Set Up Ledger Nano — Start at ledger.com/start

A colorful, step-by-step guide to securely initialize your Ledger hardware wallet and protect your crypto.

Why use a Ledger Nano?

Hardware wallets like the Ledger Nano store your crypto private keys offline — which is the strongest protection against online attacks, phishing, and remote hacks. This page walks you through the official, safe way to set up your device, starting at ledger.com/start. Follow each step carefully, keep your recovery phrase private, and take your time. Your crypto security depends on it.

Before you begin — checklist

  • Original Ledger device and official USB cable (or box contents).
  • A clean computer or phone with an up-to-date browser.
  • Paper and a pen to write down the recovery phrase (do not store it digitally!).
  • A quiet, private space where you won’t be interrupted.

Step-by-step setup (quick overview)

1) Go to ledger.com/start

Open your browser and type ledger.com/start exactly — do not click links from unknown sources. This page will guide you to download Ledger's official app (Ledger Live) and the latest firmware.

2) Unbox and power on

Connect your Ledger Nano to your computer or phone with the supplied cable. Follow the on-screen prompts to power on the device and select your language using the device buttons.

3) Choose a PIN

Create a PIN code on the device. Choose something memorable but not guessable, and never share it. The PIN protects access to the Ledger if it’s lost or stolen.

4) Write down the recovery phrase

The device will show a recovery phrase (usually 24 words). Write these words in order on the supplied recovery sheet. This is your backup — anyone with these words can access your funds. Keep them offline and secure.

5) Confirm the recovery phrase

Your Ledger will ask you to confirm a few words from the phrase, ensuring you copied them correctly. Only confirm on the device itself.

6) Install apps with Ledger Live

Open Ledger Live (downloaded from ledger.com/start) and follow the on-screen instructions to install the crypto apps you need (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Ledger Live lets you manage accounts and check balances safely.

Security best practices

  1. Never type your recovery phrase into a computer or phone. The phrase should be written on paper (or steel backup) only.
  2. Beware of phishing. Always type ledger.com/start manually. Do not trust unsolicited messages instructing you to reveal your phrase or install unknown software.
  3. Keep multiple backups. Consider storing your recovery sheet in two separate secure locations (safe deposit box, home safe) in case of fire or loss.
  4. Use a strong PIN and enable additional protections. If your device supports passphrase or passphrase+PIN combinations, learn how they work and use them carefully — they act as an extra account layer but also increase recovery complexity.
  5. Update firmware only via Ledger Live. Firmware updates include security improvements and should be installed when released. Verify updates inside official Ledger apps only.
Important: Ledger will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase. If anyone — even support — asks for it, it is a scam. Your recovery phrase is for your eyes only.

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Q: I lost my recovery sheet — what do I do?

A: If you still have access to the device and its PIN, create a new wallet and transfer funds, then back up the new recovery phrase. If you cannot access the device, recovery phrase is the only way to restore funds — without it, recovery is impossible.

Q: Can I store the phrase digitally?

A: Strongly avoid this. Digital copies (photos, cloud, notes) are vulnerable to theft. Use offline backups only.

Q: Is Ledger Live required?

A: Ledger Live is the recommended management app — it provides firmware updates, app installs, and a user-friendly dashboard. Advanced users may use third-party wallets that support Ledger devices, but only after verifying compatibility and security.