Ledger Start — Securely Begin Your Crypto Journey
The **Official Site** guide for setting up your **Ledger Nano X** or **Ledger Nano S Plus** and mastering **cold storage security**.
The **Official Site** guide for setting up your **Ledger Nano X** or **Ledger Nano S Plus** and mastering **cold storage security**.
Welcome to the world of true asset ownership. By choosing a **Ledger hardware wallet**, you are moving beyond the risks of online exchanges and software vulnerabilities. This is your definitive guide to understanding, setting up, and mastering the **Ledger Nano** device and the **Ledger Live** application.
Your **Ledger hardware wallet** is a state-of-the-art security device. It is often referred to as **cold storage** because it keeps the critical element—your **private keys**—completely offline. The Secure Element chip inside your device is similar to those used in passports and credit cards, making it resistant to physical and cyber attacks. The simple fact is: if your **private keys** are safe, your crypto is safe. And with **Ledger**, they are secured by the strongest technology available.
Follow these meticulously detailed steps to ensure your device is initialized securely. Remember, rushing the setup is the biggest risk to your **crypto security**.
Open your official **Ledger Nano** package. Verify the contents match the packing list. Crucially, download the official **Ledger Live** application only from the **Official Site** or verified app stores. The first time you connect your device, **Ledger Live** performs a genuine check to confirm the device is authentic and hasn't been tampered with. This validation is a cornerstone of **Ledger**’s trust model.
Your device will prompt you to choose a **PIN code** (4 to 8 digits). Use the buttons on your **Ledger Nano** to select your digits. This PIN protects physical access to your device. If you enter the PIN incorrectly three times, the device automatically wipes itself, requiring you to use your **Recovery Phrase** to restore your funds. Choose a memorable but non-obvious combination.
The **Ledger Nano** screen will display 24 words in a specific sequence. Write each word down carefully. The order matters. After writing, the device will ask you to confirm a few random words. This step ensures you have correctly recorded the phrase. Store this paper backup in two separate, safe, and private locations, protected from fire and water.
The **24-word recovery phrase** adheres to the BIP-39 standard, an industry-wide protocol. If you ever lose or break your **Ledger device**, this phrase is what allows you to restore access to your **Bitcoin**, **Ethereum**, and all other assets on any compatible **hardware wallet**.
After setup, use the Manager section in **Ledger Live** to update the **firmware** (always a recommended security step). Then, install the applications for the specific cryptocurrencies you wish to manage. For example, to hold **Bitcoin**, install the Bitcoin application. The app size limits depend on your specific **Ledger Nano** model, but your funds remain safe even if you uninstall an app—the **Recovery Phrase** holds the keys.
The **Ledger Live** application provides a secure and unified interface for all your assets, allowing you to check balances, send, receive, and interact with the decentralized finance (DeFi) world securely.
To receive funds, navigate to the "Receive" section in **Ledger Live**, select the desired account (e.g., **Bitcoin**), and then connect and unlock your **Ledger device**. **CRITICALLY:** The application will display an address. You must **verify this address** on the screen of your **Ledger Nano** device. Only trust the address shown on the trusted, tamper-proof screen of the **hardware wallet** itself. If the addresses do not match, **DO NOT** proceed, and contact support immediately.
This is where the power of the **hardware wallet** shines. When you initiate a "Send" transaction in **Ledger Live**:
**Ledger Live** offers integrated services to manage your crypto portfolio more efficiently:
Securing your **crypto journey** is an ongoing process. Adopt these advanced practices for ultimate protection.
While the **24-word recovery phrase** is the ultimate backup, Ledger also offers **Ledger Recover**, an optional subscription service. This service securely backs up an encrypted version of your phrase, distributing it among shard custodians. This is an extra layer of protection against physical loss or damage to your paper backup, giving users redundancy without compromising the core principle of **cold storage** security.
Scammers target **hardware wallet** users with increasing sophistication. Remember the following rules to maintain your **crypto security**:
If you encounter connection issues or transaction delays, first ensure:
If problems persist, the **Official Site** support portal at **Ledger.com/Start** offers detailed guides and contact options.
You have now completed the comprehensive guide to securely starting with your **Ledger hardware wallet**. By embracing this level of **crypto security**, you take your place among the most secure **Bitcoin** and **Ethereum** holders in the world. Continue learning, stay vigilant, and enjoy true financial sovereignty.
Visit the Official Support Center**Ledger Start** | **Official Site** | Your most secure step into the future of finance.
© 2025 Ledger SAS. All trademarks and registered marks are the property of their respective owners. Content is for informational purposes only. Always verify all security steps directly on your **Ledger Nano hardware wallet** screen.