage multiple hardware wallets from one app. This flexibility is useful if you hold assets across multiple wallets.

Ledger Live vs Trezor Suite and Others

Just as Trezor Suite works with Trezor Hardware Wallets using Trezor Bridge to communicate with devices, Ledger Live is the official interface for Ledger hardware wallets. Both ecosystems provide robust security but vary in interface, supported coins, and features.

While Trezor uses the web-based Trezor Suite and a bridge system, Ledger Live is a standalone app available on desktop and mobile platforms.

Security Best Practices for Ledger Users

• Secure Your Recovery Phrase: Keep your recovery phrase offline, ideally written on the provided recovery sheets. Avoid digital storage or photos.
• Never Share Your PIN or Recovery Phrase: Ledger or any official support will never ask for these details.
• Verify Official Websites: Always use official URLs such as ledger.com/start or official app stores.
• Beware of Phishing: Do not enter your recovery phrase on any website or software other than Ledger Live.
• Use Strong PINs: Avoid easy PIN codes and update periodically if needed.
• Regular Firmware Updates: Keep your device firmware updated to benefit from security patches.
• Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Enable 2FA on exchange accounts linked with Ledger-managed assets.

Following these steps greatly reduces the risk of loss or theft of your crypto assets.

Troubleshooting & Common Issues

Device Not Recognized by Ledger Live

If your Ledger device isn’t detected:

• Check your USB cable and ports; try different cables or ports.
• Make sure Ledger Live is up to date.
• Restart your computer or device.
• For Ledger Nano X, ensure Bluetooth is enabled and paired properly.
• Try reinstalling Ledger Live.

Firmware Update Fails

If a firmware update does not complete:

• Ensure your device is connected and has sufficient battery.
• Retry the update via Ledger Live.
• If issues persist, consult Ledger’s official support.

Lost or Forgotten PIN

If you forget your PIN:

• You will need to reset the device to factory settings.
• This will erase all stored data; you must recover your wallet using your recovery phrase.
• Follow the initialization process again using the recovery phrase.

Using Trezor Devices Alongside Ledger

Some users own both Ledger and Trezor wallets. The Trezor Bridge allows communication with Trezor hardware, while Ledger Live supports Ledger devices. It’s possible to securely manage multiple wallets across platforms, using each official software to maintain maximum security.