Ledger Start — Quick Guide to Setting Up Your Ledger Device

This page is a simple, plain-language guide to help you through Ledger’s “Start” flow — the official place to download Ledger Wallet apps and begin using a Ledger hardware device. The instructions below focus on safety, the exact steps you’ll see, and what to do after setup so you can manage crypto with confidence.

Quick fact: Ledger’s Start page is the official download and setup hub for Ledger Wallet apps (desktop and mobile) and points you toward device setup and resources. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

What you’ll need before you begin

A Ledger hardware device (Ledger Nano S / X / Stax / Gen5 or similar).
A computer or smartphone and a USB cable (or Bluetooth for supported models).
A safe, private place to write down your recovery phrase — do not store it digitally.
Access to the official Ledger download page (use links on Ledger’s Start page to avoid fakes). :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Step-by-step: Download and prepare

Open Ledger Start: Visit the official page to download Ledger Wallet for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android — the Start hub lists the correct download for each platform. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Install the app: Run the downloaded installer (desktop) or install from the official app store (mobile). Only use the links provided on Ledger’s Start page to avoid impostor downloads. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Connect your device: Plug in your Ledger device or pair via Bluetooth if supported. Follow the on-screen prompts in the Ledger app and on the device itself.
Create or recover a wallet: Choose “Set up as new device” to create a fresh wallet or “Restore from recovery phrase” to recover an existing wallet. Your device will display a recovery phrase — write it down carefully and store it offline.
Verify and finish: Confirm the seed words on the device when prompted. Install any recommended firmware updates and then install apps for the coins you plan to use through the Ledger application manager.

Safety and best practices (short & essential)

Ledger devices keep your private keys offline and require physical confirmation on the device to sign transactions. Always verify the address and amount on the device screen before approving any transaction — never rely only on what the computer shows. Use the official Ledger Wallet app you downloaded from the Start page. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Supported assets and apps

Ledger devices and the Ledger Wallet app support a wide range of cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and many tokens). The Start/download hub links to the compatible wallet applications and detailed support pages so you can add the right apps for the coins you hold. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

After setup: practical next steps

Install coin apps: In the Ledger Wallet app, install the apps for each blockchain you plan to use.
Create accounts: Open accounts for each coin and receive a small test transaction first to confirm everything works.
Backup and store the recovery phrase: The recovery phrase is the only backup — keep it offline and split between secure locations if needed.
Enable additional protections: Use the device PIN, check firmware notices, and review Ledger Academy resources for ongoing safety tips. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

Where to get help

If you run into issues, Ledger’s Start hub links to support resources, downloads, and official documentation. If you suspect a problem or compromise, stop and consult Ledger’s support pages before proceeding. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

Disclaimer: This guide is educational and simplified for clarity. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by Ledger SAS. Always download software from Ledger’s official Start page and follow Ledger’s official documentation for device-specific instructions. Crypto assets are volatile and involve risk; this is not financial advice.