Your Ledger Awaits: Let's Get Started

Welcome to Ledger.com/start, the official beginning of your journey toward unparalleled cryptocurrency security. You've chosen to take control, and we're here to ensure your first experience with your Ledger hardware wallet is both empowering and straightforward. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to activate your Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax, transforming it from a device into your personal fortress for digital assets.

Unboxing and Preparing for Setup

Before we begin, let's create an ideal setup environment. Find a quiet space with a stable computer and a clean work surface. Open your Ledger box and confirm you have the device itself, the original USB cable, and your recovery phrase sheets. This initial organization is the first step in cultivating a security-first mindset. Using only the included accessories guarantees compatibility and safety.

Step 1: Installing Ledger Live – Your Cryptographic Command Center

Your Ledger hardware wallet is your secure vault, and Ledger Live is the application that lets you view and manage what's inside. They are a powerful, inseparable pair.

  • Download with Confidence: Navigate to the official Ledger website to download the Ledger Live application. This is a critical security step—always verify you are on the genuine Ledger.com domain to avoid malicious software.
  • Install with Ease: Run the installer and follow the simple on-screen instructions. Once installed, launch Ledger Live. The application will welcome you and prompt you to get started.

Step 2: Configuring Your Hardware Wallet

Now, let's bring your physical device to life and personalize its security settings.

  1. Connect and Initialize: Plug your Ledger device into your computer using the supplied cable. You will see a welcome message. Use the buttons to navigate. When prompted, select "Set up as new device."
  2. Create Your Personal PIN: Your device will now ask you to choose a PIN code. This code is the first line of defense, physically locking your device. Select a code you will remember but that is not easily guessable. You will be required to confirm it to ensure accuracy.

Step 3: Preserving Your Recovery Phrase – The Key to Your Kingdom

This is the single most important part of your setup. Your 24-word recovery phrase is a master key that can restore access to all your cryptocurrencies on any compatible wallet. Your Ledder device generates this phrase in a completely offline, secure environment.

  • Manual Transcription is Mandatory: Your device will display a list of 24 words, one by one. Write each word legibly and in the exact order it appears onto your provided recovery sheet.
  • The Non-Negotiable Rules of Security:
    • No Digital Copies: Never take a photo, type it into a file, or store it in the cloud. Digital storage is vulnerable to hackers.
    • Total Confidentiality: This phrase is for you alone. No legitimate service, including Ledger Support, will ever ask for it.
    • Secure Physical Storage: Treat the sheet like a priceless document. A fireproof safe or a safety deposit box is highly recommended. Creating a duplicate copy for a separate secure location is a wise precaution.

Step 4: Completing the Setup and Taking Control

With your recovery phrase safely recorded, you are almost ready.

  1. Finalize Connection: Ledger Live will now guide you through the final steps to connect and authenticate your device.
  2. Add Asset Applications: Navigate to the "My Ledger" section within the app. Here, you can install the small applications needed to manage different cryptocurrencies (e.g., Bitcoin, Solana, Polkadot). Your coins remain on the blockchain; these apps let your device interact with them.
  3. Create Accounts and Transact: After installing an app, you can create a corresponding account in the "Accounts" tab. To receive funds, use the 'Receive' function, which will ask you to verify the address on your device's screen—a powerful feature that prevents address-malware from stealing your assets.

Welcome to Self-Custody

Congratulations! You have successfully navigated Ledger.com/start. You are now the true custodian of your financial future. Your crypto assets are protected by state-of-the-art security, giving you independence and profound peace of mind.