Ledger.com/Start® | Getting started — Ledger Support

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— 2 min read

This guide will walk you through the essential steps of setting up your Ledger device, a hardware wallet that keeps your private keys offline for maximum security, offering a robust alternative for accessing and managing your assets compared to software-based methods like a Trezor login.

Step 1: Download Ledger Live App

Begin your setup by downloading the official Ledger Live app, your central hub for managing your crypto. It is the only application you should use to manage your Ledger® device.

  • Visit the Official Source: Always download Ledger Live directly from the official website at ledger.com/start. This ensures you get the genuine software and avoid phishing sites.
  • Choose Your OS: Select the correct version for your computer's operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
  • Install the Application: Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation on your computer.

Step 2: Initialize Your Ledger Device

With Ledger Live installed, it's time to set up your physical hardware wallet.

  • Connect Your Device: Use the provided USB cable to connect your Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X to your computer.
  • Configure as New Device: When prompted on the device screen, choose "Configure as new device."
  • Write Down Your Recovery Phrase: Your device will generate a unique 24-word recovery phrase. This is the most critical step. Write down each word in the exact order on your provided recovery sheet. This phrase is the master key to all your assets—never store it digitally or share it with anyone.
  • Confirm the Phrase: You will be asked to re-select several words from your recovery phrase to verify you've written it down correctly.

Step 3: Add Your Crypto Accounts

After initializing your device, use Ledger Live to create accounts for the cryptocurrencies you own.

  • Open Ledger Live: Launch the Ledger Live app on your computer.
  • Unlock Your Device: Connect and unlock your Ledger device using your PIN code.
  • Navigate to 'Accounts': In Ledger Live, go to the "Accounts" tab and click "Add account."
  • Select a Crypto Asset: Choose the cryptocurrency you want to manage (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
  • Follow On-Screen Instructions: Ledger Live will guide you through installing the necessary app on your device and synchronizing your account. Your device's screen will confirm actions, ensuring full control.

Why Choose Ledger for Ultimate Security?

Using a Ledger® hardware wallet provides distinct security advantages for managing your digital assets. Unlike software wallets or exchanges where private keys are stored online, Ledger keeps your keys isolated within the secure chip of your physical device. This means your keys never leave the device, making them immune to remote hackers.

This hardware-based approach offers a fundamental security upgrade over other methods. For instance, when you need to access your holdings, you physically confirm transactions on your Ledger device, a more secure process than a typical Trezor login or software wallet confirmation that can be vulnerable to malware on your computer. Your private keys remain offline and protected at all times.

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