🔐 Ledger.com/Start — Quick-Start + Safety Checklist

Goal: set up your Ledger (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax) the right way, keep your coins safe, and avoid phishing.

1) Before you begin

Use your own computer/phone (not public or shared).
Update your OS and your browser/app store.
Grab a pen and the Recovery Sheet from the box.

2) Go to the official portal

Type ledger.com/start yourself (don’t click ads or random links).
Confirm the padlock (HTTPS) in the address bar.
From there, download Ledger Live (desktop or mobile).

3) Install Ledger Live

Install only the app you just downloaded.
Open it, choose “Get started”, then pick your device model.

4) Power on & connect your device

Plug in via the original USB cable (or pair Nano X/Stax by Bluetooth on mobile if you prefer).
Follow the on-screen prompts in Ledger Live and on the device.

5) Set your PIN (first defense)

Choose a 4–8 digit PIN you can remember but others can’t guess.
Re-enter to confirm. Never share it.

6) Write your 24-word Recovery Phrase (ultimate backup)

Let the device generate the 24 words.
Write every word, in order, on paper (no photos, no cloud, no screenshots).
The device will verify random words—pass that check before continuing.
Store the sheet offline (consider a fire/water-resistant stash or a metal backup).

Remember: anyone with these 24 words can access your crypto. Ledger support will never ask for them.

7) Pair with Ledger Live & install apps

In Ledger Live, finish device checks to confirm authenticity.
Go to My Ledger → install coin apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
Add Accounts for each coin you’ll use.

8) Test a tiny transaction

Create a Receive address in Ledger Live; verify the address on the device screen before sharing.
Send a small test amount first, then the rest once confirmed.

9) Ongoing security habits

Keep Firmware and Ledger Live updated.
Verify every address on the device screen (not just on your computer/phone).
Enable password lock for Ledger Live and use a strong device PIN.
Consider passphrase (advanced) only if you understand hidden wallets and can back it up safely.

Common pitfalls (and how to avoid them)

Phishing pages: Only use ledger.com/start; bookmark it. Never follow “support” links from DMs.
Seed typed on a keyboard: Don’t. Paper/metal only, offline.
Mix-ups with account vs. app: The coin app on the device is not the same as the account in Ledger Live—you need both.
Skipping the test send: Always start small to catch mistakes.

Mini-FAQ

Q: Lost my device—are my funds gone?
A: No. Get a new Ledger, choose Restore from recovery phrase, enter the same 24 words, and your accounts reappear.

Q: Can Ledger see my balances?
A: Your keys live on the device; balances are read from the blockchain. Use privacy settings and consider Advanced options in Ledger Live if needed.

Q: Do I need internet to create the seed?
A: The seed is generated offline on the device. You only need internet for Ledger Live updates and syncing.