Lèdger.com/Start® — Getting™ Started | Ledger®

Lèdger.com/Start® — Getting™ Started | Ledger®

Welcome to the official Ledger® guide for getting started with your hardware wallet. Ledger® has become a trusted solution for securely storing cryptocurrencies, offering users full control over their digital assets. This guide will walk you through every step, from unboxing your device to managing your assets safely. Whether you are new to crypto or switching from another wallet, this guide ensures a smooth and secure experience.

1. Introduction to Ledger®

Ledger® hardware wallets are designed to provide top-level security for cryptocurrencies. Unlike software wallets or exchanges, a hardware wallet stores your private keys offline, making it almost impossible for hackers to access your funds. The Ledger ecosystem includes devices like Ledger Nano S Plus® and Ledger Nano X®, as well as the Ledger Live® application for managing assets.

Key benefits of Ledger® include:

• Security: Private keys never leave the device.
• Compatibility: Works with hundreds of cryptocurrencies and blockchain networks.
• User Control: Full ownership of your funds.
• Ease of Use: Simple setup and intuitive Ledger Live interface.

2. Unboxing Your Ledger® Device

When you receive your Ledger device, ensure the packaging is sealed and intact. Ledger emphasizes physical security as much as digital security, and tampered packaging can indicate potential compromise. Inside the box, you should find:

• Ledger device (Nano X® or Nano S Plus®)
• USB cable
• Keychain or lanyard (for Nano X®)
• Recovery sheet
• Instructions card

Check that all components are present. Do not plug in the device before verifying its authenticity. Ledger devices come pre-installed with genuine firmware, and any modifications could compromise security.

3. Setting Up Your Ledger Device

Step 1: Connect Your Device

• Connect the Ledger device to your computer or smartphone using the provided USB cable or Bluetooth (Nano X® only).
• The device screen should power on, displaying a welcome message.

Step 2: Install Ledger Live

• Download the official Ledger Live® application from Lèdger.com/start.
• Ledger Live is available for Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android.
• Never download Ledger Live from third-party websites to avoid malware risks.

Step 3: Initialize Your Device

• Choose "Set up as new device" on the Ledger screen.
• Create a PIN code of 4–8 digits. This PIN secures your device against unauthorized access.
• Confirm your PIN by entering it twice on the device.

Step 4: Backup Your Recovery Phrase

• Ledger will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. Write it down exactly as shown on the provided recovery sheet.
• Important: Never store your recovery phrase digitally or share it with anyone.
• Confirm the recovery phrase by entering selected words on the device.

4. Installing Apps on Ledger Device

Ledger devices use a modular system called apps to support different cryptocurrencies.

Step 1: Open Ledger Live

• Go to the Manager tab in Ledger Live.
• Connect your Ledger device and allow Ledger Live to access it.

Step 2: Install Cryptocurrency Apps

• Browse available apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.).
• Click Install to add them to your device.
• Each app uses space on the device; you can install and uninstall apps as needed without losing funds.

Step 3: Open Apps

• On the Ledger device, navigate to the installed app and press both buttons to open it.
• The device is now ready to interact with the blockchain for that asset.

5. Adding Accounts in Ledger Live

Ledger Live acts as the hub for managing multiple accounts and transactions.

Step 1: Add an Account

• Open Ledger Live, go to the Accounts tab, and click Add Account.
• Select the cryptocurrency and follow the on-screen instructions.
• Ledger Live will scan the blockchain to link your hardware wallet account.

Step 2: View Balances

• Once accounts are added, Ledger Live shows balances, transaction history, and portfolio performance.

Step 3: Customize Accounts

• You can rename accounts, categorize assets, and organize your portfolio.

6. Sending and Receiving Cryptocurrency

Receiving Funds

1. Open the account in Ledger Live.
2. Click Receive.
3. Verify the address on your Ledger device.
4. Share the address with the sender. Always double-check the address on the device before receiving.

Sending Funds

1. Open the account in Ledger Live.
2. Click Send, enter the recipient address and amount.
3. Verify transaction details on your Ledger device.
4. Confirm to broadcast the transaction.

Ledger ensures that all transactions must be confirmed physically on the device, adding a strong layer of security against malware.

7. Security Best Practices

To maximize your Ledger device security:

• Never share your recovery phrase. Anyone with access can steal your assets.
• Keep your device firmware updated. Ledger regularly releases security improvements.
• Verify addresses carefully. Ledger Live and the device screen should match.
• Use passphrases for extra security. Advanced users can create additional hidden wallets with a passphrase.

8. Ledger Nano X® vs. Ledger Nano S Plus®

Ledger offers two main devices:

Both devices provide the same level of security, but Nano X® is better for users who want mobile management or multiple apps installed simultaneously.

9. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Device Not Recognized

• Check USB connections.
• Ensure Ledger Live is updated.
• Try a different computer or cable.

App Installation Fails

• Confirm device firmware is up to date.
• Ensure there is sufficient storage on the device.

Forgotten PIN

• Use your 24-word recovery phrase to reset the device.
• Never attempt to guess repeatedly; the device will reset after multiple wrong attempts.

10. Advanced Features

Ledger devices offer advanced options for power users:

• Staking: Earn rewards on certain cryptocurrencies directly via Ledger Live.
• DeFi Access: Connect your device to decentralized finance platforms safely.
• NFT Management: Store, view, and send NFTs securely.
• Multiple Wallets: Use passphrase-protected wallets to create hidden accounts for privacy.

11. Ledger Live Mobile vs. Desktop

• Mobile: Manage assets on-the-go, send and receive crypto via Bluetooth (Nano X®) or USB.
• Desktop: Full-featured interface for portfolio overview, software updates, and device management.
• Both apps sync with the hardware wallet for full security.

12. Keeping Your Crypto Safe

Ledger emphasizes ownership and responsibility:

1. Your private keys never leave the device.
2. Only you can access funds with your recovery phrase.
3. Avoid phishing links and unverified apps claiming Ledger support.
4. Use official Ledger resources for help and updates.

Following these steps ensures your cryptocurrency holdings remain secure in any environment.

13. Customer Support & Resources

Ledger provides extensive resources:

• Official Support: Ledger.com/support
• User Guides: Step-by-step tutorials for setup, transactions, and advanced features.
• Community: Access forums and FAQs for troubleshooting.

Ledger’s support team ensures safe, verified solutions for any issue with your device.

14. Conclusion

Getting started with Lèdger.com/Start® is straightforward but requires careful attention to security. By following this guide:

• You understand how to unbox, set up, and secure your device.
• You can manage multiple cryptocurrencies safely via Ledger Live.
• You are equipped to explore advanced features like staking, NFTs, and DeFi while keeping your assets secure.

Ledger empowers users to take full control of their digital assets. Proper setup and ongoing security awareness are the keys to a safe cryptocurrency experience.